In reflecting on 2017 as it reaches its close, like many of us I feel drawn to focus on all of the awfulness that has occurred in these last 12 months and say a hearty "good riddance" to a generally garbage year. The occasional nitwit pop star's comment notwithstanding, we are all likely in agreement that it's a relief to see 2017 go.
However, as I consider the ways in which I want to be better in 2018, one of the things I'd like to improve is in my ability to take a balanced perspective that weighs positives accurately against negatives. I'll elaborate more on what I mean by this in my annual Resolutions Review, but for now, on the eve of the (God willing less terrible) New Year, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the good things that happened in 2017 despite and in some cases because of the bad.
Abundant Demonstrations
This year began with the formidable Women's Marches and was punctuated with mass demonstrations in support of human rights, democracy, and basic decency.
With each protest, it was inspiring to watch my fellow citizens show up to fight for the heart of this country. I think our organization, outrage, and commitment to justice were vastly underestimated and it's been heartening to take multiple opportunities to correct that miscalculation.
Oodles of Great Art
In 2017, even somewhat unremarkable acts became opportunities to engage in political acts of conscientious objection. One of my first museum trip this year was MoMA's exhibition of work by artists from countries targeted in the President's xenophobic travel bans. I've made a point to visit artistic institutions this year knowing that the arts are very much under attack and need our support as a critical form of human expression.
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| Spot the ancient kitten toe beans at one of our nation's finest museums! |
While I find formal arts institutions are deeply comforting and enriching, I also have a deep love of street art. I'm fortunate that I've continued to travel pretty frequently this year, and that my travels have allowed me to see some gorgeous work while simply wandering around.
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| Pretty much sums up my response to 2017. |
Vacations to Beautiful Places and with Wonderful People
As I noted, one of the major elements of 2017's silver lining has been the trips I've taken throughout the year. Some of these have been little weekend getaways with dear friends and/or Husband. A few of these weekends have brought together groups of my friends I don't often get to see, and these have been particularly precious excursions.
Due to the generosity of Husband's family, Husband and I also got to take a more far-flung voyage for our wedding anniversary. It was an incredible trip that allowed me to experience aspects of my family's heritage that were gratifyingly grounding.
Several happy developments happened in families I love this year. Friends and family got married, got engaged, and welcomed new humans. Two of my very favorite people celebrated the first birthdays of their children this year. Family members have adopted beautiful and lucky pups.
Love persists.
Excellent Food Eaten and Made
Oh goodness some good food happened this year, including this one at my all-time favorite deli ever.
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| May not look like much, but every bite = pure ecstasy. |
Renewed Readiness to Build the Life I Want
Finally, and perhaps best of all, this year has elicited an uncompromising, clarified, and fortified readiness to stride purposefully toward the life I want. While the new year likely holds many challenges, I'm also so excited for the changes I hope to make in the year ahead.
I hope everyone enjoys a joyful and safe New Year's Eve!
{Heart}
