This post is the last of 2017. As the year ends, I realized that I've been looking forward much more than looking back. This comes more naturally to me, especially as regards accomplishments. But as most do on the last day of the year, I've done some reflecting on 2017 today.
The year was filled with many firsts as a writer: I completed two manuscripts and several poems, submitted my work over ten times and received as many rejections, started blogging, created a website and a writer's Facebook page—I'm even on Twitter (check out my one and only post sometime, haha). It was an exciting year and although it ended with a final rejection of my short story, The Daughter of She Who Sings, I'm grateful. I can't change the past; I can be proud or regretful but no matter what happened, I can't change it. Looking forward is easier. Dreaming is more fun. Planning invigorates. I'm motivated and inspired to make 2018 a year of further growth as a writer.
In 2018, I will have a lot on my plate. I begin school in one week to become a certified makeup artist, esthetician, and lash stylist, I work from home for a real estate agency, I am helping an older horse get back into shape after being neglected, and not least of all, I have a beautiful family who is growing and changing quickly. If I'm not careful, I'll blink and my days with my two boys will be no more than a distant memory. My older son told me that he wants to spend more time with me in 2018. He feels that, though we are a close family unit, he did more with his father in 2017. He might be right. I only have so many minutes with these two little men; I've got to treasure every.single.second. If time won't slow down, then I'll have to. Thankfully, my husband is and has been incredibly supportive of my endeavors.
More and more, we are blending as a couple. This is nothing short of a small miracle. I always hoped but never thought I'd see the day (yes, it was looking dire at times!). We are so different and stubborn in those differences. I've loved him like crazy from day one, which is why I'm looking forward to strengthening our relationship in the coming year.
But only one thing can be my top priority in 2018. My relationship with Jesus who is the only way, the truth, and the life. The only way for me to come to the Father. His passion, His sacrifice, and His perseverance must be at the forefront of my mind as I tackle the year. With Him as my guide, I hope to stay the path I've chosen for 2018 and bring honor to Him in all that I do.
The year 2017 brought some disappointing results and interesting challenges. If I chose to, I could flounder in my misfortune, but I won't, I can't do that. My life is blessed. I am loved. I have all that I need and the future is promising. I choose to be grateful, even when I'm not.
Happy New Year to you all. You, my friends, have been the inspiration for so many of my efforts. I am thankful for you. Pull your loved ones close and as you ring in the new year, I pray you also find the joy in simply being...grateful.
x.o. Rachel