Happy New Year; 2011

I have never been a fan of the traditional holidays. I never got excited about Thanksgiving or Christmas; I always looked forward to New Years. Growing up a child of a government employee moves to different states came frequently and holidays with the extended family were few and far between. For this reason I loved New Years, I loved the idea of a new beginning, a fresh start. I was obsessed with the idea of being able to change what I did not like about my life. One of the traditions that fueled my obsession was eating black eyed peas on new years day. My family is originally from the south, and in the south you eat black eyed peas on new years day to bring you good luck. Despite black eyed peas being quite disgusting, I remember many new years spent chocking down a bowl of tradition.

As the years have passed and I have inevitably gotten older, my idealistic views of life have been replaced by reality. I have learned there is not one perfect day to change my life. The perfect perfect time to make changes to my life is the minute I realize I am unhappy. I have learned that eating black eyed peas once a year will not bring me good fortune. I must create my own good fortune through hard work and discipline.

I have no complaints, I have had a wonderful life thus far. My life is filled with happiness, love, success and many lessons learned. However, I do not credit my successes to black eyed peas just as I do not attribute my failures to others. I cannot say I would not continue the tradition if I ever start my own family. I guess what I am trying to say is that with every tradition there needs to be a little reality. The new year will not bring anyone good fortune without a lot of hard work. January first is the same as any other day; it just gets off to a better start with a little bubbly and a kiss.

Have a safe and happy new years my friends. In 2011 take time out for yourself, to remember what you are working so hard for and to remind your loved ones that you love them. May we all find the happiness and success we seek. xo