All Things Considered

2023 is the first year in a long time (since the pre-pandemic days at least) that I haven’t felt that “get me the heck out of here” feeling by the end. Not that it’s a roaring celebration. It’s more of an “I made it this far so keep carrying on” feeling.

I suppose that means it’s been a pretty good year, all things considered.

But all things considered, 2023 hasn’t been without its challenges and crushing losses. I lost someone very close to me this year. I am leaving a few broken hearts behind me this year, including my own. I can’t even look at the news without feeling hopeless in my ability to help my fellow humans in their suffering. So. Much. Darkness.

And yet… all things considered… I made it this far. I feel lighter today than yesterday. The dreariness of December, of the longest and darkest night, and the bittersweet complexity of the holiday season (for those of us who don’t fit into picture perfect Hallmark storylines) is in the rear view.

All things considered…

I’m ending the year feeling more stable, and confident, and balanced than I have in a long time.

I’m ending the year with more passport stamps than I’ve had in a long time, which makes my traveler’s soul very happy.

I’m ending the year with a lot of warm memories, great experiences and new friends.

There are definitely a few things I need to leave behind in 2023, and a few things I need to lean into in 2024.

But right now I’m not worrying too much about the details.