2024: Reflections on a Year Well Lived
By Susan Hunt-Bradford
Every December 31 before midnight, I reflect upon the year since January 1. I’m happy that my reflections are always more positive than negative, with an overabundance of unforgettable memories and uplifting moments. I need to learn not to be sad or upset by the moments that didn’t go as planned because it all works out in the end. 2024 has been no exception.
This year has had its share of ups and downs, but there has been more joy than sorrow, and it’s been another well-lived year. I’ve learned more about myself through the challenges of selling a house, decluttering 21 years’ worth of memories, and moving to a new place. A health scare with my son made me grateful for the urgent care team that said to get to the ER right away. He is fine now, but there were a few scary days. On the downside Mike McGinnis, a friend of 20 years passed away, and I regret not visiting him more often. I need to take more time to visit with friends.
I’ve seen throughout the year that there is a plan for my life and not to sweat the small stuff. I wish I were better in trusting this plan. Sometimes, I get wigged out when things aren’t happening on my timeline, but everything that I worried about this year, sometimes at 2 and 3 am, has worked out. For the new year, I hope to be more trusting that things will work out in my favor and not lose sleep over it. But I am human. And I will do better.
I hope everyone has the kind of holiday they are hoping for, whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Boxing Day (a little shout-out to my Canadian relatives), or any other celebration. My wish is that it’s your best one yet, with many more to come.
For those who might feel like they have little to celebrate, I pray that you find peace and comfort and know that I and many others care a lot about you. I genuinely believe there are more good people in the world than bad. If you are alone or lonely, there are many of us you can reach out to for support and love. Don’t let social media or anyone else make you think that there isn’t good in the world and that people don’t care because that is false. Look for good people, and you will find them. They are often closer than you think.
May the beauty of the holidays warm your spirit.