Many Moons and Ripe Reflections

Wow.... 2010! What a trip! The last ten years have been an unbelievable convalescence of coincidences.
I think that, whether it is simply proximity or true revelation, 2009 has been the most trying and beautiful years thus far.
This year has brought heartache and joy. I have loved and lost. I have made some of the best friends this life has to offer and this world has lost some of the most beautiful souls that have ever graced the surface. I was fortunate enough to rekindle friendships and reignite former flames.
I learned the true meaning of strength. I learned how to hold my head up high even when my world is crashing down around me. I learned how to share my life with others and let my guard down even in the face of vulnerability. I found out what it means to be quiet and listen. I found the beauty in silent moments. I learned how to depend on others for strength when every ounce of my own strength has been taken. I learned what it means to be mortal. I learned what it feels like to cry until every piece of my heart has shattered beyond repair. I learned what it is to be a best friend and I learned what it takes to be a best friend in return. I learned the true meaning of love - a friend who will sit with you in a hospital room as you cry and walk with you through hell and back trying to find a silver lining. I learned what it means to ask for help. I learned what "courage" means. I learned how it feels to say "no" and how it feels to set limits. I learned how far I can go on perseverance and strength and that there are limits to what I am capable of - and that it is okay to be human sometimes. I learned that there is a contentment that comes with the realization that I am a beautiful mess and that people love me because of it, instead of in spite of it. I realized that I am brave and fierce and compassionate and stronger than I ever could have imagined. I learned that I am committed to making the world as beautiful and flawless as I believe it can be. I learned about commitment to a choice and living with the consequences of my actions. I learned how to fight for myself and my own justice.
I have been given some unbelievable opportunities this year to grow, be loved, to love in return, to hold close that which is most dear to me, to be raw and exposed and to realize that that is beautiful and honest.
I suppose the truth is that 2009 has been a very difficult year and that 2010 will hold its challenges and battles, but the result is that I will challenge the accepted norm and I will fight for my place in this world and cherish every moment that I am fortunate enough to experience. There is an unparalleled beauty in each still moment that you can grasp.
I love you all and I feel so fortunate to call you "friend".
*Over & Out*
V