1/2/18

Have you logged into tumblr lately?
Yesterday, in the spirit of the new year, I posted my expression of a more personal challenge I am currently processing and letting go of; Making room for growth and prosperity.

Today we got some too-good-to-be-true news.
My grandfather will undergo 5 radiation treatments in a row next week. And, should that all go smoothly, that's it! Because we caught this tumor in time, there is less than 1% chance of complications or side affects. Furthermore, there's a 75-80% chance that this will be the last we see of this cancer.

After these two intense weeks, we just have to monitor him routinely to ensure we keep the disease at bay. Of course, he is still not in the best shape, and will require much attention. Our primary concern will become keeping his heart and kidneys in stable condition. And I feel fortunate that we can return to focusing our attention on these issues without the added anxiety.

I'm beyond tired, and I'm not ready to get too comfortable with this one piece of consolation. But I am grateful for the relief I felt this afternoon.

The last two years have been exceedingly difficult. I have been dished every imaginable obstacle. I experienced so much loss and change. My relationships have become strained and suffered. But I'm not going to dispose of 2017 in that light.

These last two years have also presented me with opportunity beyond my wildest dreams. I traveled around the country more times than I can count, through all weather, by myself. I visited exotic landscapes and cities that were foreign to me. I nourished and fortified personal and collaborative relationships. I nourished and fortified my relationship with myself, during long periods of isolation.

I worked with some of the most revered icons of this industry. I finished two book projects, and am working on a third. Most importantly, my obstacles forced me to improvise and focus. My adversity taught me what I am and am not willing to tolerate. It taught me to be more bold, but also more graceful about falling. I learned more about my goals, and what I need to let go of, and what I need to build, in order to achieve them.

Finally, this last year in particular, I some how garnered this little community, to which you belong. I couldn't be more grateful to know each of you, to have worked with you, and to have your genuine support so that I can share some of the most integral pieces of my expressive self with you. Thank you.

What are your highlights/reflections on 2017? Aspirations for 2018?