Minutes To Midnight

I can't say much about my New Year's Eve this year, only that it isn't exactly (or even a little bit) like I had planned it to be.

This night has never been a happy one for me, and being the eternal optimist that I am, it's hard for me to admit that.

Tonight, although skewed in plan, is clear in purpose, and has given me the gift of a broadened perspective (and you know there's nothing I love more than perspective). In short, I have been reminded of all the reasons I have to be nothing but abundantly thankful for all that I have.

We are adamant in our ritual to reflect on this night, and the changing of the calendar has come to symbolize more than the beginning of a new day, month, or even year.

Our western society permits us the hyper notion that THIS year, THIS new calendar may provide us opportunities which surpass all those of years past. It is a time when we ponder the possibilities, whether positive or negative, of the twelve months to come.

2012 wasn't without its ups and downs, as I'm sure was the case for all of us, but given how I've found myself spending the last few hours of this now aged year, I can't say that the downs matter even a little. Spare of course, the lessons they so graciously taught.

This year I took risks and seized opportunities, I made one of the most difficult decisions of my years, and in turn I tasted the sweetness of my very own life again. I bought my first new car, took my first motorcycle ride, owned (and regretfully laid to a peaceful rest) my first pet, spent a day on a lake, and saw The Boss in concert.

I cried harder than I ever have, and found the deepest meaning in the worst sorrow.
I laughed with my whole heart, and loved with it, too. I nourished my soul with knowledge, experience, wonderful people, and a glass or two of Pinot.

I wouldn't change any of it, because there's nothing more precious and substantial than when life unfolds, unhindered, exactly as it is supposed to.

I wish the very best for all of you in 2013, and by the best, I mean laughter and tears, good times and bad, because life needs a healthy fusion of everything it can offer to be the very best it can be.

Wishing you lots of love with minutes to midnight,

A Fabulous State