As I prepare for Christmas and count down the days to visiting Grenada for the New Year's , I think it is fitting to quickly review this year, in anticipation of the next.

This year was one that was filled not only with challenges but also with many successes. I must say I grew up alot. Some of the things my grandma (May She Rest In Peace) said to me as a child reverberated in my head quite a bit this year.

I've learnt that not everyone who comes into your life, comes for a lifetime, some indeed come from a reason and/or a season. We must thank God for them because they allow us to mature, be true to ourselves, stand tall under wavering circumstances, and to actually stand for something. There are also those persons whom you initially thought came for just one season, but they are still there -- they bring daily  joys, seek your advice just as much as you seek theirs. On that note, I've realized that it is very easy to dish out advice, but when faced with similar circumstances, we may not heed our own consult. 

I've also learnt that it is wise to "give your ears to many but your mouth to few". Again I have to thank God for giving me great friends whom I can confide in. On so many occasions, I've seen the mishaps of others who confide in others only to hear their stories-- good or bad-- on the street in a relatively short period.

I've learnt to also appreciate family. Although I needed to move from Texas to Massachussetts, I really missed my sister Annette whom I lived with for the last 2 years...it's great to have a sis whom you can chat with all night, go window shopping, movies,  restaurants....and the list goes on. God has definitely blessed me with the best family. I have to thank God for the family plans which allows me to talk to my sis and bro for at least an hour each day; and instant messenger which facilitates regular conversation with my family at home in addition to the weekend calls.

I've learnt that although to some extent life is what you make it, we also have to let go and let God. Do what you must but never forget the constant of prayer. With prayer, as you get those lem, you will make the best lemonade. With prayer, you learn to compromise but never compromise your beliefs. With prayer, you learn to forgive others and wish them the best, even when theydisappoint you. With prayer, you learn to appreciate the simple things in life. With prayer, you learn to be happy for the success of your friends and family (in some cases being even more exuberant than they are). 

2007 was a great year and a learning experience. In 2008, I wish my friends and family continued success, and I do hope that the sky would be the limits as I strive to achieve greater things.