End of Year Musings

It's the end of 2007, and as I recover from the post-Christmas haze and attempt to get my still-holidaying brain back to reality, I realise what a glorious year it was for me. Career wise, was a year of many changes; I went freelance and took up a few exciting projects, and ventured out to the world of retail sector part time. I've met a lot of interesting people. It's also been a year for good friendships and stronger family ties. I've really come to appreciate my friends and family.

This year, I'm spending the NYE in solitude, instead of going to parties or hitting the town. This will be my third time and I'll just relax quietly. I realise it's not everyone's cup of tea, but it really is a lovely way to finish the year. When I announced my intentions the first time 8 or 9 years ago, it startled a lot of people, particularly the ones that didn't know me very well. They saw my solitary NYE as something outrageously antisocial and depressing. Some looked at me as if I'd just expressed my desire to club a baby seal. They said "You.....want to spend NYE alone?!" in horror. To me, it's a perfect time to reflect and unwind. I got sick of having to explain myself and justify my decision, so I simply said to everyone "I have already made a plan" the second year, and didn't offer further details. People around me are more used to the concept now, and they generally just let me be. I still get the occasional "Maybe you should talk to someone" plus that whole concerned look from acquaintances, but these days, those that are close to me do understand and accept why I like to do this. Some even said they'd like to try it one year.

I also had an epiphany. I can afford to be solitary because I have a choice not to be, meaning I have friends and family that would welcome me if I'd like some company. People are kind enough to invite me to things. There's a world of difference between loneliness (pain of being alone ) and solitude (joy of being alone). There are people in this world who are bona fide hermits that literally cut all or most ties with others. I used to think that I am only a step away from that, but I was mistaken. If I didn't have the interactions with my good friends and family, I'd be lost. I'm eternally thankful to their existence for giving me the chioce to relish in solitude. Some people don't have this choice and are forced to live in intense lonliness with a huge gaping hole in their hearts. To be able to live like this is a privilege, and I hope I've been a good friend and a family member to them as well. I shudder to imagine what would it be like to be unloved, unwanted and uncared for.

I'll brave the intense heat soon and will get some nice mangoes, watermelon, cherries and nectarines for dinner. Then I'll run a cold bath with some candles and soothing music to literally chill-out. I'll reflect on the year, maybe read a book or watch my favourite DVD, and send out "thank you" vibes to everyone who are important to me in my life, as I reflect on how they all helped me be happier and more balanced throughout 2007.

It's getting a little heavy for a NYE topic, so I'm off to prepare for my solo festivity now.
Have a terrific New Year, everyone!

PS The Top-selling drinks list hasn't been forgotten - it will appear on the next deli post :-)