Twenty-seven.
I have no idea what to do with this number, I’m just glad I made it this far! It sounds silly, but even though life expectancies continue to rise in some parts of the world, there are many others where it’s uncommon to develop fully and lead a happy, healthy life. At this point, I’m very grateful for each birthday I get.
But enough with the drama for now.
In my humble opinion, December 29 is an awesome birth date because it coincides with the end-of-year renewal that I love. My new age always comes hand in hand with the opportunity to reflect on what the last 12 months have brought and what the next dozen might hold. It’s also a time of unwinding and much needed family bonding.
However, the inevitable life questions also arise, along with the ever so daunting resolutions list. 2013 was the first time that I was actually able to hold myself accountable for at least half of my goals, which is quite the accomplishment for me. I’m hoping 2014 will improve this trend.
At 27, I feel like I should get serious about my life, yet I also said that at 26, and 25, and 24, and… Well, you get the picture. Really though, what does that even mean, to get serious about one’s life? I have a stable job which allows me to live in NYC –no small feat-, I like my apartment, I can take vacations and visit loved ones, and so, so much more. In short, I can fully provide for myself.
For all intents and purposes, I’m successful. So why do I feel like something’s missing? Where does this pressure come from? Why do I continue to stress myself out so much?
I honestly don’t know. Neither will I bore anyone with the possible answers my brain might come up with, especially not at this festive time. However, as we get ready to welcome a new year into our lives, I would like to draw attention to one small matter: we need to learn to relax, to live and let live.
One more time: live and let live. You don’t have to have everything figured right now.
When we’re told that it’s all about the journey and not the destination, we should make a true effort to notice the importance of the lessons given to us at each turn. The destination matters, but it’s how we get there and who we become in the process that will determine the rest. Let’s do our best to enjoy every step of the way.
My sincerest best wishes to everyone in this new year. I hope we can all find the courage to do a little bit each day to help us chase our wildest dreams.
Happy 2014!
Photo: Gabriela Alemán / Isla Verde, San Juan, Puerto Rico
belén/alemán 