Long Goodbyes

Dear 2010,

I hate long goodbyes.  I avoid goodbyes of any sort when I can.  In actuality I can avoid this one, but I have come to learn that it is good to acknowledge the past in order to better the future.  So for this purpose only do I give you anymore recognition.

Thank you for being better to me than the previous year.  We won’t mention it’s name, but we both know who it was.  You were still pretty harsh on me and my family, but I came to my senses and realized that I had some lessons to learn and you did whatever it took for me to learn them.  I still don’t think you had to be so severe, but whatever.  I am a better person for learning those lessons so I can forgive. 

No hard feelings, right?  I respect you and wish you all the best in the future.  Oh wait.  You have no future.  That sucks.  Well then, I bid you a fond farewell.

With Warmest Regards,

Me

Dear 2011,

I have plans for you.  Your counteryear, 2010, has been gracious enough to teach me some things that have given me strength to kick your butt if I need to.  Unlike the previous Mandi, I am no longer willing to take crap with a smile on my face.  Oh no.  2011 I tell you now that you and I are going to accomplish many things in the next 365 days we have together. 

I see you there, staring me in the face.  And I tell you, Mr. (or Mrs., or Miss, or Ms.)New Year,  I. Am. Ready.  Faithful.

Sincerely,

Mandi (the Powerful)

To all of my friends and family (that would be you dear reader),

Have a happy new year, I wish you much peace.  Inner peace.  I wish you joy.  So much that sometimes a tear may slip down your cheek.  I wish you love.  So that your heart may feel as though it will burst from so much of it.  I wish you contentment.  Enough to fill you even in your darkest hours.  And I wish you strength.  Personal, spiritual, physical, and emotional strength.  Be as good to yourself as you are to others.  Find the good in things because goodness likes to hide and whisper sometimes.  Give yourself a break, and leave judgement to Him.  We all live in glass houses.  Speak kindly.  Smile at strangers.  Keep the door open for the person behind you.  Hug your loved ones longer than normal.  Pray.  To whomever or whatever you choose, but show your gratitude for the things you have been given.  Even the icky parts.  Find three good things for each negative thought you have.  Give to others and learn to be a gracious receiver.  Laugh.  “Life is meant to be enjoyed, not just endured.” ~Gordon B. Hinkley

Now I’m off to play Lite Brite with my 6 year old.  Not something the old Mandi would have done.  But hey, it’s a new year.  I can be a new me, right?

Cheers!

Mandi