On this first day of the year of 2017, I find myself looking forward to a year of “new light and blazing trails” as my friend Anna so wonderfully put it. I have an overwhelming sense of hope in my heart. 

    I think it’s because I’ve been to the dark side. I’ve been to a place of hopelessness and in a pit of despair. And let me tell you, the light, the hope, the “good”, is so much better. 

    It’s not always easy, but sometimes it’s necessary to do the work. Make the change. Follow your arrow. If it’s leaving the job you are so miserable at, or making the move to the new city. Ending that relationship that has run its course or starting that journey towards wellness you’ve put off for far too long. In the end, your happiness and overall life’s wellbeing are what matter most. You only get one life to life. It is quite literally your duty to live it fully and to the best of your ability. 

    I know we all still have some adjustments ahead. There are bound to be changes, and transitions that make us all feel a little disjointed and out of place, but as my friend Brunson would say, “the dust will settle and the caged bird will sing again”. Because in times of tragedy there is always triumph. In times of sadness, there is always something to be glad in. After the rain, the sun will always shine. And that’s what hope is about. 

    I hope we can all be a little kinder to each other this year. Even if it’s just with a breath of tolerance. Or a random act of kindness. A hug, a pat on the back or a quick note to express thanks. Don’t post that snarky comment online or better yet, post one of love and kindness. 

    There is a quote in the movie “New Years Eve” that I found especially meaningful last night when I heard it. “The one thing that turns the world from a longing place to a beautiful place…is love. Love and any of it’s forms. Love gives us hope.” 

    I hope this coming year brings you nothing but lots and lots of VERY, VERY GOOD STUFF!