2026… I’m Ready for Whatever You’ve Got
By Susan Hunt-Bradford,
Healthy Planet Publisher
I say this every year, but I truly believe the year ahead will be a good one. So far, I’ve done a fairly decent job predicting how things will unfold — not because life is perfect, but because I choose to believe there’s always something good waiting to be found.
Please don’t mistake this optimism for naïveté. My life isn’t perfect. Like most people, I wish for a little more money, fewer aches and pains, and more free time to enjoy the simple moments. But even with those very real wishes, I still feel lucky — or blessed, or whatever word feels right to you.
When I say I have a lot, I don’t mean things. I mean the basics that truly matter. I have a car, a job, a few good friends, a loving family, and my very best friend who just happens to be a dog. I have food, shelter, and clothing. None of this may sound impressive to anyone else, but it means everything to me.
And here’s something else I’ve learned along the way — I like myself. I genuinely enjoy my own company. I laugh at absolutely nothing, make up words when the right ones escape me, and have a mind that’s endlessly creative, sometimes to a fault. These quirks aren’t flaws; they’re part of what makes this life feel like mine. I like this little life I’ve built, and because of that, I have no reason to believe 2026 won’t be anything but amazing.
I know not everyone can look at life this way. Some people are facing challenges so heavy that finding the positive feels impossible. And for that, my heart aches. Life isn’t fair, and pretending otherwise doesn’t help anyone. But what I’ve learned is that even in unfairness, there can still be moments of light — sometimes small, sometimes fleeting, but real.
As we step into 2026, I’m choosing to carry hope with me. Not the loud, unrealistic kind, but the quiet kind that shows up in everyday moments: a good conversation, a deep breath, a walk with my dog, a laugh that surprises me. I’m choosing gratitude not because everything is perfect, but because there is still so much to appreciate.
So, 2026 — what do you have in store for us? Whatever it is, I’m ready. Ready to meet it with curiosity, resilience, and a whole lot of hope.
I wish everyone a beautiful and peaceful new year.