The year that was.

I will be a month early in writing my end of the year update. I think the past 11 months had enough happenings already that could justify such a post. There are those I longed for and others I denied.

This year rounded up my first year at work. I love the perks, the responsibilities, my team and my products. I know I have idealism on my side and maybe I will eventually get pessimistic, but for now I accept everything as a gift. One of my biggest joys was writing a paper and presenting it at a conference in Paris. It was my first time in Europe and I thoroughly enjoyed it. For 2006, I’m set up for more travel opportunities- I’m grateful.

This year, I achieved several goals I set for 2005, the biggest of which was weight loss. I lost 40 lbs. I wanted to look younger because everyone kept on thinking I was 6-8 years older. I also wanted to feel more energetic. I haven’t arrived at my end goal, but I learned that discipline is always good, and a healthy lifestyle is worth sweating for.

I faced many demons this year too, those from my past, my psyche, my family and my friends. I lost ground on many of them, and as a result my life will never be the same. But what I will take out is a deeper understanding of grace. Grace that is free, unearned and resurrects the dead. I died a hundred deaths this year yet I’m still alive.

And lastly, there is romance. All my life I’ve been very cautious to the point of inaction, but now I know that it is a man’s role to pursue. I think it’s about time that my knowledge develop into action.

As good as 2005 was, I leave it behind in anticipation for 2006.