It’s amazing how fast the days fly, especially when you are living life to the fullest in your sweet spot fulfilling your purpose. That place where you know you are called to be!
Looking back at 2012, there were many days lived out in that sweet spot. Yes, there was plenty of heartache and trials. However, I think there is much to gain from reviewing the year past to gain wisdom for the 365 days ahead.
Here at Positively Alene – I learned a lot through you!
Looking back on your favorite 2012 blog posts, here’s what you taught me:
January
why do you do it {by a homeless friend}
My word for 2012 was STOP. As I began intentionally stopping for those in need and sharing the stories, I was amazed that you cared. Your heart was inspired to do the same. I also learned that those living on the streets can be educated and bright. I shared a post that was written by a homeless friend and you responded.
February
While it was a trying month for me, scribbling out my heart helped. Knowing you experience doubt and vulnerability brought inspiration to my soul to keep going. I could feel stripped down knowing that the art I create is not about perfection, it’s about releasing the song within.
March
it wasn’t a pretty step, but a step
Embarrassed to share the journey of how God led me to the streets, but thankful for your warm embrace. Reflecting on it’s all about stepping out and serving, not necessarily that we get it perfect. Let’s face it, some steps are just plain messy.
April
April was a great month where I needed you. Doing life with you and others who are continually stretching themselves is such a blessing. I don’t take your challenges lightly, as I need them to keep me reaching for more and not bound by fear. Releasing my ebook and declaring I am a writer were fears conquered in one month.
May
entering a strip club: while my heart pounded my life changed
Oh my stars, I have no idea how to describe May. You were there through it all as my life changed and my heart touched. My son graduated from college and married all within 6 days. Soon thereafter I entered a strip club with the Simply Beautiful ministry team and my heart changed. As I walked out of the indescribable darkness, my life was changed.
June
There’s so much to say about this month. As I took the Summer of 7 challenge with a group of writers, I SO needed your encouragement. My eyes were opened wide to the excessiveness in my own life. This month was hard, but a needed wake-up call.
a week of 7 foods – a homeless man’s food
a week of 7 clothes – a wardrobe full of pride and miss opportunities
July
Beginning a podcast was a definite step into the unknown. You cheered me on and I became determined to move beyond the vulnerability of it all. To see more podcasts click here.
August
Tired of the grey world, I ask what will you stand for? Stand for something. Pick a color – not grey – it’s noncommittal! While this was one of your favorite posts, it is definitely my hearts cry. Stand up for what you believe in.
September
September is always a great month to reflect and renew. Learning to step in to the influence in our hand is sometimes a challenge.
October
31 days of anonymity was a huge success. You wrote in your heart felt anonymous letters to those you wish you could say something to. Readers across the world were encouraged by your stories and challenges. Some of the favorites were:
November
release of my new ebook Graffiti
Thank you for your help in spreading the message of Graffiti. It was an exciting 1st week release as it hit #5 on free Kindle Religion and Spirituality charts. Reminding myself through the journey that tears reveal so much as they are tiny messengers. Pay attention as to what your heart is saying.
December
5 steps to bringing back peaceful holidays
I pray your holidays were blessed with many friends and family! I long to be encouragement to you, as you inspire me to keep sharing the words that stir within my soul.
While reflecting back is a great tool to learn from, there is actually nothing like living in the NOW. Take time today to reflect on what needs to change here, this moment, today. Maybe a relationship needs to be mended, a child needs to be hugged, your anger gotten under control, your diet and exercise in check, your checkbook balanced, or just the shear determination to follow through with daily habits that create success. Whatever it may be for you, remember . . .
there is no time like the present!
As you reflect back on 2012 what were your favorite moments that strengthened your call to live life on purpose?
Interested in a recap of last year 2011? click here.
Looking for more great blog recaps, join in here at Musings of a Housewife. You’ll be glad you did!
I had some major encounters with God this past year… My relationship with him grew deeper and stronger. It’s hard to explain really but I came to a stronger understanding of his Love, Grace and Mercy – And I grew much more CONTENT with where I am at in my life — Content in HIM … :) Happy New Year!
Oh you have that so right, being content with HIM! Now that’s some serious good words for 2013. Happy new year to you and yours.
Thanks for linking up! You have given me a lot to think about, and lots of great reading material with this post. :-) I saw two good friends leave this earth last year, and that certainly had an impact on me and renewing my purpose in this life. I hope I don’t lose sight of that as time goes by, but I definitely hope not to experience that again in 2013! Wishing you and yours a blessed new year!
It really hits home when friends and family leave us! I have a friend who had a stroke two weeks ago. We had spent the day at the church and something happened when he got home. He laid in the floor of his house for 4 days before someone found him. Oh my . . . our days are numbered and we never know when it’s our last. Blessings for your year ahead!