2016 was an active, exciting, productive, joyous year for the many amazing people I am fortunate to have around me. In this year alone, my friends, family and I stood by each other as we:
- forged new friendships, ignited flames that burned brightly but briefly, and fell in love with someone who finally feels right
- got brunch, went to museums, hiked, climbed rock walls, read, watched movies, stayed out late drinking, stayed up late playing board games, laughed, commiserated, and embarked on other adventures
- landed new, fulfilling jobs
- launched business ventures in different countries and from our own homes
- hosted our own successful events and concerts
- contributed to and promoted numerous causes and charities
- traveled across the country and the world—trying new foods, marveling at breathtaking sights, gaining new perspectives, and interacting with so many kind and interesting people
- got engaged and married
- developed new passions and rediscovered old ones
- poured heart and soul into art, music, writing, crafting, baking, building, and communities
If you think this post is about you, you’re probably right! I don’t say this enough, but I am deeply proud and appreciative of everyone’s achievements, whether they may seem big or small. We all have so many different interests and work on so many cool things.
I have seen many complaints and lamentations on social media this year. Celebrities, innovators, and influencers passed away. Human rights were violated domestically and internationally. Truth has become a matter of opinion, science has been dismissed as conspiracies, and personal entitlement has taken top priority.
It’s easy to get lost in the chaos and forget to embrace the positives. The Internet is a wondrous platform for education and awareness, but it can also lead to dangerous misinformation, a mob mentality, and an overwhelming feeling of hopelessness.
Never forget to strive for progress and to be the best possible version of yourself. Here’s to more hope, cool things, and fighting the good fight in 2017.
lunarsine 