New meaning to a year...

How do we define a year? Is it simply watching the months pass on a calendar? Or is it a daily, even hourly, progression of time? Yes and yes; both are true. A year consists of 365 days, each following the one before it like a duckling following its mother. Each day the sun rises and sets; only the fortunate ones will see it rise again tomorrow. A year is another chunk of time that we can cross off, another number that can be added to our age, and four more seasons that have said hello and goodbye. As I look at this 12-month piece of time that I carry in my past, I realize it is much more than a $12.99 calendar. For once, I can see the progress that has been made in my life; I can see both the natural and guided progression. I can look back over this so-called "year" and see it as more than just a word. And I do. 


When I process the year in my head, one word comes to mind: growth. Mentally, physically...and personally. The personal growth could be measured with a scale, undoubtedly the greatest amount of invisible matter that I have ever possessed individually. And the greatest impact on my life that I have ever experienced. For that reason, any moments of distress become completely worth it in an instant. All struggles turn into steps taken toward progress, and all tears shed become tears of joy. 


Within this year, I saw 365 versions of myself. Each day seemed to bring a new me, or so I felt. Some versions were repeated, and some were seen only once. It's true that one of the most difficult things in life is finding out who you are, and where you are going. Some may never discover either, and that is just fine. If you are one of those people, take my advice and understand that who you really are is yourself...and go wherever the sun shines on you. 


Which is where I'm headed; to a place where the sun is never sheltered by clouds, and the clouds that are seen only serve the purpose of cooling me down. I have discovered that I am only who I am...nothing more, nothing less; I am content with this. Love has shown me a new meaning of itself, and it has taken me to a new realm for the unveiling. My emotions have been tested, with both loneliness and adventurous taking the most of the heat. They can rest for now. 


And although I've done nothing but rest for the past month or so, I feel like I can breathe now better than ever. With my deep breath comes a new minute, a new beginning. The inhale puts a smile on my face and forces me to remember where I've come, and what I've become. As I exhale slowly, I am ridding myself of any pessimistic thoughts or feelings that may have been lurking in the shadows. I am recognizing my new strengths, and kindly setting my weaknesses to the side. 


And as I open my eyes, I see a new life. One that, in only a year's time, has been altered dramatically...for the better.