22

Big wishes for a very prosperous new year ahead!

As I look back at how 2004 started and ended, I am very thankful that in spite of some disappointing moments every now and then, overall it's all good this year.

One important lesson learned - life is not perfect, so don't expect it to be. Don't require too much from yourself and others, and learn to accept whatever unplanned event comes your way. Trust that there is a very good reason why something happened. And instead of feeling frustrated, try to be patient and flexible to the changes that you have not prepared for. After all, nothing good will happen if you let the bad vines set in.

A lot of times I have cried this year, and a lot of times I have felt like giving up. But it's good that once in my life I made a tremendous mistake and realized how much a moment of vulnerability could result to a very disastrous period. I am very lucky to have had a chance to heal and allow another to heal. Not so many people have this chance. Thank You for giving me this blessing.

Because of this mistake, I have learned self-control. Many times I have been tempted but every time, I had refused to give in - sometimes even hurting while doing so. Consequences are things to be strongly considered. Freedom is already mine, but is the one sculpting my future. As I sacrifice the immediate pleasures that came my way, I have strengthened the foundations of a better future.

2004 ended well, and hopefully 2005 will be an even better year!