It is a new year. Many times in the past, I have resolved to make changes or have chosen a word to help lead the way. This year I am doing something a little different. This year instead of looking at what I might need to change or improve on, I am looking at what is good. I am looking back and celebrating the growth I have experienced this last decade. I am looking at who I was when I started last year and who I am today and celebrating the growth and wholeness that I have experienced.

Do not misunderstand; I know that I am not done growing and that there are shadow selves that I still need to face. However, I want to spend some time loving what is. I want to rejoice in what I have accomplished.

I am not looking back- I am bringing and welcoming the goodness that I have cultivated in the past into the future. Instead of always looking at what is wrong or what can be improved, I want to spend some time celebrating what I have developed.

So, I will look at what I have done that has given me life and has given life to others. I will look back and remember what brings me joy and cultivate more of that joy in my life this year. I will look and see what areas I have grown in and celebrate those and grow into those areas more.

And, of course, John O’Donohue has a blessing for you and for me. –

Now is the time to free the heart,
Let all intentions and worries stop,
Free the joy inside the self,
Awaken to the wonder of your life.

Open your eyes and see the friends,
Whose hearts recognize your face as kin,
Those whose kindness watchful and near,
Encouraging you to live everything here.

See the gifts the years have given,
Things your effort could never earn,
The health to enjoy who you want to be
And the mind to mirror mystery.

My friend Melissa has some thoughts on beginning again on her beautiful blog.  Follow this link to read more.