New Year, Big Hopes

January 2, 2013

2013 is upon us and just like everyone else, I’m hoping for a good one.
As the New Year dawns, everyone is making resolutions that are usually out of reach or are easily forgotten. This year, I have chosen to make a much more realistic one, and I would suggest the same for everyone else.
Of course, anything is possible if you put your mind to it, but most people have the mentality that it is just another resolution that is meant to be broken.
Quitting something cold turkey is something that takes a lot of determination and dedication, and for those who really aren’t that determined, that resolution is being wasted. Some set a goal to achieve in the New Year, knowing that it probably won’t happen. So sometimes in order to be proud, people have to set their goals for something that isn’t entirely unachievable.
There is no shame in that, because everyone will be more proud of themselves if they achieve something new.
Every year, things change and grow right before our eyes and I do not feel like 2013 will be any different. I see women outside working alongside their men in the field or in a barn, or driving a big truck and trailer to help get things loaded and hauled. This is something that was almost unheard of, even almost 24 years ago when I was born.
So, today, I am proud of the acceptance of a hard-working woman and the fact that it is now being encouraged and almost expected in today’s society.
With the economy the way it is, I think it is a great thing to see women out getting their hands dirty, and starting their own businesses, and becoming educated so they can help support their families.
There isn’t anything wrong with a girl with a little backbone, and I’m so very thankful for that. That helps me feel comfortable in my shoes, and I’m hoping that other girls feel the same way as they grow up. Being tough isn’t a bad thing, and going home after a long day of hard work and putting on some heels and lipstick will always be something that every girl should be able to do when they feel like it.
The last year has made a lot of people fear the society that we live in, but knowing that we have the freedom to be able to move forward with our everyday lives makes it a little more comforting.
My hope for everyone is that they chose to live in the moment a little more this year. If we have learned anything in the last 365 days, it is that life is short, and nobody knows what will happen, so don’t forget the little moments, because looking back one day, you may realize those are the ones that mean the most.
We are all human, and none of us are perfect. We like to try new things, and we make mistakes. We might stumble and fall, and we might get hurt; but we rise up again, try again, and keep learning and growing. We are alive and should always be grateful for the opportunity we are given to live this life, regardless of the hand we have been dealt at any given time.
Everyone should feel privileged to live in small communities that help support each other and help each other grow.  It is a great feeling.
So here’s to hoping everyone’s New Year’s wishes come true.
Best of luck…from the Hartland.