“A happy New Year! Grant that I
May bring no tear to any eye
When this New Year in time shall end
Let it be said I've played the friend,
Have lived and loved and labored here,
And made of it a happy year.”
Edgar Guest
2011
There was a time when I quaked at the thought of 1984, due to my extensive reading. Now I am amazed that all of the projected futuristic buildings and clothing are not here! Silently glad – because I am now too old to enjoy the fashion and minimalistic housing described in a lot of the fiction.
Another year – and the first year of really being retired – not just on a sabbatical from teaching – but done!
I’ve been avoiding really dealing with it until recently – and find it is not as painful an admission as I would have thought. I can admit to being a people-pleaser – and an overachiever – and all the other things that made me busy for 20 out of every 24 hours. Now, I am beginning to realize that I do not have to be busy- I can do nothing and I am still doing something- because I am back to thinking and listening and trying to make sense of things around me. I am not back to a contemplative state – and probably won’t get there for a long time – but I am far from the madding crowd. I cannot believe that I inwardly thought I would once again dive into all the same activity. The daily tasks are pretty tiring as it is.
So, for 2011 – I look forward to becoming more like I am- rather than who I could be – living for the moment and experiencing it with an open heart – not worried about yesterday or tomorrow.
I wish all I love, much peace, love and happiness for their new year! May the blessings come to you, who you are ready to receive them!
