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Celebrating the Two Y's: the Year and You

As 2006 is coming to an end, a new year of possibilities is approaching. We leave behind experiences, and moments to add to our collection book of memories. A world of wonder awaits us with open arms, its time to reflect back on lessons learned and knowledge gained.

We know life is a gift and much too short to waste, it's imperative to attain the skill of self-motivation. There are instances we won't have the support of family or friends. What will we do than? We must search within our soul and find compassion for ourselves; this will help us through difficult circumstances.

Forget about "what ifs" and "I can't"; take them out of your vocabulary. Put a positive spin to every single thing you do. Keep in mind, it's much easier to give up and forget about what is really important to you. Time and time again, I tell myself to stop, focus and listen to what surrounds me. Always be proud of who you are and remind yourself that many others aren't as fortunate.

With a new year, a fresh start follows. Put effort into your resolutions this time around. There's no quick fix for anything so make a point to set realistic goals. Hard work does pay off in the end and you'll gain so much insight throughout your journey. Connect with yourself on a higher level and truly value what you've accomplished.

There will come a time in which you'll be made aware of how special life is. Just recently I became ill and was stuck in bed for days on end. I wasn't able to do anything; all I wanted was to feel better. It reminded me of when I accompanied my Mother to Chemo sessions. There amongst many, my Mother sat receiving her treatment always putting on a brave face for me. The funny thing is that I too did the same for her. It made those awkward and difficult times pass with less emotion.

We get involved with our everyday routine and lose sight of what actually is significant to us. With many distractions in life, we need to revaluate our priorities. Without health we have nothing, we must take care of ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally. This is the first step in many to becoming a happy successful person. Acknowledge the simple things in life that will bring you the most joy.

One of my fondest memories with my Mother was during a serious conversation we had about my life after her death. I fought back the tears trying to be strong for her. I looked away to avoid eye contact and noticed something amusing. Suddenly without warning, I began laughing so hard that I ended up crying too. I remember my exact words, "I am my Mother's Daughter". She looked at me puzzled by my outburst and with a smile she asked what I was babbling about. I pointed to our feet, she looked and still unsure she titled her head slightly. My Mother and I were wearing socks, actually the same pair of white socks to be exact. We had both inverted our socks seam side out on our left foot only. At that very moment, I knew no matter what happened I'd always be my Mother's Daughter and we'd be together forever if only in spirit.

I'll leave you with two last thoughts
You don't have the ability to change your past but you do your future and live life in the present, but live it so that your future is all that you dream of.

May this new year bring you much joy, love and health!

Learn more about this author, Barbara Nero.
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