Don't Look Back

Year end manifesto

2006 was one of the most challenging years of my life. Finishing University and the thought of being released into the real world was exciting, but a little bit scary at the same time. However, I knew that I wasn’t going through this process alone, and I am so thankful to be blessed with friends who have supported me, and held my hand throughout high school, and University. I’m not sure what I would do without them… or who I would call on a sleepless night… We all had our mid 20’s crisis, and although things have somewhat stabilized for some of us, since we are talented and fortunate enough to find jobs in our field… there is still lots to learn, experience and to see. In between finding a job and leaving my old job I’ve also moved, which was and is still an adjustment. It’s amazing the degree of adjustment even when moving 20 km away from home… Lots of “new_____” – so new grocery store, new neighbors, new local bank…

Now that things have leveled off at my new job I’m considering a move next year (yes, I am moving again) – perhaps closer to work so that the commute is a bit shorter. Other things that I want to accomplish next year is really producing quality art. One thing’s for sure, and that’s my intuition. What’s always been so great about me is that I’m fanatical enough to believe in myself at ALL times. At this moment I would say is a bit challenging on some levels of my life. On a career side I don’t think that I could have asked for a better placement than where I am right now, and I adore waking up for work. The people that I work with are smart, kind, and supportive of my career objectives. Financially I will be on more of a budget, since I plan to repay my student loans in 3 years. It’s a bit challenging because having that little bit more could help out with purchasing extras such as canvas and paint so that I could make art. But it’s the reality of life, which really doesn’t stop me from enjoying life – since the smallest things fascinate me. On a more personal and intimate level I’ve been lucky enough (not sure if I’ve been struck by lighting) to meet a wonderful man who has made such an impact on my life in such a short time. He’s taught me how to love selflessly, and that by doing so love would be returned in non-confrontational and rational manner. By demonstrating that he cares everyday in everyway… unconditionally. I’m meeting his parents this Christmas, and he insists on meeting my mom. For the first time I’m engaged in a working relationship… which is a bit scary, but I’m ready to take the chance. I no longer want to drag the past with me as I move forward. I refuse to allow the thought of being mistreated in the past into someone as wonderful as Ken. The last thing I would want is for this relationship to tear down because of the past… So I’m not going to look back. In 2007 I want to look forward… work on living in the precious present moment, and enjoying life with the incredible people that God has blessed me with.