The Last Few Breaths of 2010

So here we are at the end of another year. Another year older, another year wiser, hopefully.

I think I've learnt so much this year. About others, about myself... Well, just about humanity in general. 

The biggest epiphany I've had this year is still the one about Relationships. To know who are the people who really matter, and appreciate them more. To avoid or eliminate others who only give out negative energy. It's tiring to deal with them. And that's something which I don't need at this point in my life.

I've learnt that it's okay to say "No". I've always been a very obliging person. But I've learnt that saying "No" doesn't make you bad, or any less nice. Sometimes you have to say "No" for your own sake, for your own health. How can one expect to help others, or make others happy, when he himself is in need of help? It's not impossible to do so, but being in a state of Wholeness enables one to better spread Joy to others around. And you need Rest to be able to do that.

It's also okay to say "No" because the people who should and do matter, will eventually understand. Of course we should never take them for granted. But generally, they do understand. Others that simply can't or won't understand and conversely give you grief for it... well, maybe it's time to do some relationship pruning. I'm just sayin', you know?

I've also learnt that Relationships are dynamic. They are constantly evolving and moving all the time. And it takes work to maintain a relationship. Until we realise that, none of our relationships are going to be lasting. Be it between family, friends or lovers. It all requires effort. Just to come home for dinner, and have a meal together, even if it's for that one or two hours. Just a chill session over coffee with old friends. Just time out for the two of you. It all requires effort. It all requires a certain time commitment. And we have to specially set aside time for that. Because it's important. Because it's what makes us, essentially Human.

If everything were about work & study, we'd be Robots. Take away work & study, and we'd just be empty shells, devoid of a Soul.

So yes, my New Year Resolution is to have more balance in my life. To set aside more time for the people whom I care for. To see them happy. If I can achieve this, then yes, I think it is a type of success too. And I think, maybe, just maybe, this might be the Secret to Happiness.

Happy 2011 everyone! Wohoo.....