I love New Year’s Eve. Not so much because of the festivity and partying, Christmas is where I really go to town. But because of the chance it gives me to reflect. It’s the time of year when many of us take stock of what has passed and what lies ahead.
As I look back on 2017, I can certainly say that it has been one of the most dramatic. My husband had a heart attack (and survived) at the age of 56, our house was burgled and all my jewellery was stolen and my hair started falling out. I also turned 50 and have put on a stone in weight.
When some of these things happened at the time it seemed like they were the most devastating thing in the world. But as I reflect back, I realise that each one has carried a silver lining.
My husband having a heart attack has made us and our whole family look at our life and our relationships in a different light. We don’t sweat the small stuff and we make sure that we all tell each other that we love each other every day. We also take each day as it comes and count it and each other as a blessing.
The robbery and losing what I considered were most of my valuables, has actually not made me any less happy. Yes, there is sadness because certain things like the ring my late father gave me and other items are irreplaceable, but it doesn’t feel like my life means any less simply because I have less.
My turning 50, losing my hair and putting on a stone are a mixed bag. I consider my age to be something to celebrate because I am immensely proud of who I am today and what I have achieved. My hair falling out is a result of the stress of some of the events of this year and was actually a wake-up call to myself to practise better-self-care and that I also needed to look after myself rather than just focusing on everyone else. Besides, as I have lots of hair, it is not visible, so I choose to focus on being grateful. It really could have been a lot worse.
The stone in weight has been a catalyst for re-framing my mindset around my body and my self. Rather than focusing on beating myself up and setting myself the goal of becoming a stone thinner, why not just focus on making 2018 the best it can possibly be and creating a healthier, stronger and more balanced ME. I’m excited at that prospect.
Life is too short and each day and moment is an opportunity and gift that allows us to shape and choose what and who we want to be. Yes, there are things that happen that are not expected and where we may feel like our lives and situations are beyond our control. But usually those too shall pass.
So, I invite you to take a moment to reflect on 2017 and let go of some of the bad stuff that has happened and look forward to all the exciting and new opportunities what might be. We are the creators of our destiny.
With love and light to you and your loved ones for 2018 and beyond,
Justina xxx