Time to say goodbye to 2025 and prepare for 2026. Can you believe it? This year flew by for me - again. And I'm sure for you too. Before we usher in the New Year, I am a firm believer in taking time to reflect on the year that is ending to bring closure and to revisit our priorities to see where we might need to make adjustments for the year ahead.
Every year does not go as planned and we have to be willing to deal with whatever comes our way. This is where a spiritual practice is vital. Life can throw us a curve ball and a strong spiritual practice can help us navigate life's unexpected challenges with more grace and faith.
1. What are some good things you accomplished this year? Here are a few of mine.
My son moved back home in February after 12 years in Texas. Things haven't been as smooth as I would have liked but distance does affect connection and communication.
Was able to visit sunny Florida again in the Spring. Love Siesta Key Beach. It was more crowded than usual due to the change in school vacation schedules this time.
In September, went on a girls' retreat to Hilton Head, SC with a good friend. We had a great time, being relieved of all of our daily duties and responsibilities and had someone else cook for us.
What fun positive events happened in your life in 2025?
2. Did you learn something new? Try something new? Buy something new?
Replaced my entire HVAC system in June! A big deal but not as big as I had imagined. Mostly researching the various options, companies, and brands. It was 22 years old so it did well for many years. Lesson: when you start worrying about whether something is going to break down, it's time to buy new. That includes appliances, cars, etc.
Learned a new calligraphy lettering style called Square Capitals and used it making Christmas cards this year. It is a fun and mindful activity as well as creative.
Spent time practicing my Spanish for my upcoming trip to Spain in 2026. There is a lot to learn about the idiosyncrasies of a new language, that is for sure.
Started a new exercise routine that I experienced at Hilton Head Health. TRX. Have you tried it? I am seeing results already and am excited about working out again.
How about you? What new thing did you try, buy or do this year?
3. What lessons did you learn this year?
Relationships can be very draining, particularly family. If someone you love is draining you, it's time for firmer boundaries and a time out. Make self-care a top priority.
My peace and my joy don't depend on other people's behavior. It depends on my behavior. It is a choice to make peace and joy a top priority. And remember, you can't have joy unless you first have peace.
Some things only God can fix, try as I might. My own efforts are often futile. When you get frustrated, let go and let God. Works every time.
What lessons did you learn this year?
4. Who did you connect with this year?
Online bloggers and social media personalities which has been fun. The world is connected via the Internet.
My nephews and cousins who live out of state. Been having some good conversations so that is a blessing.
5. How did you use your time this year?
We make our plans and our goals, but sometimes our time is not our own. When we are working we have a schedule and deadlines or quotas to meet. When we retire, other responsibilities like elderly relatives, health issues, and finances take our time. The key is to accept the will of God, do whatever is right in front of you, and trust God's timing. With a smile.
Finally created an audiobook for my first book, "The Power of Faith: a journey to healing, wholeness, and harmony." Ebook available on Google Books and audiobook on Google Play So excited to have accomplished that. Am currently working on reformatting this ebook to get it onto other platforms. It is on Amazon Kindle already.
Updated my Mediterranean cookbook, over 160 pages of deliciousness including several ethnicities. Order your digital copy today for only $24.99 using Zelle and my email address arielpaz08@gmail.com and I'll get it right out to you to start cooking fun!
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I hope you were encouraged by this post. If so, do pass this on to a friend who could use a bit of encouragement. I am looking to increase readership and I need your help. All they have to do is enter their email address in the box provided. They'll also receive a copy of my free e-guide, "7 Steps to Finding Your Spiritual Path. We're all on a spiritual journey and sometimes we have to take a different route.
Stay tuned for more practical and positive wisdom on igniting the power within and discovering YOUR destiny!
Wishing you a Happy and Healthy New Year and remember -