Here Comes 2016, and it’s Alright

We celebrate the New Year, embracing our calendar; a linear concept of time. 2015 is in the rear view mirror. As we all drive into 2016 it’s important to look back and reflect. Lessons learned and memories cherished on the road behind us must be embraced as we keep moving forward. It’s wonderful that we all have things to be thankful for at the close of a year. My social networks have been flurried with those practicing gratitude by stating what they are proud of in the past year.

I can relate. 2015 was an amazing year for me for many different reasons. Aside from a new job and moving to a wonderful area in Jersey City, I’ve made new friends and embraced adulthood with my old ones. I’ve matured spiritually and feel more grounded than I have in the past. I’ve gotten to know myself.

I’ve let go of toxic habits and a deep relationship. I’ve learned the hard way that sometimes people, like sunshine, can be both beautiful and destructive. A sun glare while driving blinds you to potential dangers. You can’t see what harm may come while embracing the warm rays on your face or the depth of disappointment when the sun plays hide and seek between the clouds, leaving the road ahead grey and you wondering if the sky will clear.

I can’t help but chuckle at myself now because I’ve quite literally for the first time in my life have managed to keep and not lose or break a nice pair of sunglasses. Both literally and figuratively speaking we sometimes need to shade the sun for our own protection. Most importantly I forgive myself for being blinded by a light and burned from the warmth of a friend who I gave the undeserved privilege of being my Sun.

Taking a step away from my metaphor, I simply claim to have learned that the understanding of how a person you love approaches life and their own emotions is not a good enough excuse for them treating you any less than you rightfully deserve to be treated. In 2016 I refuse to make excuses for others’ offenses against my own happiness only because I am blinded by the image of the enlightened being they can be. This lesson is the most liberating experience I had in 2015.

As I sit in the car and take a peek at that rear view mirror and keep my eyes focused on the road ahead, I make a promise to myself to enjoy the moment I’m in; to turn my radio up with my favorite songs, roll my windows down, and embrace the ride. There is what’s behind us, and there is the unknown in front of us. What truly matters is to pay attention to the present moment with it’s unexpected twists and turns that can provide thrilling opportunities we never knew we needed or even wanted.

Here’s to 2016, here’s to my 23rd birthday that’s in a few days, and here’s to my continuous journey to be the brightest light guiding my own adventure.