The Ten Most Important Things That I Learned In 2012

Each individual takes time to reflect on what 2012 meant to you.  As we say goodbye to 2012 I thought I would share the Ten Most Imortant Things That I Learned in 2012.

Family is a blessing- and I love mine.  I am so very proud of my brothers, who have had great success this year.  I am proud of my mother, who remains strong and focused as she lives without my stepfather.  I am proud of husband, and both of my children for all of their major accomplishments this year.

Family does not necessarily constitute a Blood relative –and TRUE FRIENDSHIP is an unspoken bond that will never die.  I have learned to appreciate both, and to be both.

You might be strong in mind and constitution, but sometimes you need a different perspective- It does not make you weak to seek therapy or help-

There are alternate ways of spiritual guidance, self healing and higher learning –and sometimes that knowledge is received in an unconventional manner

It’s really OK to get out of your comfort zone, and dare to be- I have met so many wonderful people, and so glad because I did!

You too can run for political office- If you truly believe in a cause, pursue it and be the best you can at it. Tenacity, Integrity, and honesty will get you where you need to go.  I may not have won that race, but I am a winner! 

It’s really OK to SAY NO! True friends will understand, or they weren’t really your friend in the first place… It’s also OK to realize that you are older and you have limitations.  If you admit this early on, life will be a bit easier.  Once you realize that you simply cannot push yourself the way you used to; and are satisfied with the small simple things you can do- the rest is gravy!

People are who they are and they are responsible for the choices they make.  You give it to GOD, be there to support as best possible and live for you- You can’t take on anyone else’s issues, or the guilt they try to lay on you when you are not willing to take ownership of their issues.

Community is family, you have good times, bad times, trying times, challenges- but like family you continue to support, strengthen, and nurture it. I love my community, we are strong, and we can do great things when we all come together.  We can do even better things when we collaborate with other groups for a common cause. I look forward to 2013 and the positive promising things it will bring.

That in a blink of an eye, life as you know it can be forever changed. Embrace the moment and live as though tomorrow may not come. We have all suffered loss this year, but gained angels on by our sides- May God continue to Bless us- and may we continue to remind one another how important we are in each other’s lives.

With this I wish you all a Very Happy New Year- May 2013 bring you positive results-and endless possibilities

Denise E. McGill

Founder-Stephenson Community Council, Inc.