last year was a big one... and to summarize, i looked at all of the small things that meant big things along the way. this year is no different. there were a lot of big moments.
a few of those big moments were...
best moment of joy: moments with friends - too many to count - family, babies, and small moments where i was truly happy. though sometimes these moments are taken away, we still have the memories... i play these moments like films in my mind.
hardest moment of pain: my car accident in april, over easter. and the continued uphill battle with my back, as well as the onset of more continued health issues (that had previously given me a break, while my back was healing).
favourite memory of laughter: i spent Mary's entire wedding doubled over (and not in pain!). her and reuben - and all of their friends - make me laugh harder than ever before. i also have memories of laughter with my roommate, new friends (of friends), and with my church friends who i haven't seen forever, and saw for the first time, together, again a few weekends ago. we laughed until we couldn't breathe. now THAT is a good life.
largest lesson learned: the pain won't go away... but the attitude is a changeable factor. my back pain has definitely improved, but one of the largest lessons for me this year - that took quite some time to learn - was that it won't go away. instead, i have to learn to live with the constant shooting pains, and learnt o manage my mood so as to not alienate others.
largest lesson taught: my sister and i had a falling out this year - she had a tough time understanding things with my back, as she was away in Vancouver, and i couldn't understand her lack of empathy. after a long phone conversation many months after it started, we came to an understanding - and i think she became a lot more aware of what it was that was going on in my head. i simply said to her, "i just wanted you to ask, 'how are you' and that would have been enough". that was a big one for both of us.
hardest goodbye: jack layton passed away this year... and though it seems like an insignificant goodbye, it was a huge loss to the political world... as well as Canada, and Toronto on the whole. he was an amazing citizen, who shared my vision that it is our responsibility as part of humanity to do good for others. i reflected on his death here.
favourite hello: when my little sister moved back from BC - after spending almost a year there, during one of the hardest times of my life. also, meeting my 3 new nieces - G, G, and M.
most important movie to me this year: like crazy - for all the things it meant to me, and left me with. though, watching one week (though it didn't come out this year) provided me insight to a few things as well... and some plans for the future.
favourite song of the year: this is a tough one. it always is. i think it would have to be 'no one's going to love you' by band of horses. for many reason's. but mostly because it's complete and utter heartbreaking perfection. with both the good and the bad of love. and we all know that too well...
what memories are you leaving this year with?
(last year's post)
what memories are you leaving this year with?
(last year's post)
