2011 was probably one of, if not the, most eventful years of my life to date.  Everything that I knew about 2010 changed, one thing at a time.  I moved to state I’d barely visited; ended one career and started another; found stability and peace; reminded myself I’m only human; and, most important of all, I lived.

What I find somewhat ironic is that so much of what I accomplished this year was borne of (what I thought were) long-dead goals and ambitions.  As many things as I put to rest this year, the last 365 days taught me that, if anything, my life is just beginning.

No annual reflection would be complete without acknowledging the support of my family (blood and honorary), closest friends, co-workers, and peers: suffice it to say, I love and thank you all.  I would not be here without you.

Just about everything I’ve experienced this year reminded me of just how blessed I really am.  2012 promises to be quite the journey.  I invite you to come along.

As I continue to grow, I find that my personal progress isn’t limited to my career or standard of living.

Some things just don’t appeal to me anymore, while other things appeal to me even more.  Taking a step back to look at the person I’ve become (or rather, allowed myself to wholly be), I realize just how far astray I’d let myself get over the years.  Who I am today is far more in line with the man I had always strived to be.

I have in front of me a few opportunities that I’ve been waiting to take advantage of for over fifteen years.  Now that I am here, I am feeling almost unworthy of my own success.  The fact is, I know better – I’ve earned this.  I don’t owe anyone any apologies; I never stepped on anyone’s toes to get here.  No, I just need to get used to the idea.

Each day, I worry about repeating myself, but I find that this is truly uncharted territory.  The future is not the plan – there is no plan.  I’m focusing on living my life, and making each day more important than the last.  It’s a tall order for me, but, I really want to give it a shot.