Time to Say Goodbye

Somehow I can’t help thinking of that line from the wonderful duet by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman. It is, after all, the last day of 2011 and I am saying goodbye to the year.

It’s been a momentous year full of forward movement, even though I feel like I’m engaged in many things that do not yet come together in any sensible way. But I don’t care too much about it all making sense at this point. No. Right now I’m just happy that I get to do things I enjoy.

What Went Well
My main goal in 2011 was to advance in the Creative Arts. I got back into painting and was also able to focus on writing: blogging on social and political issues as well as poetry. I’ve made significant progress on my 2nd poetry book, even though it’s not done yet (as I hoped it would be) and completed two children’s books. Now to get them published.

I got back into singing on a more serious level than I’d even hoped for and I’m on well my way to performing those jazz solos. That has been so incredibly fun. I joined a small group of thespians and I’m brushing up on my acting skills. I’m working on my first ever Spoken Word piece. So excited about that!

I held a book reading in Austin. It was a fun night with friends and the talented and highly entertaining Johanna McLendon as the musical act for the night. I also put together a 2nd Bringing Sexy Back relationship seminar, which was just as successful as the first. My greatest joy was to see some friends take their relationship to the next level and get married. Hooray!

What Didn’t
A couple of business ideas didn’t take off as I’d hoped, due to unforeseen obstacles. Maybe 2012 is the year they come to life. I also wasn’t able to host my 3rd annual Firefly, an event that celebrates all kinds of talent/creativity. I love celebrating people! Five of my planned book readings fell by the wayside–there just wasn’t a fitting time and place for them.

Unexpected Fun
I relocated to Los Angeles about halfway into the year and was able to find community relatively quickly in different parts of the city. I subscribe to the adage he who wants to have friends must himself be friendly, and it works! I have made wonderful friends in the city who inspire me in such wonderful directions, especially in regard to creativity and social justice.

Looking Ahead
What does 2012 hold for me? I don’t quite know, but I’m excited about the next couple of years. I feel like I’m building something significant that will enable me to leave a legacy. That’s why I really like Beyoncé’s new song, I Was Here. When I know what it looks like–this thing that I’m building–I will let you know. Until then, let’s just be fully present in the here and now, savoring every moment and thanking God for life.

What are your thoughts on 2011?

Advertisement