Lessons in 2018
TO
think that we only have three days of this year left seems almost unreal, but it is indeed the truth. Time has definitely passed me by, and it seems like only yesterday when I was reflecting on the year that was 2017, in my bedroom, in New York City, where we welcomed 2018, and oh! What a year it has been! Even if I tried, I cannot put into words the surge of emotions and experiences that came about my 2018. While it had its trying moments, it was definitely a rewarding one. It was one of realizations, and one of many lessons learned. And as I continue to strive to live a life of wholehearted gratefulness, here is my attempt to look back at the year that was through five of my biggest learnings.
1. You do not need too much to exist – through two life-changing trips this year, experienced in very different ways – one much more leisurely than the other – I have learned that we only truly need the basics to exist and survive; everything else we have are beautiful extras. We are bountifully blessed on an everyday basis, and gratefulness is about finding the contentment in all of it. Because we could do without the extra clutter at times, and a life of minimalism can indeed be a life of charm and beauty.
2. Being selfless and attempting to live a selfless life does not mean thinking less of yourself, nor giving less to yourself. As much as it is about considering the needs of others, and shelving selfishness aside, we need to consider that at the end of the day, we cannot share a part of ourselves effectively and wholeheartedly with others if we are not whole as an individual.
3. You never really know what others, besides yourself, are going through in an entirety – always watch your words and be cautious with your actions because there will always be more than what meets the eye.
4. Leave an allowance for mistakes – in love, and in life. As much as we may be predisposed to aiming for perfection as human beings, the reality is that in the process, we may unconsciously be setting ourselves up for disappointment. Set high expectations and goals, but do leave room for, and learn from your mistakes. You have to roll with the punches no matter how much, and in what way they may keep coming. In other words, when life gives you lemons, squeeze it dry, and make lemonade!
5. Faith matters. Regardless of your religion. Never loose touch of it, because it is important, and though these two concepts are oftentimes conflated, religion to me is more connected with norms and customs, while faith will always be a more personal connection to oneself and a deeper relationship with a deity. It is the latter that will keep you going in your most trying of times, and most questionable moments.
Reflecting upon what it is you’ve learned over a period of time is a great way to train yourself to find the silver lining in any and all situations, and I always feel that the end of the year is a great time to do that. Although at times you may feel that none of your learnings are new and may seem redundant, a re-affirmation sometimes matters just as much. I hope you all had a meaningful Christmas celebration with your nearest and dearest, and in whatever way you choose to spend the rest of your holidays, that your year ends with a full heart, and that 2019 is met with optimism and a brand new start!