As 2022 comes to a close I am reminded of the miracles and challenges one may face, both simultaneously, even within a twelve month period. I always look back as a year is ending, right before a new one begins, leafing back through the chapters of a book I just completed and enjoyed.
I am forever in debited to 2022. The year of the Black Water Tiger - who was so kind and yet so frustrating all at once. This year brought back many opportunities, tribulations and chances for me to relive my power and experience my worth.
My voice became stronger. My other half has slowly found her way back to me. And my confidence has grown.
It was a year filled with continued healing and growing. One may even call it a year of growing pains. But the prospects I received have amounted more than my expectations and well wishes, even before it began.
It wasn't easy - God no. But through all the trial and error, came massive abundance and possibilities.
I am eternally grateful, to God and the universe, and to myself, family and loved ones. For giving me a chance back at life and realizing it never is too late.
During this time I am reminded of one of my favorite poems by Max Ehrmann who authored the famous ‘Desiderata’ excerpt:
‘Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly, and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant, they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble, it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars and you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.’
I look forward to you 2023. Here’s the future of possibilities! X
-Natalia Ortonowska ©
Desiderata excerpt by Max Ehrmann, 1927.