Sunday, December 11, 2011

12 Days of Reflection

An old work colleague, Kim, posed the challenge to reflect on the passing year by focusing on a refelction suggestion each day for the next 12 days.  I'm excited to engage.  Here is the first of the 12:

 
If you can give a name to 2011 what would it be and what would you name 2012?

I'm tempted to give 2011 a really funky name since it was the 3rd year in a row my employer did not give out raises and the 2nd they reduced pay (one day of furlough the first year and 2 days in 2011).  I was promised a promotion that never materialized and have grown fatter, despite my conviction to become thinner.  My 86 year-old mom had a stroke and became totally dependent upon me.  It looked pretty bad all the way around.
But, what I know is that 2011 was what I made it, funky circumstance and all.  If anything, 2011 was my year of learning to take responsibility for my life.  I started to have the sneaky suspicion that I was standing in my own way.  Yes, difficulties were showing up and lots of them.  Anyone who knows or is a single mom understands what I mean.  Life is tough for all of us but, a woman on her own (no child support, no weekends at Dad's, no protector or confidant) has a battle everyday.  And, that reality kept me feeling sorry for myself.

At least, until I began to hear the whispers in my head that said "change the way you see your Life and you'll change your life".

So, just before my birthday, I made an appointment with a therapist, saw my internist and recommitted to my own happiness.  Each feels like a big move.

To 2011, I name you the Year of Self-Reflection.  As for 2012, I believe it will be the Year of Claiming My Good.

Be well and in joy.



1 comment:

Hope said...

I hope you have been well.. seems like we pass each other with out really ever being able to connect..
think of you often..and wonder where you are.. how you are.. just know you are thought of by old friends.. soft hugs