As the year draws to an end, you can be sure that people find the need to reflect on the year; how it has been so far. The achievements, failures, proud moments, disappointments, growth, and so on. Depends on how the year went for one, these reflections present different results, and perhaps a necessary preparation for the next year, which at this point is just a few days away.
I look at how far the year has come and there's much to say about this particular year. Physically, there's been a lot of effort and struggles, and even when you go online, there are a bunch of complaints and struggles as well. Sometimes, all these are capped in comedy and humour. Maybe that's something that has helped us in this part of the world.
The reflections that we make could present realities that leave one in disappointment and a feeling of unsatisfaction or inadequacy, but something I've learnt is to be grateful. Yes, grateful no matter what. You know why? Because there's always a reason to be grateful; when you look back and see how far or little you have come. Even if it doesn't look evident enough, being alive is a reason to be grateful.
Yes, it's something people say, and it kind of looks normal. However, I'm not coming from that lane. I've seen many reasons to be grateful for life; everything inside. Also, and more importantly, reasons to be grateful to God. I know and I've seen how much He has helped me through the year. It wasn't an easy year, but I've seen Him in the equation, and as I reflect, I consider this deeply.
I know there were things I planned to achieve that didn't come through. But I look back and I see that I've achieved some I hoped to or didn't even plan. One reason for such gratitude as I reflect is how I've achieved growth, experience and rewards in my skill. This year is one that I'll say I've engaged this skill of a graphic designer well. The privilege to work for and with different organisations/brands has been wonderful.
One of the best moments of the year as I count and reflect is the act of compassion and kindness shown to others that I was part of. Earlier this year, we embarked on a visit as a group to an orphanage home, which features as a school as well. It was great doing that, and one of the best things from this year for me. Seeing the joy and excitement on their faces, and the hope it brought them was worth it.
We're in the Christmas season. As I've said in other posts, Christmas should be about the saviour who was born into the world to redeem mankind to God and also about the message of love He preached and exemplified. My reflections on this are a reminder and maybe an alarm to show love to another while we celebrate the birth of Jesus in a way that pleases Him.
As we hope for a new year, I must say that recognising the positive things doesn't take away the disappointments and failures I experienced. And as I call these things to mind, I see that I've been able to survive such moments through the empowering help of God. Also, for the lessons I've learnt through great people and friends to keep on keeping on.
Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Images are mine.
