It’s the end of the year and time for stock-taking. I’m a big fan of lists (it’s the OCD in me) and especially of using them for reflecting on what’s been and what’s to come at those times of the year where shifts happen–birthdays, the New Year, change of seasons. It can be a powerful exercise, because sometimes we can feel like we’ve done nothing, made no impact, have nothing to show for ourselves. And then when I started to make the list (and was only thinking specifically about things related to singing, teaching and music work), I realized: wow! A lot has happened, and I have a lot of things in the hopper too.
So I’m keeping it short and sweet this week, because I’m on a roll towards cleaning off my desk, washing my windows and mending my socks. I’m into the metaphorical space of finishing the things that have been left unfinished, so that I can start 2023 afresh. Even though there’s a lot to despair of in the world, for the first time in a couple of years I feel like there is hope and possibility as I approach the turn of the year. I want to have a clear space to work in and from (my desk); I want to see the world with fresh, clear eyes (my windows); I want to walk in the world with feet that feel warm and nurtured, even if they are a little battered and don’t look just perfect (mending my socks).
Happy New Year, everyone! May you have the time to reflect on good things (however small they might be) you have brought into being, and the courage to dream of what you might want to work on next.
See you in 2023.