Enjoying Hope! Where did 2011 go?

I can’t believe it either…and I’ve said it several times myself already:

Where did 2011 go?

It seems like it came and went so fast. And while I could reflect on all the things that didn’t happen this year — the relationship and business deals that went terribly wrong - in spite of the bad stuff, this has been one amazing year!

The 40s have turned me into this new being and person: At the beginning of the year I was diagnosed with type II diabetes — and to say it didn’t sit well with me at first is an obvious understatement. In my time alone I cried, and asked myself over and over again how I allowed myself to get to this point. I knew the family history – but still put off losing weight and getting my health back in order.

But just hearing the diagnosis of diabetes changed my outlook and perspective on life. What became important was my health — and my will to live a long life, and fight this disease. I could have just decided “Oh well, what’s the use.” But something about it actually inspired me to do battle; because, first of all I wanted to LIVE…and secondly, I thought of my wonderful family…and third, I had to continue the journey of Hope.

So I did just that. And one year later…60 pounds lighter…and four dress sizes later — I have made the choice to live.

Sometimes, “life just happens” — and that’s what happened to me. Often we don’t see it coming — but it happens. Throughout the course of the year, I had to revisit the original plan and vision of Hope. I took the advice of my incredible team members, and reorganized. Now, it was a tough pill to swallow — because I actually thought I had it all together…and couldn’t figure out what was broke. I was very hesitant about it at first; but once I took a closer look, I realized it was necessary. And in the long run, the changes have turned out to be some of the best decisions I’ve ever made… and I’m so glad I did!

We might not have gotten the chance to cross off all those things we desired for 2011 – but most important is to continue to make progress. Remember, even when it doesn’t look like it, we’re are growing — and we must keep moving forward, with faith, and a determination to overcome life’s challenges.

Here’s looking forward to a new year, with renewed inspiration. Together, let’s continue to grow better, stronger — and with a more holistic and healthy way of living our lives, loving our friends and families, and contributing positively to the world we live in. I’ll see you in 2012!

Happy New Year!