New Year Aspirations

New Year Aspirations

New Year Aspirations

The new year always brings forward old aspirations as well as new. For me the new year always compels me to create another “Bucket List” even though I did not check anything off the prior lists. In fact, the last list sits in a folder in my desk drawer. I may have accomplished a few small items, well a small piece of one item. My list consists of financial goals that were overzealous, visiting beautiful locations seen in movies that are just days away, and finishing the two manuscripts started over a dozen years ago. This does not sound very inspiring I understand, however, I want to share that I wholeheartedly believe that this year will end with at least one fully completed check on my bucket list.

The first piece I started was born of my curiosity to solve mysteries, puzzles. When I was younger, I was intrigued by solving problems with evident solutions. Years following, I began to watch television shows that focused on searching for clues to solve mysteries within one hour. I watched them with such vigor playing close attention to every detail and trying to call out the next step before the characters did. These shows, still on today via reruns, have inspired me to pen down my own mystery. The second piece I started was a spiritual journey that is still in the infancy stages. My faith has grown leaps and bounds through preachings and teachings with my greatest lessons coming from personal testimonies.

My resolution this year is to make time for myself to revisit my writings from years ago and enhance skills learned through my continued education and life’s experiences. The only way to truly receive inspiration is to believe that our thoughts and words can help others that feel disappointed in themselves for not completing a specific project. Life will get in the way no matter how organized and disciplined we are. We only have so many hours in a day to complete the tasks that serve our family, our careers, and our friends in need.

I can personally attest to the guilt I feel when I put myself first and do things that I enjoy. I need to block out more time on my weekly calendar for me. My greatest aspiration is to care for myself; mind, body, and spirit so that I may grow and help others as I wish to be cared for.

The first few things on my immediate short list, although not part of a bucket list, nonetheless, they are a beginning.

1) I would like to finish the painting I started of the Grinch last Christmas.

2) I would like to finish the crocheted blanket I started about five years ago.

3) I need to start an evening walking routine not only for exercise but for some quiet time to spark creativity for writing short stories.

4) I need to schedule about an hour a week to provide myself with a manicure and pedicure.

The next list will contain some more of the short-term items that may take a few months but are still important to me.

1) I would like to start an emergency savings of at least $1,000.00 as a renowned author has been advising for the last few decades.

2) I would like to complete a few more chapters in the writings I started over a decade ago.

3) I would like to strengthen my short stories to share with you all.

Many of you may have similar goals, large and small, and I keep all of you in mind as you work through the items on your personal lists.