What have you learned from the past year?

FRIDAY, DEC. 28: For many of us, it seems like only yesterday when salutations of ‘Happy New Year’ were being shared with everyone we encountered, as we ushered in 2012.

For some, the past year has been one of celebration and joy while for others, it brought tragedy and sadness. And just like all other years, 2012 created special memories but also brought about events we’d rather forget.

But one thing remains as we say goodbye to another year; time will go on. 

It always amazes me how the end of a year causes us to reflect upon all the things that have happened and forces us to make decisions on how we might choose to do things differently in the upcoming year. 

Likewise, the start of a new year brings about a renewed energy to start all things new — including the manner in which we demonstrate our attitudes, the search for a new job, the way we do all manner of things, and how we interact with people.  Today is the last Friday of 2012.  I ask — what have you learned from the past year, and what will you do differently or better in 2013?

My younger sister asked my six year old niece for instruction on a particular thing earlier this year and became frustrated when she just couldn’t seem to understand how to do something that a child made look so simple.   The more my sister struggled to understand, the more my little fire sparker niece grew impatient.  Finally, in all her innocence, and in her attempt to show my sister just one more time, she said, “Mommy, look and learn!”  Those instructions from the mouth of a babe have resounded within me for the duration of this year.  Look and learn! 

In 2012 I, like many others, have had my share of ups and downs, but at the advice of my niece – advice I overheard — I took time to observe (look at) and learn numerous things that have transpired this year.  And there were many moments when I had to reflect on things gone wrong, learn from the mistakes of others, learn from the behaviour of others, and to exercise every ounce of patience in waiting for a positive outcome.  Through it all I’ve had some painful experiences but through much prayer and support of family and friends, the year has ended far better than it began.

In last week’s article I spoke of the importance of family unity at this time of year and reconnecting with friends and loved ones that we have not been in contact with for some time. 

I’ve talked with so many people this year who have had some form of disgruntled attitude toward someone with whom they used to be very close. 

And even at major family events – weddings and funerals – they still can’t come together. Is the bitterness really worth it? Grudges consume far too much wasted energy that can be better utilized elsewhere.

While I encourage you again to reach out to those with whom you have not been “civil” as we say in Bermuda, I take time today, on this last Friday of the year, to say thank you to all my family and friends for your undying support throughout the year. 

Thank you to you the readers. And to all of you it is my hope that you will reflect upon 2012, continue with the things that worked well for you and for others, change the things that didn’t, and make a positive difference for yourself and for others in 2013.

• Shawnette Somner is an educator and mother. E-mail: [email protected]