After turning 60 years old (WTH??!!) I decided to add to the degree I got back in the 80s with a Graduate Diploma in Theology - and it is AMAZING!!! Putting aside all the answers I've been fed for the past 60 years (seriously, WTH??!!!) I am opening myself up to new ideas and facts that are mind-blowing to say the least! I even love the assignments, though the deadlines are a bit short. I love reading your blogs and your encouragement to be more me, and this couldn't be more 'me'!
i loved reading this - thanks for sharing!! here's my list:
1. taking medical leave at work then eventually quitting that job - i was working full-time in a role that was actively harming me and for employers that weren't supportive. the leave brought me clarity about that, and helped me figure out the best way to finish the dissertation year of my PHD.
2. cosplaying - it hasn't been in the "traditional" sense lol but it's been dressing up or wearing costumes to movie showings or parties. it's been a great creative release, and a neat way to connect with others doing the same!
3. being open to love - obviously i couldn't control when it popped up, but i made some early decisions to let go of an unhealthy relationship and to not allow it to harden my heart. just one of the many things i felt like i had to give up this year, with no return or indicator of anything good coming my way. but this person showed up, and met my vulnerability with reciprocity. it's been an unexpected gift and renewal of hope and happiness for me in this season.
Best decision in 2023 was to take a 2 month leave from work and find myself again. The self that laughs and is light hearted and tells jokes that are pure without resentment.
The best decisions I made in 2023 was to 1) prioritize advocating for my health (getting a diagnosis and making insurance pay for the medical equipment I need), 2) taking a week long vacation at the beach, and 3) reading a lot of good books!
At the beginning of the year, because of Long Covid, I had to make a choice with my health that ended up being a hard journey but definitely the right one, which gave my body the nourishment I needed to heal. I also led a service on joy which was good for my spirit!
Leaning on my community was the best decision I made this year. This year was the worst year of my life so far, no exaggeration. But I’ve never felt more loved and supported. Felt like a failure--but I know that’s a lie carved from the pit of self-sufficient-capitalist hell.
Other great decisions include playing guitar more and going semi-free form with my locs. I also read fewer books but savored books and let myself reflect longer when I finished one.
After turning 60 years old (WTH??!!) I decided to add to the degree I got back in the 80s with a Graduate Diploma in Theology - and it is AMAZING!!! Putting aside all the answers I've been fed for the past 60 years (seriously, WTH??!!!) I am opening myself up to new ideas and facts that are mind-blowing to say the least! I even love the assignments, though the deadlines are a bit short. I love reading your blogs and your encouragement to be more me, and this couldn't be more 'me'!
i loved reading this - thanks for sharing!! here's my list:
1. taking medical leave at work then eventually quitting that job - i was working full-time in a role that was actively harming me and for employers that weren't supportive. the leave brought me clarity about that, and helped me figure out the best way to finish the dissertation year of my PHD.
2. cosplaying - it hasn't been in the "traditional" sense lol but it's been dressing up or wearing costumes to movie showings or parties. it's been a great creative release, and a neat way to connect with others doing the same!
3. being open to love - obviously i couldn't control when it popped up, but i made some early decisions to let go of an unhealthy relationship and to not allow it to harden my heart. just one of the many things i felt like i had to give up this year, with no return or indicator of anything good coming my way. but this person showed up, and met my vulnerability with reciprocity. it's been an unexpected gift and renewal of hope and happiness for me in this season.
Holy wow it’s beautiful--your playing always moves me!!
Best decision in 2023 was to take a 2 month leave from work and find myself again. The self that laughs and is light hearted and tells jokes that are pure without resentment.
Second best thing was starting a blog to support my creative writing and be accountable to myself. https://smccoard.wixsite.com/keep-rising
That’s for the question it’s a good way to reflect on the year.
The best decisions I made in 2023 was to 1) prioritize advocating for my health (getting a diagnosis and making insurance pay for the medical equipment I need), 2) taking a week long vacation at the beach, and 3) reading a lot of good books!
At the beginning of the year, because of Long Covid, I had to make a choice with my health that ended up being a hard journey but definitely the right one, which gave my body the nourishment I needed to heal. I also led a service on joy which was good for my spirit!
Leaning on my community was the best decision I made this year. This year was the worst year of my life so far, no exaggeration. But I’ve never felt more loved and supported. Felt like a failure--but I know that’s a lie carved from the pit of self-sufficient-capitalist hell.
Other great decisions include playing guitar more and going semi-free form with my locs. I also read fewer books but savored books and let myself reflect longer when I finished one.
Austin, this post encourages me in a very particular way, so thank you. I know that’s vague, but I’m still pondering. 💜
I love this question, and am going to use it for table talk when our adult kids are home!
Best Decisions 2023-
1) made it a priority to visit out of town friends- so much laugh therapy!
2) going to assisted stretching sessions once a week- game changer !I float out of there and for days later.
3)toured The Legacy Museum and the Peace and Justice Memorial in Montgomery with a cohort who took me deeper into social justice work.