With five hours before the stroke of midnight and the new year begins, I can’t help but be reminiscent of the year that was.  Traditionally, I’m supposed to be outside the house, lighting rockets and probably halfway to tipsy land; but with all the things that happened to me this year, I’m feeling quite nostalgic.  So I’m veering away from what is the norm for me, and using the remaining time in the year 2013 to do a quick look back and savor all the events that helped make this year the best I’ve ever had in my life…  so far.

2013 for is memorable in so many aspects.  I won’t go into every little detail (for now) since I’m still in that place where I’d like to keep those memories to myself.  But to give you an idea, I’ve experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows this year.  And while 2014 has already a new challenge waiting for me, there’s still that part of me that refuses to let go of 2013–primarily due to the fact that personally speaking, I never thought I’d experience the one thing I wasn’t really looking forward to… and I mean that in the best of ways.

Let’s see…  I had the best birthday celebration I’ve had in years (decades even).  I upgraded my mobile phone after three years (into something that I really, really wanted).  I received good feedback about a story I wrote (and was even told I can be a full time writer). I went back to the gym (temporarily, but still had that experience of working out).

I trusted people who betrayed me and used personal stuff against me.  I saw first hand the worst of being unprofessional and unethical.  Grudges were held against me when all I did was comment on a procedure.  People took issue to what I say online when I have freedom of expression.  Plans were made only to be cancelled at the last minute.  A goodwill gesture I made was discarded like yesterday’s newspaper.  Subtle but obvious moves were made to get rid of me.  Negative stuff was said and written about me.  I was cast aside and taken for granted on multiple occasions; and my understanding, patience, and threshold for emotional pain were tested to their very limits…  until now.  My birthday and Christmas wishes did not come true.

I did things I wouldn’t normally do for someone.  I expanded my horizons and knowledge of what seemed to be trivial stuff, but important to other people.  I became more spiritual and prayerful.  I thought less of myself.  I rekindled my interest in dogs.  I’m beginning a new chapter in my career.

I went all in…  for the last time.  Whether it leads to happily ever after or another flat-faced disappointment, it’s something I’ll never do again for the rest of my life.

Yes, it has been a roller coaster ride; and it was all worth it.  There are less positives than the negatives and yet I still consider 2013 to be the best year for me.  The quality of the positives outweigh the quantity of the negatives.  Deep inside, until now, I can’t help but smile and shed a tear (literally as I’m typing this) as the year inches to a close.  I will always carry this year in my heart and fondly–and frequently–look back as this will serve as a treasure trove of inspiration and knowledge as 2014 runs its course.

It’s now less than four hours before midnight, and I suppose that’s enough reminiscing…  for now.  Time for me to start my way to tipsy land.  I hope 2013 was also a good year for everyone.  Here’s wishing that 2014 will be the same, if not better.  Stay safe in welcoming the new year, everyone!

And a most happy new year to you too.  #youknowwhoyouare