Many of us would like to have a fresh start.  All of us have made mistakes and bad decisions throughout our lives that have hindered us from truly being happy.  We have experienced setback after setback but sometimes we allow these mistakes, these setbacks and failures to enslave us to the point that we never enjoy our lives because we are stuck in the past.  The good news is we are about to usher in 2018 – a brand new year full of new opportunities, experiences and challenges.  Grab a hold of the new year; forget about what’s happened before.  It’s over.  The book’s closed on it. You are starting a new chapter in your life. Say goodbye to the old and hello to the new.  Yesterday is past.  Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift and that is why it is called the present.  Enter 2018 with a courageous spirit and believe that you can do whatever you set your mind to do.

Many people make resolutions that they never keep.  Sound familiar? Why?  Because resolutions reflect the desire people have to make a change.  People are actually hoping for a new start, a new beginning and new possibilities for their lives.  Life is a journey and you should enjoy every day that is given to you. So far you have survived 100% of your worst days.  You are doing great and should be proud of yourself.  You have much to be thankful for. You have people who truly love you.  The most important people in your life love you.  No matter how bad you are feeling, remember that you are not alone.  Be thankful that you are still alive and well.  Many people would have wished to be in your shoes, but they are not.  No matter how unhappy, sick, tired or sad you are, remember you have one of the most precious gifts – your unique life!  Instead of worrying about everything you should start to notice and enjoy the present moment.  Be happy that you are breathing and you are alive. You are unique and you need to remind yourself of all the love you have in your life.

Life is about enjoying your journey. We tend to forget that  happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have. It’s better to be thankful for what we have than to complain about what we don’t have.  Many of us forget about the role we play in the lives of others.  There is someone who has been inspired by your life. They have seen you struggle and survive.  They have seen life knock you down and watched how you have bounced back.  Someone is happy just because you exist.   When you realize how happy you are making someone else, it should make you happy. You deserve to be happy.  You deserve to have your dreams come true.

As we celebrate the New Year, I want to thank each of you for allowing me to speak into your life.  Your prayers, encouragement and love has enabled me to hold steady on my journey.  I believe that many good things await us as we welcome 2018.  I wish each of you happiness, success and a healthy long life.  2018 is a new beginning. 2018 is a fresh new start.  Live every minute with grace, happiness and gratitude.   Happy New Year to my family and friends!