2010 is ending, and none too soon for so many people I know, myself included. It seemed to be a year filled with change, and while some of that change may turn out to be for the best (trite, perhaps, but true), it was not easy. Medical emergencies, surprising and hurtful news, the end of several long term relationships…rapid changes were everywhere.
For myself, I moved from the place I had called home for over 8 years, two jobs I loved, and a plethora of friends who were close not only emotionally, but physically (in one case, right next door) to a place …well, let’s put it this way: I spend a hell of a lot of time with my parents and go days without phone calls, and the nearest Trader Joe’s is over an hour’s drive away. And yet…it’s not been all bad. I have job that I love more every day, a boss I would wish on everyone I love, and most importantly, not only am I once again living with my daughter after 2 years of living apart, but I am close to my grandfather, whom I adore. And my parents, who aren’t getting any younger, are also close by. I like having family around.
The change was hard, and I still have trouble reconciling myself with living in a congressional district which elected someone endorsed by Sarah Palin. My savings are gone, and I’ve had to humble myself to the point of accepting food stamps to feed us. But in some ways, I’ve become a better person. I’m much more patient with my daughter, and myself, and I’m much more self-reliant than I thought I was. In fact, I feel like I’ve been given something of a new start, however rudely and abruptly it happened. Maybe I needed the kick in the ass. And maybe, just maybe, there’s still a little piece of me who resents the way in which it happened. But water under the bridge, right?
I look forward to 2011 with some hope, some trepidation, and the knowledge that yes, I do need to buy some long underwear.
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