Absolution

It is natural to be nostalgic this time of year.  We look back over the events of the past 12 months and make judgements of our experiences - our "year-in-review."  While I see and feel the value in assessing our actions, decisions and results, I have found it can be a way for me to avoid, sabotage, punish and stifle.  Even looking back with fondness can be a way to evade the present by indulging the past.  To quote the Little River Band, "Oh the time we're missing, spending the hours reminiscing."

So I am working today on gleaning the lessons, knowledge and realizations from this past year - enjoying the recollection of fun, heartwarming and gratifying times, and letting go.  If I cling to experiences, whether it be from guilt, remorse or pleasure, I am weighing myself down and lessening my capacity for new experiences.  I cannot be open to receiving all that life has to offer, if I show up with my hands already filled with the gifts of the past.

I am grateful for this past year.  It has been a year of challenge, change, growth, sorrow, love, fun and discovery.  I have had experiences and relationships I wouldn't change for the world.  I have made choices that have caused myself and others pain, and I have shared my gifts in ways that have inspired and uplifted as well.  I am grateful for it all.  But mostly, I am grateful to give myself the gift of absolution.  It is a clean slate, a brand new day.  My arms are empty and wide-open, as is my heart.  I am ready to rock 2012!