Q01

Describe a significant experience that has happened in the past year. How did it affect you? Are you grateful? Relieved? Resentful? Inspired?

I had a physical relationship with someone who is very special to me. It was emotional in the best and worst of ways at one time or another. I'm still grateful for both my relationship with him and still emotionally attached in ways that make life hard at times, but worth it.

My brother sued me. I'm mad and resentful.

I got engaged to Michael and it made me more confident.

I got engaged! I'm relieved and inspired. Oh and I passed medical boards 😁

I went to the state championships for Archery

I worked harder than I have in along time and have found a place that I want my child grow up in

Going through a divorce. I am not sure what to think, I did not have a clue that I would be experiencing this. It is an eye opening event.

My brother- and sister-in-law, along with their two kids, moved back in with us. It is trying but I am making an effort to, and feel I am succeeding in, being tolerant of divergent habits and lifestyle choices.

my son had some personal challenges. He and his father had some hard times. The troubles in my household have made my husband and I have a clear stronger connection. I am relieved that we have passed this hard time. My son is beginning college and doing well in a new environment.

My mother has been mentally ill since I was a kid. It had never been diagnosed, but she was always behaving in a very difficult way and could not manage relationships with other people. Me and my brother suffered throughout our lives from her behavior. Last year she was admitted to a psychological hospital and diagnosed with schizophrenia for the first time. She took medicine and her situation became better first and then worse, because she stopped the medication. She threatened to kill herself, went back to the hospital. Tough times. Especially for my brother, who was all the time there to help her. I lived abroad, but through all this I got closer to my brother (and in a way to my mother) again and I decided to move back to Europe. Not to my home country, but to my boyfriend's country. I met my boyfriend 1.5 years ago - never would have imagined I meet someone so nice! So for me this October means not only a new year, but in a way a new life!

This year my daughter became pregnant, after having had 6 miscarriages in her life. She's not in a relationship with the father so as my my parents helped me raise her, I will gladly help her raise her child. With that responsibility comes fear, honor, relief (for her - she's only ever really wanted to be a mother). This is good for me, too. I've always had a tendency to take work too seriously. 11 years ago the death of my mother gave me the perspective to stop allowing work to rule my life. It seems only appropriate that now when I see myself slipping into old bad habits, this time it is the birth of my grandchild that will help me realign my priorities.

I took a job!! It's been an interesting and mostly enjoyable experience. I have enjoyed being really part of something but struggled that I do not have so much control over my life as I am expected to be physically present. I'm now working on my exit strategy for the end of the financial year as I plan to get back to working independently in 2015.

Relieved I am getting better but releasable that I will be passing soon and want see my grandchildren before I go to god's house

I have done study abroad this Summer in France and currently in London. I have hated my time in college and wished to escape. However,I have had a mostly terrible time for I have not connected with any of the students. I am grateful for the opportunity to travel, but wish I was happier doing so. Because of this, and my experiences in general at college, I have become quieter and less outgoing, choosing to stay alone rather than spend time with boring and basic people who drain me.

I moved. Changed cities. From house to apartment. I love apartment living! Who knew? I've always owned my own house. I'm single and have always lived with numerous animals--dogs, cats, the occasional squirrel (oh wait, that's another story). Anyway, my houses were never what/how I wanted them to be--way too expensive to fix them up how I wanted. Now, in my small apartment, I can do this and that and achieve the effects I'm hoping for. Fabulous dahling...! I sit on my couch on a lovely day with my door wall open... I'm loving this. It's September, a chill is developing in the air, not too long before winter and snow. Except for my tiny balcony and around my parking space, no shoveling. Wow. Did I say, I'm loving this? I am. Wow. I am so grateful to God for giving me all this. I tell Him all the time. Thank You.

I moved into a new position at my job. I'm glad to be doing something different and for the opportunity to show how I can make a positive difference. I am worried that my skill set is not where it needs to be, so I plan on taking some classes in the near future.

Nothing truly significant has happened this year. It has all been a continuation. I will be graduating shortly and I am relieved that the last five years of school will be coming to an end but nervous about what comes next. This year has been a place holder for me.

My son and his wife gave birth to a baby girl - I became a grandmother. My son would like for his daughter to call me Savta - which is what he and my daughter called my mother. My mother died in 2009 and my granddaughter will be named after her. My parents were holocaust survivors so the knowledge that there is continuity is so affirming. I found this enormously moving and I am so grateful for this child's presence in my life.

I'm living with the person that I love. Which is new because we fell in love as we were both married to someone else. It's been five years now (both divorced) and I'm beginning to accept the sin that Ive committed. I hope I can being a new and meaningful life. Hear oh Israel the lord in one. Thank you for what you have given me.

My mother offered an acquaintance at her church the opportunity to for her daughter to talk to me about our mutual mental disorder. Initially I accepted her volunteering me gracefully. Over the course of a week, my angry at not having been consulted about revealing something that is very private to me to members of a community where I plan to retire grew. I finally confronted my mother as to her motives. I resented her for considering the needs of an acquaintance before that of a daughter. I now feel relieved by the confrontation, not because I'm satisfied by her explanation - I don't believe that her motives were wholly altruistic - but at finally having confronted my mother, something I rarely do. I'm grateful for the opportunity to do this. I'm disappointed that it didn't bring us closer in the end. I'm inspired to consider sharing my experience with mental illness to help to counter the way in which it stigmatizes and handicaps those who are afflicted. Yes, I see the irony in this.

My son, Richard, completed high school and moved out of our home. His leaving was difficult, as we argued constantly and things were tense, with anger and misunderstandings on all sides. I was terribly hurt when he did not include us in his baccalaureate and left commencement ceremonies immediately after they concluded. I suspected his "new family" of taking advantage of Richard. I finally had an epiphany when I took myself to church alone, hoping to hear from our kind interim pastor, Father Dan Hyman, but instead an unannounced visiting priest with an accent came in, preached about using God's love and wisdom, not ours. It was exactly what I needed to hear, and my attitude changed completely. Richard seems to be very pleased with his choices, holds a job, has bought a car, so that is a comfort, but my change of heart was key.

Something significant that happened in the last year was working on (and finally completing) my Aliyah process. It was a frustrating process that I am extremely grateful for because it taught me a lot about myself, what I value, and what I can achieve. It also taught me about how strong I am. Now that I am finally here in Israel, living my values and dream I am happier than I have ever been.

New job. I believe I had Heavenly help in getting this job. I am overwhelmingly grateful. I have been struggling with physical pain and limitations. Finally I have a job I can do until retirement.

My children (accidentaly) killed our pet rabbit. It reminded me of the massive responsibility of being a parent. I cried, not because the rabbit had died (there are millions of them !) but because I had failed as a parent. My children suffered through the grief and the rabbit died unnecessarily and painfully. It was my fault, I didn't watch them carefully enough. They didn't know any better.

Volunteering. This year started off very slow. I had no idea what I would be doing or where I would be until woman in my community offered me some admin work at her offices. It really opened my eyes to what direction I want to go in at the moment and helped me find the tools to pursue it. I am so grateful to her, the opportunity she gave me and the time that she spent mentoring me. I have now commenced studying business administration and it has already opened so many doors I never thought would open for me. Thank you. :)

I had the worst break up imaginable. I met my soul mate. He still is. He is still in my life. He had a mental break down and turned all of his resentment and blame on to me. His friends, who had become my friends, turned vicious. I lost people that I loved. In this experience, I lost myself. Everything that I believed in my world was shaken. I became suicidal. It was horrible. I am still heart broken. I hope to continue healing. I hope to find help in the ritual and looking in of the high holidays.

Moved to the DC area, and started a new job.

My husband and I have become one-day-a-week caregivers to my mother-in-law. I'm pleased to be of use/service to Mary. I enjoy spending the time with my husband. In some ways, I find I really look forward to the visits. Early on, I got into the habit of bringing her a small flowering plant each week. She looks forward to seeing what I've brought and I have fun picking out the plants for her. It's been difficult to watch her gradual decline, but she handles each loss with grace and dignity. It's been a learning experience on many levels. I think more about my own and my husband's mortality, about how our children will be affected by our eventual decline. My challenge is to figure out how to apply what I'm learning.

This year I learned to play guitar. I learn Amazing Grace, the Beetles Blackbird, David. Crosby's Helplessly Hoping, and 44 Blues. Never having played a musical instrument, and being a slow learner, this process and continuing accploshisment has caused to to spend a lot of time alone. I always challenged to find the time to practice, to not get frustrated, and learn my instrument and music. So many times I'll ask myself why are you doing this and thought I'm not going to ever get this song, this concept, rhythm. But, daily mornings before work and evenings after and one one day off a week I've come back to my room and sat with my guitar and lave slowly learned to play. I am grateful to be able to learn how play guitar. It's a really beautiful Taylor accustic guitar and it sounds so sweet. I'm also enrolled in an online web site that brings these really great teachers into my life. I see myself learning more this year ahead . I've always loved listening and going to see live music, and playing is a new found love.

I went through a very painful divorce with 2 babies in tow. It has affected me tremendously. I seemed to have forgotten how to be happy, unless in the presence of my kids. It has made me a sadder but stronger person. I feel less scared than I used to. Nothing could possibly be scarier than what I have gone through in the last year. While I a,m not necessarily grateful for having gone through the situation, I am happy to be out of a marriage with the wrong person and trying to look forward to making a new life for me and my kids.

Death of youngest sibling...learned a deeper type of compassion ...profound sense of loss and feel like there is a hole in my heart...glad there was an end to his suffering but I miss him tremendously.

My 21 year old son studied abroad in Australia for six months this year. I missed him so much. Toward the end of the period, although we had skype calls regularly, all I wanted was his hug. I let him know and when he got home he let me hug him long and close. Now in our exchanges we regularly close with I love you. I have always done that with all my close connections, parents, spouse, children, and friends. Now he closes with I love you too. That is one of the reasons I am so glad he studied abroad for so long and so far away.

My most significant experience of the past year is getting married in November 2013. I married my best friend and soul mate, Jamie. This is our second marriage for both of us - my ex-husband came out of the closet, and his ex-wife basically decided she didn't want to be married after all. Not a great deal has changed, in terms of our everday lives, but I am very thankful, each and every day, to know that our lives are intertwined on every level. Our love is so very easy - we bring out the best in each other and my weaknesses are his strengths and vice versa. We balance each other. We communicate very well. We love, with every breath. We've both been through a lot in life, in relationships romantic, platonic and familial - and I know I (and I think for him, too) am incredibly blessed to have found peace and joy and harmony with each other!

The terrorist attacks on Israel out of Gaza and the reemergence of virulent hatred of Jews. Grateful that the IDF and Iron Dome was able to put a stop to it; relieved as well. Very resentful that terrorists would start a war they knew they could not win, only to conjure up sympathy from the world's anti-Semites.

My mother is getting more forgetful. She forgot she made a kugel that she only made a few weeks ago. She has forgotten how the direction we drove to places. She's beginning to worry me, and I've talked to her about this. I wish I could make her talk to her doctor, but I can't make her do anything.

Over the course of this year, I have been asked to teach, coach and engage people from a larger audience base than I am normally accustomed to working with. With Chinese kids ages three to twelve, private music students ages six to sixty-six, inner city high school kids majoring in performing arts, curious and good-hearted women at my synagogue, curious and good-hearted singers from a neighboring synagogue, a barbershop quartet, a barbershop chorus and three cantorial soloists, I have had to tweak my teaching style to better fit the diverse learning styles of my audience(s) and find ways to connect with each person within each group so s/he could find that experience valuable, meaningful and fun. I am immensely grateful for these opportunities to serve in my community, share the music that I love so dearly, stretch my teaching skills and challenge my beliefs in how people learn and view themselves in the world around them. ... My secret fear is that someone, like the child in the story of the emperor with no clothes, will finally stand up with a pointy finger and call me a fake.

In the past year, I have changed my job and solidified the relationship with the person I'll be marrying today. As to the job, I realized how important it is to be in an environment that creates opportunity and doesn't destroy your views on self worth. I have nothing good to say about my tyrant ex manager, and I'm still healing from the time under his domain. I am relieved that I no longer work in that company, and I think I will resent my ex manager for quite some time. About the personal things... I learned to mind less what others may or may not think, and do what makes me happy. I'm marrying someone 20 years my senior, that I truly love and loves me back. I hope we make it!

I became sober again. I am relieved, grateful, and feel blessed. I feel that through god's grace I was able to get well and have access to life, to god, and to a spiritual life. I feel my souls has been restored to the potential to grow and thrive

In the last year, I had just resigned my full time job and straddled a few part time jobs for a while. Jumping ship from a steady gig with benefits to an uncertain professional future was scary, but completely worth it in the end. I am calmer and happier as a result of leaving my last job. I am about to celebrate my one year anniversary at the new place and feel much wiser, more educated, and a better therapist because of it. God completely provided for something that he told me to do. I am about to make the leap again by signing up for an Ironman today while officially resigning from after-hours. Today is a scary day.

I decided to move from Oregon to Maine for a job, completely by myself. Well, maybe that's not entirely true. I thought there was going to be someone waiting for me in Maine, but in the end that wasn't the case, and I had to go it alone in my new home. I am relieved that, despite his being part of my decision (even if I didn't want to admit it) I love my new home in its own right. I've found friends, beauty, challenges and rewards living and doing what I do now. It isn't perfect, of course, but I feel like I'm on a better track now than I was seven months ago.

Seeing my folks age and decline is very difficult. Having to relocate them to a retirement community was also very hard. Seeing able bodied, hard working people become able to do less and less is heartbreaking. Going through a lifetime of memories and achievements showed me a lot about mortality. Putting them in an environment where they are well taken care of was a huge relief. They still have more to give and they now have a stable home based platform with dignity and care. They are very courageous on this part of their journey.

Over a period of ~6mos I slowly and helplessly endured the withering of a job and career choice that lasted almost 7yrs. No fault of my own or my company but rather a comedy of errors, ineptitude, incompetence and denial by military and govt. Current events would dictate using tools such as we have built and operationalized, but no. Longest I've ever lived in a single place since childhood, and longest I've ever worked a single contractor and for a single customer. Have sprouted roots and become involved and committed in local community. Job likely gone in another 4 days, but cannot move, so will work globally. Have done nothing wrong, and have been told as such, but it all feels different. Tough. Let my guard down and really believed in the effort and trusted those around me. Humans can be such shitbags. Now is perhaps worst time for this to happen with another war, cutbacks, continuing resolution, downward cost/price pressure, stagflation, and oh yes looming "American Ramadan" where nothing gets done from week before Thanksgiving thru second week of February. Fantastic! I do have my faith, family, health and life. All else is so much accoutrement.

I moved back to the United State after living in Eastern Europe for three years. It completely changed my life in that I was finally able to be closer to family and friends. I am grateful to have found a job that allows me to be back home. It has given me a better outlook on my future.

The unexpected death of my father, which made me very sad for a long time. I'm grateful that he is no longer suffering, relieved that he is free from the prison of early dementia and the limitations imposed by cognitive loss. But I miss him and think about him every day. I miss his smile, his hugs, his quiet presence. I regret not having spent more time with him in the months leading up to his death, not stopping by his house more often. We always think we have time, but we don't. Still, I'm grateful for all the memories, and all the ways in which I was able to let him know that I love him. I continue to be inspired by his life, by the sacrifices he made, the difficulties he overcame, the challenges he endured, the contentment with which he lived his old age.

I am still healing from losing a job just over a year ago. While I am blessed to have found employment since my dismissal, the pain and heartbreak of the way the termination happened continue to haunt me. It is easy to blame others for the situation but I am still struggling with the issues that caused me to behave in a way that caused the problem. Why don't I feel like I am enough just as I am? What are ways I can feel less "like a fake" in my life? Since this situation happened in a Jewish setting, the whole situation has made me angry at Jewish communal life. What does it mean to forgive others? What does it mean to forgive myself? Why am I so hard on myself and so forgiving of others?

I recently accepted a new job in Las Vegas. A week from today, I move there from Oklahoma City. I'm nervous about the adjustment, mainly because of my husband. I really expected it to be easier for him to find a job there, but no luck yet. We have a backup plan for him to make money while he finds something, but it's not what I really want because we'll have to be apart indefinitely. It looks like the route we're going to have to take for now, though, because we otherwise cannot afford the relocation. I don't want to leave him behind, but it's preferable to him taking a job he doesn't really like and resenting me for it. I'm going to have to find a balance between staying busy so I don't get lonely and communicating with him enough that he doesn't feel like I'm shutting him out. We've been apart before due to a work situation and that was a challenge. On the other hand, I'm very excited about this big move in my career and the adventure of moving to a new city. The house we've found is beautiful and I really look forward to learning and growing a lot in my new position. I believe ultimately, things will work out fine, but there are just a lot of uncertainties right now that make the situation tense. I will miss my job in Oklahoma City and the people I've met. It's going to be hard to get into the car and drive away for the last time.

I worked really hard. I have known hard work in my lifetime but this was different. I took on a job / position that I had done in my youth. My current career was in grave jeopardy - I actually lost my positions and ability to support myself in my chosen and trained for field. I made some choices in my work that led to its loss. So I found a job in a cafe a block from home. And I cooked again. And I sweated , smelled, ached, cried , yelled, mopped floors, and took out the trash. And made 368 dollars every two weeks. I used to make much more than that in a day. What did I learn? Shear exhaustion, fear, hurt, loss. But also how to let go. I learned how strong I am. I learned how hard people- women- work. I became a part if A family. I fell in love with my co- workers and was enriched by their lives and stories.

I was asked to resign from a job. I felt humiliated, and hopeless. This experience shook my confidence to my core. Although I was hurt by the betrayal. I have given resentment a rest.

Tough question. I had pancreatitis, but that was slightly over a year ago, April 2013, technically. But coming off of that, I've been much more appreciative of my good health. It propelled me into wanting to have more fun and doing things that I want to do and make me feel good. I've become much more athletic and bold (for me - I am extremely shy!!)

Economic circumstances have forced me to live without certain things and I've actually enjoyed the challenge. At the same time, realising that life is short I've tried new things I never would have before and have loved every minute of it. I've come to believe I'm the bravest person I know because I choose to swim rather than sink. I've also learned that life is all about choices.

I had a former friend attempt to undermine my relationship with malicious gossip. I didn't think this person would ever do something like that to me. I resent this person deeply for this. I also resent others who I thought were friends as well for spreading it. Nevertheless, I am also relieved and grateful in my partner's faith and trust in me. This has deepened my commitment to my partner.

I was in a flood. I had to crawl out the window of my car it came on the heels of weeks of stress following my 89 yr old mother falling, three ER visits, hospital, rehab. I started smoking cigarettes. Smoked for a month. Just quit yesterday.

Well, S. isn't here anymore. He isn't even alive anymore. He can't hurt me again physically. He also can't reform himself. He will never reclaim his fatherhood. It confounds me. I'm really tormented by memories and thoughts. Memories of the nice guy and happy father he once was. And of the horrible, awful things he did to me later. How does a person change like that? But I had more or less accepted it. His suicide knocked me back so hard. I can't stop thinking about it and pitying him for all his self-inflicted losses over the years. It's easy, I suppose, to think about him that way since he's no longer around to threaten me. I would never want to live again the way he made me live. I love life. I love my life. I wish he had chosen another path.

I bought and moved into what I hope will be the only house I will ever own, with money that my grandmother left to my mother. My mother and I bought the house outright, so I don't even have a mortgage, and my daughter and I have some security for the first time since we left her father in 2009 and moved here. I am unutterably grateful.

Bad case of poison ivy. We are not supposed to feel our skin. It was so bad I couldn't sleep, couldn't sit still, couldn't get relief. I wouldn't wish the ordeal on my worst enemy. It made me recognize how much we take for granted. It was debilitating and made me recognize what others with disabilities must experience on a daily basis. The frustration of not being able to do what you normally do is difficult to cope with any mine was 3 weeks, not permanent.

I had a miscarriage last year in the fall. I lost hope and trust in my body for a while. I am grateful things turned out the way they did because there was something wrong with the pregnancy. Now I treasure what I do have and I was able to focus on my son more.

One of my good friend's husband committed suicide recently. He gave no indication that he was hurting or considering taking his own life. He went upstairs after saying goodnight to his wife and hung himself. In the same manner that Robin Williams took his own life just a few weeks prior. It has left me with a feeling of being unsure about anything. Do you really know anyone or what anyone is truly thinking? She thought she had an honest open relationship with her husband, the kind that the rest of us envied. But he had secrets and worries he didn't share with anyone! How honest am I with the ones I love with how I really feel? And how honest are they with me? It has shaken me to the core and really made me feel the need to express my gratitude to those I care for around me. And to express appreciation for what people do for me or others regularly. Has it made me grateful for what I have? Or has it made me unsure of it? I'm still questioning. I'm trying to reach out to the people in all aspects of my life and pull in the people I'm closest to. Let everyone know that are valued, appreciated and loved. Least of all by me!

I resigned from my full-time job after 15 years. I have so many emotions about it: grateful that I was financially secure enough (I hope) to do it, relieved to be away from such dysfunction, scared about whether or not I really am financially secure enough, lonely at times, needing community, inspired to find new avenues like self employment, hiking, art, self-awareness, personal health.

My youngest child graduated high school. It is a time to evaluate where I am, and what the next part of the journey of my life is going to look like.

This year I published my first book. My experience has been full of emotional ups and downs. My first month's sales were great, the second month was not as great...but still okay, but after that sales fell off. I realize I have no control over this. All I can do is write more books. That's the part of the process over which I have control.

Loosing my wife to breast cancer tremendously impacted my soul and spirit. Seeing ones soulmate enduring such pain, agony and fear creates feelings never encountered nor imagined ... Impact to me ? Lost my heart, ability to see and feel the suns warmth, smell of flowers and that feeling of love each time we greeted one another ... A year later ... Life goes on as I slowly recover if that the correct word for this. God Bless & keep my wife close .

Took a new job that is pushing my boundaries, professionally and personally. While an opportunity I had been looking for for a number of years, I am only now beginning to grasp the range and depth of this position. I am inspired to do my best to support my colleagues . When I feel overwhelmed, I have to reach deep into myself to identify and utilize the strengths that I believe I have.... Somewhere ....

Lost a very old Maple tree in my backyard . Made me very sad. Mirnful. No, mildly, defenatly.

I was robbed at gunpoint yesterday in my home for the cash on hand. I am grateful that I was not killed and that I do not have a gun in the house. I am relieved. I keep re-living the event with a less peaceful outcome in my vivid fantasy life. I imagine turning the tables on the guy or even shooting him through the front door. The policeman was kinda critical of my not reporting the incident until 12 hours later.

I became pregnant, and I was thrilled! I was also relieved.

I started receiving treatment for my ongoing battle with an eating disorder. It has easily affected every aspect of my life; emotionally, physically, financially etc. I was at first extremely resentful and angry with myself that I had broken down an reached out for help. At the time I felt my choices were limited as my body was falling apart. I wasn't yet able to see that what had been my best coping skill for 21 years was slowly killing me. I traversed a myriad of outpatient, partial hospitalization, and hospitalization this physically and emotionally painful process allowed me to learn to feel again, even as I started with the most basic of skills. I restart my life with mixed emotions of fear and pride. I am not entirely convinced of my ability to succeed, but I am convinced that I will re-enter the world a new person.

Being introduced to adaptive rowing through a single random incident in April 2013 and the subsequent awesome happenings stemming from that. This first-time experience of working with a disabled athlete has opened so many things up for my professional and personal growth, it's astounding. I've never felt more patience and warmth and awe at the human condition as after I meet a new athlete who, despite losing limbs, losing sight, or having never achieved intelligence past a toddler. The pedestal isn't necessary, it's simply a matter of adaptation and compassion for EVERYONE involved. There is an incredible spectrum of the human physical and spiritual experience and any imagining of one's superiority is highly suspect!

Loss. Of income, house, car, security, peace. I am grateful that I still have my family my healthough and above all God.

I was fired from a job of 9 years for taking a stand against misplaced and abusive criticism from the boss. I talked myself back into the job before the meeting was over, but I still resent the jarring experience, in light of all my dedication; all of my contributions to the health of the company. It has inspired me to redouble my efforts toward creative endeavors, so I might one day prosper from a creative career path.

I fulfilled a dream this year. I participated in the Health Certification training. I also have participated in the online NLP programmer training from NLP University. I have studied w/ Robert Dilts. I have changed jobs and have a better situation. I continue to bring milk to the Broadway Christian Parish for their food pantry. That continues to be very important to me. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities that have opened up to me this past year. I am inspired and motivated to heal those in need of healing.

I was "promoted" to the position of Fleet Communications Developer. It was a big leap for me especially because I left my safe zone. I go into work some days with excitement and enthusiasm and others I have no motivation to accomplish anything. The worst part is that I was warned this was going to happen. Fingers crossed, it's just a phase and I will grow out of it.

I spent time in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with park scientists helping with research...collecting and banding songbirds, data on various plant species, salamanders. One day I was snorkling in various rivers observing fish and aquatic species. I wrote a poem many years ago about being in that moment of drifting, being part of a river, just being aware. I think like a Zeno's paradox of an infinity existing within a finite boundry I felt the metaphorical eternity inside moments and how accesible that really is to me. While it really inspired me to want to repeat that experience--I turned 53 over the summer and I am very depressed about having to leave that existence and having to put the remainder of my life into a lot of time with teaching emotionally disabled teenagers, a regime of mostly futile, inconsequential activity that no longer remits the most basic of money I need to support my family.

The disclosure that my youngest son had stolen $8000 from me. It made me realize how vulnerable children are to experiences over which they have no control. I am grateful to know his secrets and relieved to find out where the money had gone. Yes, I am resentful because I have always tried to be a good mother. He is 14 1/2 currently and it is very hard to get through to him. The inspiration has yet to be found. I suspect it will be revealed slowly to me, if it ever is.

Rocket attacks from Gaza into Israel. I am grateful that I live in the US and we are not subject to random rocket attacks from countries on our border.

My mother died. She'd been affected by Alzheimer's for quite a few years, and living with my sister for the past six years. Her physical health was good right up through my oldest son's bar mitzvah in June 2013, but then she took a steep decline. Physically, I'm relieved. Emotionally, I'm torn... part of me regrets all of the "should haves" that accumulated over the years, and part of me remembers all the joy and love and laughter. I'm trying to take that regret use it to make fewer - or at least different - "should haves" going forward. So there's some inspiration. I've also been inspired to become closer to my sister, which is a wonderful thing.

Retirement from public schoo; system Sort of lost for what to do yes, grateful, but decided to do volunteer work at the church after school program

The company that I work for "merged" with another company. In reality, it was a sell-out of the company by the top execs who netted big bucks and left the employees to be taken over by an out of state company that has been fairly ruthless in their acquisition. For a few months I did not know if I would have a job. Eventually, it became clear that I would be retained, but that the job would require me to have a very long daily commute out of state to work with entirely new people. While the work I am doing is challenging and enjoyable, my co-workers are fundamentally unfriendly and the goal of the business seems only to please shareholders and move the stock price of the company, not please the customer and empower the employees. I remain relieved that I have a job - a good job, although the cost of commuting in both time and dollars is brutal - but highly resentful that a very good company, that had been independent for years and had a history of extremely loyal employees is gone so that a few people could pocket large bonuses and other stock goodies. I am hoping the new year allows the now-merged company to have a corporate culture more like the "old company" and that things become more enjoyable.

My youngest daughter graduated from high school. I am very grateful for the loving and kind woman she has become and for her talent and intelligence. I am also grateful that we are privileged enough to have afforded the great education that she received.

Actually I had two significant experiences - both related but also both different. My only two children married seven weeks apart - my son first, followed by my daughter. It was an exciting but hectic time, and now it seems so slow and empty in life. It's not that I am not busy or bored, because I am always busy. I guess I just need time to reflect on the change and all that the change has brought with it - namely, growing older.

Last year was great! I began a new carrer (spanish and literature training college) and this experience make me feel excited and gratefull. i continue with the studies but, in my second year, i don't feel as the same way i felt when i start to study so... i feel hopeless, think that i will never end the carrer ( the full carrer is 4 years ) because i have to do the final exams i fell insecure. ( there almost 42 asignatures in the full carrer and 10 o 11 per year). i will continue but i will need more confidence and i will need to think in a positive way.

My husband finally decided to go into an outpatient mental health program to deal with his depression that resulted from a work injury. At first I had so many reservations about this choice. I just didn't think he needed such a high level of care. When he first started to see a light at the end of a tunnel, about the end of the first week, I was so relieved. I had been trying to be hopeful and supporting him and myself before this and was exhausted doing so. I was also trying hard to be a parent to our one-year-old son, many times feeling like a single parent. I was annoyed at first that all he seemed to say about the program was that they had good food, but I knew that meant he actually liked the program. By the second weekend he took our son for a few hours so I could have some time to myself. This was the first time in months I was free. I cried with joy that my husband was coming back to me. There is still a long road both mentally and physically for him to go, but now there is an end in site. What is more, is that I am no longer carrying him. I feel like now we are walking hand and hand, and I just hold a little tighter when he trips. My shoulders are relieved.

My mother, who is 82 years old was in the hospital. She got better, so I was relieved about that. However, I decided it was important to spend more time with her. I talked to her on the phone almost every day. However, I feel the need to spend more time with her while she still has her memory and can function fairly well, even if a bit slower than in the past.

Kidney Stones. Truly a health issue that encompassed two months of my life. Made me thankful for my health and prodded me to make a more concerted effort to be healthy.

I have been a teacher for 30 years. Last year my principal observed me. She was suppose to come in during an early period of the day, but was unable. So she came in during the period I was the most challenged with. The students were running a student lead discussion. The topic was do males and females view the levels of intimacy. If you have never run a student lead discussion it can be hard. Students can easily change the topic, sit there and not say a thing. As the teacher you need to ask guiding questions without taking over the conversation. My students were awesome and it went well. I was able to let them lead, ask questions and I said very little. For the students who did not like to talk I went up to them and asked them to summarize the discussion in their own words, which was differentiating the outcome to meet their needs. It was a wonderful experience for everyone. The principal then used this experience with others as an example of excellent student lead discussion. In the 30 years I have been a teacher I have been observed less than 15 times. I never received feedback on half of them. It was the first time I felt like I am a good teacher. I am super grateful for this. I really respect this principal and her opinion means so much to me. It still helps to fuel me in doing the best job I can everyday at work.

I had an engagement break off. Initially it was very traumatic. I felt alone, chastised, and devalued. As time passed I realized it was a blessing. I learned a lot about who I am and how I operate in a relationship. I am hopeful this time was just getting me readied for the person I am to spend my life with. I Need to remember that each challenge affords me the opportunity to live the life I've always strived for.

I fell down and fractured my knee cap which led to a back spasm which led to a bout of some kind of arthritis that is affecting my whole body. Sometimes it is hard to take a walk. It is hard to go up steps. it has left me frightened. I had to contemplate big changes. I have to think about continuing care and who will do that for me. This might be the moment where my life really changes and the end of what I've known. I feel like I am in a state of transition.

Crippling back injury...brought me to my most weak and vulnerable state. Gave me intense continued suffering for months. It was a real lesson in humility and perseverance. There were days I truly would not have minded dying just to stop the pain. While I would not wish this on anyone, I'm not sorry it happened to me. It taught me compassion and placed me in the orbit of a truly amazing new friend. It opened up a new world to me of gratitude, being thankful for the simplest of things. I still struggle with being alone, injury and disability are frightening by yourself, but my journey has made me MOTHERFUCKING STRONG.

I explored the dark side and went against everything I have been taught. It was a philosophical exploration, but had deep resonance in the physical world. It affected me by helping me to see the patterns that I continue to repeat in my life. I count all the things that happen in my life as joy. I try to let the pain of the events inform me. It feels incomplete though. This cycle has ended, but I have no closure so perhaps I am resentful. However being right and acting on it to just prove a point can cause more harm than is necessary. One does not always need to get their pound of flesh.

i got divorced. it was a difficult emotional and physically challenging process but i am grateful to have elminated the bad energy from my life and feel inspired for the future.

I gave birth to my first child. It has utterly changed my life in every way, but mostly in a very positive way. I am deeply grateful to be a mother, and to have spent this past year staying home to raise my son. It is truly the most meaningful thing I have ever done. There have been some struggles, of course, but overall it has been a wonderful year.

I lost my job in August. It was a shock and a relief. I continue to be embarrassed and ashamed, while at the same time feeling happier and hopeful.

Sold the house. We live in an apartment now and it sucks. However, we sold in order to move to Portland, so I am excited at the same time. I miss the old neighborhood and my house, but this inspires me to look into my abilities in order to find a great job in our new location in Oregon.

When faced with an opportunity to eliminate my job and move the duties to the (other) business partner's location, my boss chose to keep me and my duties at our current location. He chose to recognize my contributions and support the "many hats'" that I wear around here. I am relieved, but do not take the gesture for granted. Job contraction is all too common an occurrence, and I, unfortunately, fit into a growing stereotype of a middle-aged worker, where finding new employment can be challenging (at best). Keeping this job means everything to me. It is interesting and challenging, and the staff relations are fantastic! It enables me to continue with the care-giver role for my mom. I can honestly say that for all of the important, non-monetary criteria, this is the best place that I've ever worked. I am so grateful for the support. It inspires me to try harder and do more.

Divorced Painful Grateful that it is over and that I grew Inspired Sometimes resentful Relieved

The last semester of college was a strange combination of stress and fun, as I tried to navigate plans for the 'real world' while finishing my thesis and enjoying time with friends. While I was grateful, I often felt overwhelmed and like I wasn't taking full advantage of opportunities. I want to make sure I don't have such an experience as I enter into my first job, and that I am inspired enough to keep working towards my goals. I would like to feel comfortable with my decisions and more confident in my abilities.

Moving in with my grandmother. Motivated me to save money and pay off debt. I am grateful to have had this experience. Feel more centered to my morals.

I believe had been asking that I consider a radical change in my life. As I reflect, he had been asking for some years and I had chosed not to answer. I relied on the usual excuse that I was much too busy. Earlier this year I agreed I would pursue what I believed Geod wanted and in my heart I'm not sure I believed it would work, but I did as I committed. While it is still in process, I am amazed at how other issues that blocked my path have been resolved - the walls fell - and it seems to be in process. My regret is that I did not listen sooner and did not trust that if it was his will, he would find a way, it is and never was just up to me.

Prior employer of 3 years, outsourced entire global department which included my job. I have felt very powerless since my performance reviews were excellent. So there was little more I could do to ensure my continued employment at that location. I was as positive as I could to the change. I really did not want to look for another job again. Luckily I was actively recruited by two local companies at the same time while still employed. I feel very grateful and lucky that I found another job before the loss of the first. i am relieved in that there were other options out there. It has made me feel more confident in my abilities and that positive outcomes are possible.

The serious illness was perplexing rather than frightening. Why my body chose to go into syncope three times with subsequent headaches and body aches was an incredibly reflective time. The medications which were prescribed for my asthma and allergies also contributed to a major shift in me. I am so grateful to wake up three times, relieved that I can control my body in specific ways to be healthy without prescription medication. My energy is increased to be able to really focus on my employment and proceed to explore relationships.

MY YOUNGEST DAUGHTER GOT MARRIED. I AM HAPPY AND THRILLED THAT SHE FOUND HER WONDERFUL BESHET!

I changed jobs. I am grateful, anxious, inspired and challenged.

There were serious developments in my employment situation. It caused me considerable mental anguish. I was angry because the situation was out of my control, but I have since become more sanguine with the situation and have resolved not to let it affect me adversely in the future.

Left work Dec 13,2013! Relieved & resentful. Never thought I would retire b4 age 70. The last year was awful, but of course I feel stronger bc of it--work politics, meanness, deception, disappointment in HR, unpaid overtime, exhaustion, heart problems and hospitalization. My dear friend (who was in the hospital when I made my decision) didn't leave in time. The place took her precious life a few months after I left. I am now so grateful that I left, and that I have been able to survive financially.

This past year I finally ended a marriage of 15 years... Our partnership had ceased to be a supportive relationship about four years previous and I along with our children were being dragged down along with my ex who had become alcoholic and financially reckless. I sold our house 1 month before the bank was going to foreclose upon it and moved my three teenage sons to an apartment just a few blocks away. I am so grateful for all the help and support for family and friends who helped along the way - especially my cousin who really helped me get unstuck and started me on a yoga practice that gave me the emotional and spiritual strength to navigate the class 4 Rapids. I am so relieved all that is behind me and we have arrived at calmer waters now. Now I am inspired to move forward into a new year with all the possibilities for growth and healing.

I changed jobs. My old job was killing me, body and soul. My new job is like breathing for the first time, hearing music for the first time. About once a week, I find myself stopped short, like I've been hit in the chest, and I realize that I'm having old-job-anxiety, and it's like I'm there again, drowning. But as tough as those moments are, they're wonderful, because they're followed by the most tear-prickingly amazing moments of relief and gratitude and joy. Because I'm not dying anymore. I'm alive. I survived.

Being called to serve a small church near my home- after not being a regular church attender because of poor treatment by my presbytery- which casued me to question my call and my faith. I am an ordained presbyterian PCUSA minister- and I can honestly say that this experince has given me more joy in the last year tahn I have known since my children were young. I am extremely grateful and thank God every day for this gift of the ability to serve these people and God in such a joy filling way- if I could I would dedicate all my time to this work- to expanding faith that serves communities- and eliminate the belief that a community needs to serve a chuech. I am inspired each week to bring us to the central tenents of our faith- the table, the baptism and the going forth into the world.

In the past year, I moved to Boston. It was my first time moving out of state from my family that didn't have a definite time cap (like study abroad does). This has been thrilling to get away from the conservative oppressive nature of my job's overseers in the south and to find it to be a job that is well supported here in the more liberal north, but it is also kind of lonely at times. Being from a smaller town (300,000) where my family has lived for many generations means you see someone, often many someones, you know every day. Friends are in mass. Here, that doesn't always happen.

We came home from a great Sunday Funday to a huge flood (aka slab leak) at our new home. We were frantic trying to figure out the situation. The damages to our house we around $21K which most was covered by insurance. It created a tremendous amount of stress for our new marriage. At first we were both resentful for buying a fixer upper home. Resentful for poor work provided by vendors. Reflecting on the experience now - I am grateful has it taught me some extremely valuable lessons. 1) Learning to compromise and work through house projects with my wife. We have a long road together in life and being thrown into this situation taught us much about ourselves and how to be a team. 2) House Ownership and the responsibility needed to maintain it. This is a on going struggle but inspiring to become man of house by taking care of things. 3) Project management skills and need for clear communication. We had issues with the work done at the house and clear expectations up front would have help tremendously. Plus walk through to review the work every time. Once we got to a week out from project being complete and almost able to get to the relieved to be done phase. We had another water issue with washer which will force us to change the flooring AGAIN. We have owned the house 2 years in Nov and this will be the 3rd time we had to redo the flooring in the living room. In the end - when struggles on house improvement are weighing on me I lean on the love of my wife, family, friends, and how happy I am with life in general. We are very lucky and that is most important.

I got an operation to make my stomach smaller. This was after years of being morbidly obese, trying and failing to lose weight, body image issues and depression. I won't say things have changed completely but I feel better and my body image issues have improved. I also did this because I was having trouble meeting some one and I feel that things won't improve as time goes by. Again I won't say that things have changed much on that front but at least I have more confidence now. There is still ways to go.

There are so many to chose from, but I will pick when I got sick during a family vacation. Towards the end of the trip, I couldn't even leave the hotel room. My husband took the kids to the beach, the pool, the zoo, etc. Really, those last two days it was like they were on their own. While sitting on the patio of our hotel room overlooking the ocean I realized that even if I don't always see eye to eye with my husband, even if I sometimes love him and hate him at the same time, even if we have our ups and downs, I knew then that G-d forbid something should happen to me and I died while the kids were still young, my kids would be just fine with my husband. Yes, they'd need to find a nanny with a great amount of flexibility to accommodate my husband's crazy work schedule. But they'd be fine - he is a wonderful father and would raise our kids to be wonderful men. It was a sense of relief and comfort.

My husband lost his job in June. I was terrified, but so proud of how he refused to let it beat him down. He struggles with depression and I was terrified that this would trigger a serious episode - but it didn't. I am so proud of him. He still has not landed a new position, but has been freelancing like crazy and is talks with two companies. I'm feeling hopeful. I also found myself rethinking a project I've done each summer for the past 8 years - and am feeling inspired by the possibility of taking it in a new direction, away from an organization whose people only support when it suits them, toward the ability to enable it to do more for more people.

The birth of 2 grandchildren--Connor and Georgie--so close together (March and June) and my being able to be involved in different ways in their first days on earth. I guess I was both grateful and inspired....I love the period when a soul isn't here at all and then it is...so magical. Especially as I am pondering my whole 60 years of life...to catch it right at the beginning gives it all an amazing perspective.

My 93 year old Mom died after a year and a half of being in serious pain and after adjusting to the loss of my Dad, her very beloved Husband, 5 years previously. I am glad she is no longer in pain and I find that I think of her and my Dad more often than I did when I knew they were only a phone call away. I am learning more about how their attitudes and biases affected who I am today as I move forward as an "orphan" who was always seen as being different in some ways than the rest of the family. Combine some Victorian era standards with the "you can be anything you want to be" mantra that few girls heard growing up as early Baby Boomers and you create some internal conflicts that persisted as long as my parents talked to me about their views. I have connected with a number of 2nd and 3rd cousins that my parent's did not stay in touch with as a result of her death and finding most of them quite liberal and adventurous - traits I think I share. This larger family of origin is a blessing that has come out of this huge change in my life.

I met David. He has restored my hope that a good relationship can exist. He has motivated me to transition from a life and place which has played itself out. I am grateful, relieved and hopeful. I expect life to be very different. I hope it encourages me to be engaged with a new life and new people, while keeping in touch with those now important to me.

My wedding day was one of the most stressful times I've ever experienced. Nothing went as it was supposed to. My dress was too tight. The DJ was clueless. I didn't get to dance with my father. The list goes on and on. But, I did get to marry my best friend. At the end of the day, that was what really mattered, right? Not that my mother still resents me for having that wedding, or that my grandfather still says my last name wrong because the DJ said the wrong last name when introducing us. I am delighted to be married to my best friend, and so grateful for the opportunity, but if I had the chance to do it again, we would have just eloped to Disney Land and been fine with it.

Mom passed away. Im grateful i took care of her and relieved she's gone. I resentful she was the way she was. Im inspired to be a better person to let go of my resentments and move on.

My second son left for college, so now my wife and I have an "empty nest". Am I grateful? Relieved? Resentful?.... None of the above. Probably the best way to describe it "Confused".

Sophie's platlet counts went out of whack. Tried a couple of treatments and didn't work. Very dangerous. Needed to go on steriods. It worked but she blew up like a tick. I was VERY grateful that the treatment worked. I was also incredibly relieved. Most of all I was inspired that a 14 year old girl, at a new school didn't miss a beat. Her transition to the school was a huge success. Not to mention she made Honors with Distinction, one of 8 kids who made it. Very impressive for a kid who had to over come a serious health issue and deal with weight gain at a new school!!

I made the decision to run for City Council. Becoming a candidate really showed me the importance of being involved in my community and how other peoples' "problems" can become our own. I am grateful for the trust my neighbors have instilled in me. Their trust inspires me to fight for my community, and leave it a better place compared to when we began.

When Sammy Sommer died I learned a lot about what a family goes through during an impossible time. I also learned how a community can show love and support during, and after, a tragedy.

In the past year, I had my heart attack. I say "my heart attack" because my dad had more than one. My younger brother had a set one summer--years ago--and many of Dad's brothers died from heart attacks. I would like to say that it changed my life, that I turned around. Now, though, months later, it is more of an event in the past. I had to wrestle at the time with questions a person of faith must answer. Why did I live? Did the Divine intervene? I resolved (no answer possible) the questions, for now. I am thankful to still be on this side of space-time.

I got divorced. Surprisingly, it has made me uncertain even though we have been separated for years. There was an incident that was the final impetus - I am grateful that my children are physically fine and we are working on the emotionally. I am definitely relieved. I am very much looking forward to this new year!

I've had so many significant experiences in the past year alone I don't even know where to begin. Firstly I graduated high school and started attending college aswell as getting my first 'real' job. All of this was so hard to get through sometimes but I am also so grateful that it happened because it has prepared me for the 'real' world.

I had major surgery in May, which has been one of the most significant and healing experiences in my whole life. Having medically-related PTSD that, in the past, has meant days of flashbacks from something as simple as going for a regular exam made the prospect of undergoing a gynecological operation while unconcious and then being in the hospital - thus being CONSTANTLY surrounded by environmental PTSD triggers and being touched by medical professionals that I did not know - absolutely TERRIFYING. I couldn't eat or sleep for days after finding out in January that it was time to move toward surgery. At that time, I honestly could not even imagine the possibility of getting through the surgery and hospital stay without being retraumatized. However, I knew that I needed the surgery for my health and I didn't want the abuse of a doctor in the past to continue dictating my physical health as an adult, so I resolved to put the work in and do whatever it took to get through the surgery with as little trauma as possible. One of the things that was so healing about the process is that the people who offered the most support throughout it were all current or past healthcare providers of mine. First, there was Beth - my former obgyn and LMT - who was the first provider to ever really do focused trauma work with me as part of the care that she provided for me. I called her and sobbed to her over the phone when I found out it was time to move forward with surgery, after years of delaying it. I remember her saying that she felt like I could handle the surgery and that it could even be a positive, healing experience for me. I was certainly dubious AND I knew that Beth had been right about things like that in the past. I did a lot of work with Ellen - my former MD and current therapist - to prepare for the surgery as well. She was my main go to when I would be struck by a new fear about the procedure and needed to be talked down by someone who could speak to me rationally about medical procedures and what does/doesn't happen. We also did EMDR to deal with the PTSD that was back in force. EMDR is one of the hardest, most exhausting things that I've ever experienced. And, it really helped. And then, of course, there's Dr. Rainville; I honestly could not ask for a more compassionate obgyn/surgeon. She offered SO much emotional and logistical support throughout the whole process. First, she and I had three pre-op appointments (instead of the standard one), so that I could get to know her better. I brought a list of 10-20 questions to each one of those appointments, and she very cleary and patiently answered all of them. She was also super supportive of the idea of creating a surgery/hospital plan that outlined what I needed in order to avoid trauma triggers. She put it right in my hospital chart so that everyone would be on the same page. When I would ask if something was possible, she would typically respond with more than I asked for. For example, when I asked if I could have surgical shorts or underwear put on my before/after surgery, she responded that I could have my own shorts and underwear on and she would remove and replace them while I was under anesthesia so that I would have my own clothes on at all times when I was awake. And she said I could wear a sports bra the whole time and that she'd even tell the anesthesiologist to leave it on during surgery and work around it! She made sure that my surgical plan got taken seriously, from big things, like having an all-women surgical team and having only women nurses work with me, to "little" things, like asking that no one approach me while wearing a white coat. And then she did things that I didn't even ask for - like have a nurse from the adjoining children's hospital bring me a teddy bear while I was in pre-op! And the surgical plan was powerful as well because it was Beth's suggestion, Ellen helped me work on it, and Dr. Rainville supported and enforced it - so it was a HUGE show of support and safety from multiple medical providers. After I woke up from surgery, I found out that it had turned out to be way more complicated than initially expected, and it took twice as long as anticipated. So not only did Dr. Rainville keep me safe, but even when I was unconscious, she stuck with me for 4 hours in that O.R. and made sure that I got the surgery outcome that I wanted, when other surgeons might very well have converted to a more drastic, but easier, surgery. Everyone in the hospital was very responsive to my safety needs, and I felt really cared for and respected. It was extremely powerful to see that there are providers out there who will deeply listen and respond to my needs when I can advocate for myself. It was also amazing - as a trauma survivor and a feminist - to be wheeled into an operating theater with only women by my side. I came out of the experience with no trauma symptoms and with a stronger sense of empowerment in medical situations. So, once again, Beth was right!

I met the love of my life. It brought back my smile, for which I am grateful.

I graduated school and found a decent job. However, I also found a wonderful man and currently I work and live almost 2 hours away from him. So I am grateful, relieved I can begin paying off my student loans. I got a credit card and have begun paying my own rent. Resentful because I am so far away and infinitely sad because I am far away from not only him but also the majority of my friends and family. Conflicted. That is how I feel. Because I am now making money I realized how much I could be giving back to people who need it more. I was already feeling quite guilty when my mother showed me this youtube video of homeless who gave the VERY little they had to someone they thought needed it more. I kind of joked that I was knitting scarves for the homeless but now I vow to do this for real. I must remember to give back. Next year I hope that I will feel like I've kept my promise.

Started third year of medical school. Excited and motivated to finally practice medicine. Learned I want to become a surgeon.

Me and my family got dragged into my brother's in law divorce fight with his wife, precisely because we didn't want to get involved he decided to take back his investment in our start-up business and we ended up sleeping on the floor at a friends house. The situation made us rethink our family relationships, short-term goals, and the future of our daughters. Fortunately during that situation we found new friends who supported us and helped us get back on our feet. I found a job at a great company and we are happy now.

I got a new job back in my old home state after three years in a very different region where we had no family and very few close friends. It meant better pay and getting a stronger support network, and the possibility of getting involved again with the communities we used to love. While everything hasn't been perfect, it gave us the chance for a sort of clean start in some areas, and for that I'm grateful.

Went to Puerto Rico with my wife to celebrate my 35th wedding anniversary. Grateful for the opportunity and the time and inspired. Magical, Intimate, Authentic

I had a Whipple, the hardest surgery the human body can undergo. I am so blessed, no cancer, I have recovered better than most people do from this surgery and I am VERY grateful and relieved.

Not in the last year, but in the last 16 months I've had a baby, a beautiful baby boy. It's been the most challenging, frustrating and rewarding experience. You never know your cappacity to love another humanbeing until you become a parent. There are days that are exceedingly diffictult, especially as he enters toddlerhood; but all of the is set aside when he snuggles into my lap to read a book, it all just melts away as we read "Goodnight Moon" for the 10th time. I could read that book over and over and over again, as long as I'm reading it to him.

My toddler has really begun to talk and communicate this past year. I am just amazed at witnessing and interacting with my little man. I am so grateful (and relieved) that he is catching up on his verbal abilities, after a slow start he is just absorbing and repeating so much. It inspires me to be a better parent and steward of this amazing person.

Back went out 3 times and it scared me and made me appreciate helping with seva and satsang, walking and working.

My husband realized that life is short and that you need to live it fully. I am grateful he is young enough to make changes in his life to live more in the moment and experience life fully.

The loss of two beloved elderly relatives, both remarkable women, one in her 90s and one 104 years old. I felt a combination of feelings--sorry that I did not make time to see them more often (especially when they were not in such dire health circumstances), relief that their suffering/decline was over, sadness about the end of an era. Even though the losses were fully anticipated, I was surprised that I felt as sad as I did. I also have a 92-year-old mother and their losses reminded me that I might not have my mom for many more years.

Selling the old house. Relieved but confused. What should do with the extra fund? How to avoid misappropriating the extra income that I have. I am also grateful. Because who would want to buy a house that is badly maintained? But God made it happened.

My husband and I drove to Montana from Virginia with out parrot Zorro to spend 5 weeks visiting my parents. Parts of the trip were harrowing. Parts were fun. We did a lot of work. I caught Hand Foot and Mouth virus. The toughest thing was seeing how much older my parents look and how hard it is for them to get around. The best part was just being with them. I miss home so very, very much.

I am a savta. Transformed. To see my daughter as an eema has been amazing. To meet my first grandchild priceless. I am inspired and all i want to do and be is a savta.

This past year, I have made a few big commitments. Of these though, the most meaningful to me is adopting a dog. I started as a foster for an organization that brings stray puppies from the Caribbean. In meeting Mario, I did not fall in love at first sight. He was certainly cute, and I thought it would be a fun few weeks with a puppy in the house. When I brought him home though, Adam looked at me and said, "how will we ever give him back...he's perfect". He was and we wound up, after a few detours, adopting him. I have had dogs before, both growing up and as a young adult. But never have I co-owned a dog with a partner and been able to provide such a good home and routine for a pet as we are able to do with Henry. It is easier for me to wake up in the morning because I am getting up to let him out and to feed him. I get home earlier from work because I don't stop at the grocery store, Marshall's and the bank on the way. I am outside every day at least once, as he needs a walk in the morning and afternoon. On the weekends, Adam and I schedule our day around where we want to take him on a hike. This little guy has improved my overall well-being in so many ways, and I am so grateful that he joined us. I look at him with such adoration, and love his quirks. I feel proud of how easy he is to bring places, and how much people get a kick out of him. I look so forward to getting home to him every day, and getting a "hug" from him upon my arrival. I am also brought to how grateful I am to have such a good boyfriend, who shares in loving this creature with me, who supports me in taking the best care of him, and who, at the end of the day, I love and genuinely feel loved by. In this past year, I have seen my house become a home, and for this, I am so thankful and happy.

I guess the biggest thing that happened this year would be trying to get into the stock market. (Marijuana stocks to be exact). It was an epic fail. I lost money, and had to hide the fact that I lost money. Just as anyone would I never admitted how much lost. What I actually lost was a little respect for myself. I was very stressed by all this. I felt the only to begin again was to make extreme changes. I quit smoking marijuana and began taking medication for anxiety. Both of witch have had a very positive effect on my entire life and my family. I stopped fighting and arguing with my wife and children because of the anxiety medication. Making my relationships at home much happier. And having not spent money on a continuous level to buy marijuana, I no longer have to lie all the time about money or what I am doing every day. My loss was my gain.

my husband had to have 5 bypass surgery on his heart. stressfull. lack of sleep. difficult to pay attention to things that normally come easy to me. have to pay extra attention to husband to keep him on track. children minimally cooperating with household chores which is normal for them but stressful for me because i dont have my husbands help which means i have to do it all by myself. I have had to step back and prioritize. I realize that the normal flow of income can be derailed and I need to work and minimizing debt because there is a possiblity that I wont be able to pay on excess debt. ie credit cards, loans

I changed jobs. For the most part I feel that it was a positive decision. It came at the right time in my life - I'm able to spend quality time with my family and balance my work and home life a little more than I would have in my previous job. At the time it was the best option available to me. At times I look back and wonder whether I stunted my career by making the move, whether I would have thrived and succeeded in balancing it all. Whether I jumped the gun. At other times I feel that this was how it was meant to be and I am grateful to have landed on this opportunity. Only time will tell. I will be interested to see how I feel about it a year out.

My business partner, Marilyn, died last October. Even typing that sentence makes me stop and hold back tears. I miss her her optimism and her practical bullheadedness. She was my best friend, my business spouse, my confident, and my north star. I find myself thinking about how she would handle situations each day. She makes me braver. But she has left a hole in my heart. Any success this year makes me wistful--I wish Marilyn were here to share them with. When I feel frustrated and helpless, no one else listens with such deep empathy. No one else in my life--not my boyfriend or my other friends--is part of my life the way she was. Who else can I tell absolutely everything to?

In the past year i've learned a lot about myself. My wants, needs, desires, abilities, and more. After losing my job & being unemployed for about 9 months I didn't see the end of the road. I only saw what was in front of me at that moment and for me it wasn't looking too great. Yes I wanted to leave that job but would have preferred to find another one first. Once I got back to work (some time after) I dove right in. Now as I sit at the desk of my new position typing this I am overall a happy camper but still unhappy about where I am in life at this moment. I know my potential. It isn't being shown here. It isn't their fault and the people are nice but i'm over it. I need to creatively express myself and since I've graduated college, I haven't had a position that allowed me to do that. I ask the Lord every day to guide me. Or at least find me a man lol but I guess in his time everything will work out. So overall (after all that babbling) a significant experience would be losing my job(Yay & Nay), being unemployed (depressing at times but I got a lot of sleep lol), finding a new job, (it's been hell), landing one through a temp agency(Eh, I need more), and still single through it all(No Love) lol. So right now I am grateful for all my parents have done for me (My boos) and highly anticipating the next steps (soon) in my life. Ready for a change(NY maybe). Ready for Love. Ready for a new job. Ready, Ready, Ready!

I started teaching at Cerro Coso Community College just before Rosh Hashana last year. Granted it's only adjunct right now, but it feels so good to be back in the classroom and teaching adult students to love, or at least not hate, Maths. I thank G*d for the opportunity to be back in the classroom, after a year of not teaching it really brought me back to life. I am also inspired by the strength of my students, many of whom are coming back to school after many years.

After announcing our intention to divorce to our kids in June and then broader to friends and family, my husband Jeff and I separated. He moved out of the house into an apartment at the end of August. I am relieved, to a certain extent. I'm a bit sad too. But mostly I feel hopeful that the next year and beyond will put me in a better place as a person. I look forward to "finding myself" and living a happier life.

Taking on a new job. There were so many unknowns and I was so afraid that I wouldn't be good enough. I wasn't sure I would know how to reach my students and if I would be accepted by my peers. I have learned through this year that I am capable of an insane amount of patience. I have learned that trust and unconditional love can build the strongest relationships, and that once you've built a solid relationship with trust and unconditional love that anything is possible. I have learned that the greatest accomplishments are achieved through the smallest of steps and to celebrate the tiniest wins. I am grateful, I am inspired.

My mother died in November. She was 61. It was completely unexpected for me even though she had been struggling with severe mental illness for some time. She was in a lot of emotional pain and had a lot of anger. She overdosed on alcohol and pain medicine. Despite her religious fervor she never applied the rules to herself, allowing her to be a rebellious aggressor. I am both both grateful and relieved that she is at peace now; although, I'm also sad that she died alone and we didn't get the chance to say goodbye. I'd pushed her away in the last year of her life. I couldn't be with her when she wasn't sober. I had no compassion for her addiction and often chastised her. I wish that I could have done more to convince her to get help although she adamantly refused that she had any problems to begin with. I did the best I could as her daughter. I love her and I miss her.

Our Rabbi retired. The adjustment to the new Rabbi(s) requires a lot of personal adjustment and effort. I am not sure how I feel. It's impact is still being processed. How I feel is all over the place. I am not grateful or relieved. They have been here a year and I am still processing this.

My daughter was born slightly over a year ago. I am incredibly grateful for this experience. Every day brings a new experience and makes me appreciate my precious baby more and more. Even though she has been a relatively easy baby, this has been a very hard year for my relationship, my friendships, and for my sense of self. It has taught me how much I have to work at every aspect of my life and to not take anything for granted

I 'went skydiving. It was a fantastic experience and taught me that most of the time there is nothing to be scared of. Now I feel inspired to 'take the leap' in many aspects of life.

I am a very light Jew, I think if god exists, live is not but a passing moment if it does not, you never know when you die how long you live, So just take the goodness in live don't do any harm intentionally and help everybody you can always. But my wife is catholic one day entering our building garage I got mad because I told my wife that someone had put a statue floating of the virgin Marie in the wall and that was not in order no one should put religious symbols in common grounds. But i was the only one that could see it. So we approach the place and it was not there, it was the hole were you put the fire hose and the hose and the canister where there in their place. I took it as a sign that yes god exists maybe not as one or another see it, but in many ways it does not matter how you worship him just believe. So I will not forget my Jewish traditions but I believe that every religion worships the same god and all are true and have worth so I became also a pantheist. I am so now I am grateful and a little more inspired.

I celebrated my 35th birthday this year. I didn't think it was going to put many things in perspective. I am grateful for my blessings and my health. I just feel more motivated to really figure out what I want and to get my "ducks in a row"

I tried to freeze my eggs. And it didn't go so well. Made me accept the prospect of not having kids. Which was very scary at first. But I guess what really scared me was my life not going as planned or me missing out on a milestone. With that prospect I came to realize and accept that one cannot plan out your life in those terms. I am trying now to take life on in a much shorter time frame. Kinda like a five-year-plan at a time. I feel less attached but also less hung up.

My wife had some meaningful success at work, giving her much more job security. I am relieved because her immense stress was having a negative influence on her, our household and our relationship.

There were two things that happened this year of significance: one. My wife and I opened up a garden boutique store. Neither of us has any real retail experience and so this was a stretch for us. For my wife, it was a career changer..and so for her, a much bigger change than for myself. Still...stressful wife- stressful husband. We have made into our own and love it. After one year, we have grown in leaps and bounds with the store. More emotionally than financially. The other big thing is that for the first time in 5 years, I've been busy enough with my photography to almost quit my second job of waiting tables. The photography has been great..and I knew eventually it would be. Yet, the bib thing that this allowed, was for me to save lots of money. This was huge for us in terms of eleviating the kind of financial stress that has been a burden for us the last several years. Left has been good to me thus far and sometimes I think I have it luckier than most. I love my wife, I love my life. I'm doing what I love to do and making just enough money to do a little better than 'just getting by'. My family is well..and if there's one regret is that I don't see them enough..but a modern family is what I have and we are all so spread out, that it can be challenging to fulfill that.

I am grateful for being in a relationship that has required me to address my "stuff" addressing these things, I know will help me to grow as an individual and be a better partner, father, son and friend. The greatest growth in our lives happens during our greatest challenges.

My autistic son developed an obsession with the neighborhood pool. It didn't matter what time of day it was, if he had his swim trunks or not, if anyone was going with him. If the door was opened, he was running full tilt to the pool. He is five and he's too big and strong for me to carry him when he's having a meltdown. Not to mention I also have a two year old son to watch/manage. It meant we couldn't go outside unless we hustled him into the car and drove some distance (he has a great sense of direction ). I hate to drive (although I'm getting better) so I felt like I was quite literally trapped in the house with my children. Eventually we bought a wading pool and the obsession faded. But it was very hard for a long time and made my summer very stress filled and unhappy. Although the obsession with the pool has passed, he does still does obsess over certain destinations, so playing in the backyard or just going for a walk is a thing of the past. And overall, yes it makes me sad. The good that has come out of it that it has forced me to get better at driving and do it more often.

I was able to serve as a support person for my sister as she donated a kidney to my cousin. To be a witness to this incredible experience was a beautiful, inspiring gift. The most emotional and touching moment was when my sister and cousin saw each other after surgery. They shared a look of love and awe that I don't think I will ever see again. I'm grateful that the recovery has gone well for both my sister and cousin, the kidney is functioning better than most peoples original kidneys, and it has solidified the bond between our families. My sister's selfless act has pushed me to be more giving and look for ways to go beyond the usual acts of kindness. While I will likely never have an experience like this, I will continue to look for ways to help others in small and big ways.

I moved back to the US after living abroad (in the UK) for over 2 years. It was hard to leave but also great to come home to familairity and mostly, very happy to be living in the same country as family again.

I dropped my son off at college. Inspired and grateful that he dis so well with scholarships that we could do this thing. The bill hurt but are feasible. Grateful that I have the opportunity to participate and support. More of this capability would be nice!

I'm currently in the process of earning my 200-hour yoga teacher training certification. The process is proving to be one filled with growth- mental, emotional, and within my practice. Through the various meditation and self reflection exercises, I've done a lot of introspection into trying to find (or re-find) who the 'real me' is. I'm worried that I've strayed from that person, that something is missing now that I've grown up and left the bubble of college that allowed me to be whatever it was that I wanted to be. Doing this training is something that, I'm hoping, will help me get back to that person, whatever that might mean. I'm grateful for the process, inspired by the self-analysis I've been doing so far, and quite honestly scared of where it might take me. What if, at the end, I figure out that I have changed beyond what I can fix? Or what if I discover that relationship I've poured myself into for the last 2 years isn't, in fact, the right one for me? I want to challenge myself to remain true to who I am, to be confident in my authentic self and content with where and who I am. I also know that it's a continuum, and a journey rather than a race to a finish line of enlightenment or nirvana. I feel incredibly challenged, to find what's right for me and make it work within the framework of my life. I feel incredibly grateful for my family, who is so supportive of me, and I want to work on letting them know how important they are to me, and I want to work on having a healthy relationship with both myself and my significant other, without nagging or putting down, which I think I do to both myself and to him. This training is pushing me to figure out who and where I am, and to be content. It's a scary, wonderful, inspirational opportunity and experience.

In mid-January, my almost 90 year old mother fell and broke her hip. It has been a constant challenge to keep up with the changes that have happened to my mother since then. The spiraling downward of her physical and mental bodies, has been hard to watch. To see the aging process first hand brings up many feelings and questions about my own journey of being in a physical body and, whether for a long time or short, what is it really about. I am grateful for being exposed to those issues in that I have gained compassion. At the same time, I get angry that life is not honored enough to allow us to choose when to let go. Medicine keeps us alive beyond what Natural Selection would have it be. I have had moments of resentment that I must take care of my mother. And that she never was a mentally healthy person to raise children. And this is all mixed with a connection with my mother that is biologically based. There is inspiration, or maybe an inner survival mechanism, that grows from this experience, which is to live fully, to address my own mental issues, and to hopefully, leave when I am no longer a consciously participating person.

The most significant experience I've had this year was opening my business, Queen of Hearts Fitness. My business partner and I worked for a really long time to get this open and it was like conceiving and, gestating, and having a baby. The baby is here and now its all about keeping the baby alive and growing and thriving. I've learned so much, and I've loved 90% of it. I hope in a year I can say that we are still doing well and the baby is getting bigger and bigger!

In the past year, I dropped criminal charges against my father for molesting me as a child. I did this for a number of reasons. 1) It had taken three years out of my life already and wasn't going to wrap up any time soon. Every time we had a trial date, the judge postponed it because there were more pressing cases to be heard. There was no risk of me forgetting my testimony (any more than I had already forgotten it over the decades) and they didn't feel my dad was an imminent threat so he wasn't being held in custody. Any case that was more urgent would always bump us off the docket. 2) Despite the fact that my father is guilty of what he'd been charged with, it bothered me that our legal system had him $80.000.00 in the hole and counting, when he hadn't even been convicted of anything yet. 3) After three years of being harangued by my mother and siblings, I started to doubt myself. I couldn't, in confidence, give evidence anymore. 4) I was feeling suicidal at the time, due to an alteration in anti-depressant medication. It was time to lay the ghost to rest. Since that time I have severed ties with my whole family. It has been bittersweet. I realize that, even if they would say all the things I want to hear - that they love me, support me, are sorry, etc. - that it won't restore what has been lost. That the only healing available comes from inside of me. I am relieved to no longer have to justify myself to my family. I am lighter, for not constantly having to remind myself that I am not the terrible person they think I am. But I am also sad that we couldn't use this opportunity to be honest with each other about the past and to come to some place of reconciliation and peace. Yesterday, I found out my dad has cancer. I'm so glad I confronted him before he got sick, or died. I know he came from an abusive home as well. He has never been a happy man and now his life is almost over. I feel sorry for the boy inside of him.

My spouse finally opened up and invited me to share the pain and suffering their coming out experience as transgender had caused me. For nearly four years, they seemed to sweep under the rug my concerns, framing my worries as "not being supportive." This during a time of great transition, too -- we moved twice, our daughter was born, I finished my doctorate, and started working. It was so stressful and painful to feel alone and unlistened to. Once I told them I was seriously considering divorce and we began marriage counseling, things began to improve, but I still felt like I was looking for my exit. However, during our anniversary weekend (12 years in August) we went on our first vacation without our 4 year old daughter. During that time, they asked me to tell them all the hurt I had felt. Rather than become defensive, they listened, absorbed it, apologized. We finally were able to recommit to our marriage. I still feel the need for solitude and aloneness, but not the same "make it go away" feeling I had about our relationship. I think this is a great achievement, and I hope I can develop a better sense of the direction I want our relationship to go from here.

This summer brought the ling awaited wedding of my daughter, Sydney to her partner Rob. I actually was not a part of the wedding planning, just a guest. I was happy to see them plan their day and to get the ceremony and reception they wanted. I didn't realize how I would feel until I took Nixon downstairs to where she getting ready and realized I was nit part of the hubbub. She had gathered her group of friends and they clustered about getting her ready. When the ceremony started her father, my ex-husband Steve, walked her down the aisle. Suddenly, I felt very left out and wondered if people wondered why I was so uninvolved. I felt very disconnected and like I was on the outside. The realization dawned....this was about them and the life they were starting together. No one was really paying attention to me. Once I realized that I was able to focus on enjoying the moment and supporting Sydney and Rob and Nixon and meeting Rob's family and friends. I watched my grandchildren dash about and enjoyed the food and talked to the guests. I focused on the wonderful feelings of celebration and love and that I was so thankful that my daughter had made it through difficult and trying times and had emerged to enjoy this much deserved new beginning.

Survived a big round of layoffs at work – layoffs that severely impacted my department and claimed two close friends. I was initially shocked by the news, and deeply saddened for my two colleagues. I am still bewildered by the company’s decision. And while I am very grateful to still have my job of 20+ years – and moreover my health insurance, I don’t really know why I wasn’t laid off too. Very unsettling. Yet I am inspired by one colleague who embraced this “new opportunity” and enthusiastically embarked on a cross-country road trip of the U.S. with her dad. What spunk! While she gleefully sets off on new adventures, I can’t help but think that if the layoff had hit me, I’d be in tears looking down from a bridge somewhere.

I have been involved in a Jewish/Muslim dialogue group. Through the group, I and others have developed meaningful relationships. The relationships were tested during the recent Gaza conflict and are now in need of repair.

Wow. There are so many significant experiences to choose from. It has been quite a year. I decided to take my life to the next level and made two significant changes this year: 1) I decided to build on my education and signed up for a certificate program to become a leadership coach. I plan to transition out of my current job next year and become a coach full time. 2) I ended a three year relationship that was no longer serving me or my higher good. It was a painful separation, but I am proud of my decision to take a stand for myself and my desires to live a bigger, fuller life. I feel excited about what comes next -- it could be anything!

My first answer was the kindergarden shooting affected my sole and makes me question what kind of people are we becoming. I expect more of us as a nation and a people. I AM SAD THE USA ACCEPTS NOTHING BEING DONE TO AID THESE EVENTS. TOO NUMEROUS TO LIST. why?

Travel to England and Ireland. It was amazing and fantastic with a few downs and learning experiences but mostly ups and being in the zone. I'm very grateful for the experience and relieved that it is ove.r no resentments

This past year my grandmother was hospitalized for a serious heart condition. She underwent surgery and survived, which was both relieving and inspiring since she somehow found the strength to go on a road trip with her cousin, covering 20-plus states!

I 26 and I had a liver transplant on January 5. It was A huge relief. Some complications have Occurred. I am currently back on the transplant List waiting for another organ. 3rd liver's The charm right? It's scary, exhausting, & humbling. God bless.

This year I moved to France for 8 months to teach English. It was both a wonderful, exhilarating experience of a lifetime, and a time full of challenges, doubt, loneliness, and questions. I am so glad to have done it. I feel that while it answered some questions for me, it also raised a whole host of others. During that time, I got engaged to the love of my life. That journey, too, has been both absolutely wonderful and eye-opening. I came to understand that loving each other means loving ALL of each other, and I think we are both learning to do that better and loving each other more for it. I am so grateful for him, and for the experience of the last year. I feel I have a lot more to do, to be the person I want to be. I have so many questions - and I am trying to figure out how I can, as they say, "live the questions" instead of angsting after the answers. I feel both relieved to come through the emotional turmoil of the resurfacing of my depression while in France, and awed at the support and love I've experienced. Filled to the brim with emotions, questions.

Happened just over a year ago. I gave birth to a seemingly healthy daughter. The day she was born we noticed that something was wrong with her pupils -- they were really big. The pediatrician told us that it was normal. Five weeks later we moved to Denver and the night she and I flew in she started vomiting after each attempt to nurse. After a week in the NICU we were told that she was going to have emergency heart surgery. They also found that she had a very rare genetic eye disorder called aniridia. I spent a total of three weeks in the hospital with her, while my husband started a new job. It was an exceedingly traumatic time for us. Added on to the regular stresses of moving, starting a new job, buying a house... Am I grateful, no, not grateful exactly. I am grateful that we all survived. Am I resentful, no. These were the cards we were dealt and we have learned how to cope. I am grateful for my daughter and my husband. She has such a strong spirit, as do her parents. She is a never ending delight, all the more because of the very delicate and scary way her life started out. I am not sure that I can say that I'm grateful for having experienced this great suffering, but it opened a whole new level of emotion and pain for me. I am able to empathize now in a way that I wasn't able to before.

A few nights after my cousin passed away in a car accident, I was lying in bed and before sleep I began to do a self-Reiki session. I was thinking of him, reaching out to him - and I began to have the "feeling/vision" of rolling and spinning, the image of cracked glass and I was surrounded by a blackness. I was frightened. I sat upright in bed and then I turned the light on to go to sleep. The rest of the night I tossed and I turned.

We moved my parents into a retirement facility... and then moved them back into their home 5 months later. They are in their mid 80s. We were happy that they were safe with support in the Center. They were not happy their. This has made me think a lot about what a good life is when you are getting old and what being in control of your own destiny means to health and well being.

This past year, I had that moment of realizing that Josh was never going to love me the way that I loved him, but that someday, someone will, and that not only would I survive this, I would thrive. So far, I'd say I've thrived, and truthfully speaking, I love Josh, but I am no longer in love with him. And yeah, I'd say that I am grateful

A friend passed away. Forty five years ago, She and her husband were mentors and second parents to me and many of my friends. We were planning a reunion to honor them but she died before we completed plans. It inspired me to hurry and let people know you appreciate them before it's too late.

During the first week of December 2013, a few months after my wife and I bought our first condo, the toilet in the unit above ours flooded. Water poured down a vent that led to the bathroom on the second floor of our unit, collected on our bathroom floor, then seeped through the floor. From there, water poured down through a light fixture in our kitchen (which was right below our second floor bathroom) and down our kitchen wall. The water in our kitchen wall collected under our dining room floor, damaging the hardwood. A water removal company came out shortly after the incident and had to remove the hardwood in the dining room, as well as half of the wall in order to dry everything and inspect for mold. This exposed screws and nails in the floor and all our kitchen water pipes in the wall. While these things were exposed, our living room and dining room were inaccessible, not to mention unsafe for our one-year-old son. Coincidentally, a hot-water pipe common to the building began leaking a few weeks after the water damage occurred. The pipe ran underneath our kitchen floor and water bubbled up around the tiles throughout the day. We put towels down on the kitchen floor but they would be soaked within minutes. The cost to repair all this was almost $10,000. Thankfully, our insurance covered the water damage and the condo association paid the repairs for the leaking hot-water pipe. However, because we had to go through insurance and the condo association, the repair process was slow. Between the inaccessible living room and dining room, and the water in the kitchen, our first floor was almost unlivable for over two months. Throughout the ordeal, I was bitter and discouraged. I hated coming home and having to tip-toe around the screws and nails in the floor, hated seeing the exposed pipes in the wall. I felt bad for my son who wanted to run around and play but was cooped up in a bedroom. I also felt helpless because there wasn't anything I could do but wait for others to do something. After everything was over, I came to appreciate our condo a lot more. Despite having two floors, it's a relatively small unit, 900 sq ft at the most. But for two months, I experienced what it was like for a young family of three to live in half that space.

Twice this year, and a couple times in the past couple years, I have reconnected with a long-ago ex. Our chemistry is electric, and it's that electricity that puts my hormones in overdrive, and subsequently leads me to think about a relationship, a future. That's usually the point that he disappears. We are both so incredibly busy that even under the best circumstances, we could probably only devote one day a week to each other, and I have a child, which is understandably intimidating. But, I feel like I haven't been respecting myself by allowing this person to do the same thing to me repeatedly. We tell each other that we love each other, and we mean it, but I think that my love naturally leads to bigger things while his goes nowhere. I've already tried the no expectations, take it for what it is route, and I just can't do it (Sorry, Gurus). The last time he disappeared was three months ago, and I didn't take it as badly as before. Then, a couple of weeks ago, I get the text "Hey." Wow, I know that I just should have let it go but I responded "Hello." He told me that he had taken too much on again, and was going crazy. I told him that was my status quo. He asked if my shoulders need a rub, I said I didn't think they'd mind, but then cut it short and said goodnight. Haven't heard from him since, and thankfully, I haven't reached out. I don't want to feel like this anymore, I think that I deserve more.

Being transferred/promoted to sales. I am extremely grateful. I was nervous and was resentful when it first happened, but now I am relieved and grateful. I have an opportunity for a great and successful future and it is going better than I ever could have expected.

My son had a severe anxiety/depression episode leading to his hospitalization. Much of the episode was due to his failure to consistently take anti-depressants and to consistently see a counselor. However, part was due to pressures he felt from me, and our family. I am relieved he was able to seek some help and appears to have gained some insights. Grateful that his two older sisters were there to help him and that our family rallied. Resentful that he did not come to us earlier and sometimes have a feeling of being manipulated. Frustrated that he still does not seem to recognize the aid the drug and counseling could provide. Hopeful, in that in some way he always pulls through on his own. Afraid, the he will face all of this again and again and that the outcome may be worse.

During this year we went to visit a prospective place to live. It is an hour and a half away from where we work now, but we decided to explore the possibility because the quality of living there. When I entered the place for the first time, I clearly heard a voice telling me "You are home". That visit has affected how I see my living conditions and how I see what others are doing to our places. I'm grateful for it because it gave me some needed perspective. We are scared of taking the step because it is getting out of our comfort zone (and an hour commute is not something to take lightly). However, when I was to just start writing this, the sale representative from the place called me, after several months and asked me how we were doing. Coincidences?

I WAS HAVING A DIFFICULT TIME PARENTING MY SON, WE WHERE GROWING APART AND BEHAVIOR ISSUES WHERE GROWING DAILY. I FELT LIKE I WAS LOSING HIM AND THAT WE WHERE ON THE WRONG PATH. I ULTIMATELY REACHED OUT FOR HELP THROUGH THE SCHOOL SYSTEM FOR GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT. I WAS NERVOUS , DUE TO HAVING TO ASK FOR HELP BUT ALSO DUE TO THE FACT THAT I WAS GOING TO HAVE TO TRUST THAT THE GUIDANCE OFFERED WOULD WORK. I WAS SCARED THAT I MAY LOSE MY SON OR THAT PEOPLE WOULD VIEW ME AS AN UN-FIT MOTHER. ONCE I RESIGNED TO THE IDEA THAT I COULD NOT DO IT ALONE , CHANGES STARTED TO HAPPEN. WE ARE STILL IN PROCESS BUT I HAVE HOPE AND CONFIDENCE THAT IT WILL ALL WORK OUT. I AM GRATEFUL.

We had to decide whether or not to let our 14-year-old go to boarding school. It was difficult for a lot of reasons: was he too young to go away? Would he get enough guidance there? What about the money? Would he become disengaged from our religious life? Did sending him away mean we didn't care or did care about him? In the end it seemed to be the right decision. He's happy, and he's doing well. I feel proud of him because he's adventuresome and confident enough to try this, and proud of myself and his dad for letting him go. I also feel a little guilty because everyday life is so much easier and more peaceful without him around - not to mention tidier. I feel hopeful - and apprehensive. It's going well and I really, really hope it continues this way.

This has been a year of firsts. For the first time in my life, I have taken the initiative to start a major project, take all of the steps to own it, see it through, and watch all of it's moving parts come together to form a cohesive whole. Buying the house on Catskill was a frightening thing, but I am grateful--for it gives me hope that I will finally have the resources, both monetary and physiological, to move forward. In the course of this job, I find myself consciously making choices. I am choosing not to be angry, not to rush and be angry, but rather to savor the moments, and appreciate the time I am investing here. It is my sincere hope that this leaves me a better person, stronger, and more prepared to move on with my life. For the first time I have been rejected by someone I dessired. I have lost my connection with IEA--to a career I loved. I have lost my connection with Anthony--the first man I desired to date after my traumatic relationship with Adam. At first I chose negative coping mechanisms. The night Anthony said he didn't want to see me, I drowned myself in whisky. But now I chose strength. I no longer worry--I no longer regret the things I wish to be, and would rather be, doing. Instead I view my actions as leading me to a place where I will have the things I desire, and do the things I wish to do. Each and every day is an investment in my future. Yet I have wasted many hours, and many days on hollow prusuits this year. Phil was a waste of time and energy. I know he cares for me, but he and I can never be together. His career, and my energy have already taken us apart. Yet I have not faced this. I started seeing Kevin without cutting off this relationship. Yet for this I feel no guilt. For neither connection can truly last. The realist in me knows I my time here is short--and their time in each of their places is also fleeting. So, rather than invest in myself, hone my skills, nurture my ties to family and my interests, I engaged in a meaningless fling. However, for this I do not feel hollow. I have simply learned of a new form of relationship. That things can be good, for a time, and that longevity is not a key to fulfillment. Above all, in the past year, I have conquered demons, and I have grown. At this time, I feel younger than ever, brimming with the absolute knowledge that I will succeed, and primed for the next chapter in my life. More than ever before, I feel hopeful--all that remains is for me to decide in which direction to channel this energy, and to remain positive.

I have met someone who has helped me a great deal with learning about awareness & spirituality . I have been on an exciting journey that is making more and more sense of the things I have experienced throughout my life. I feel at ease & for the first time in a long time I look forward to learning & trying to use the knowledge I do manage to absorb on a daily basis. This journey is inspiring, exhausting, frustrating, fun but most of all full of love.

In this past year I was made redundant and I got myself a full time job that pays quite well. I'm greatfull that I have a job that will pay the bills and keep me comfortable. I have also joined the MET which I'm excited and nervous about. Hopefully this time next year I will read this back and be in and on the streets.

I suppose it is a pre-experience, for I will become a grandmother in February. I don't want to minimize the joy and delight and anticipation I feel - for those feelings are ever present. What I didn't realize was that I would also experience a deeper anxiety about the finite limits of my life. My children having children. How is that possible when I can still smell the deliciousness of their shampooed hair, that discreet place on the backs of their necks which I would kiss ad nauseum? How can it be that I am now sixty - requiring that I scroll farther and farther and farther down when a computer program requires my birth date? As delightful and grateful as I am for this amazing life I have been given, how can I bear the thought of it ending? I want to revel in the pleasure and the nachas of holding my son's son, experience the spiritual connection of one generation holding another, And so it goes..

I married someone that is my most loyal, loving and forgiving friend. And she is beautiful!!

I recently flew to Houston to see my brother (who is in the end-stage of brain cancer) one last time. We hung out with his family over the weekend and then, on Monday afternoon, we sat alone together for a few short moments and we said our last goodbye. By Thanksgiving time this year, my baby brother of 52 years will be gone, but that time in his hospital room will be something I will never forget. What a remarkable thing to tell someone how much you love them and have them say it back to you. It touched me deeply.

Our local library system offered a writing workshop. Only 8 individuals were permitted by the teacher. Those interested were asked to submit a 20 p manuscript by e-mail to the teacher who would then accept only 8. I have been interested in writing, but had no ms on my computer. I am very much a non-computer user. But I wanted to try and therefore sat down, approximately ten days before the deadline, wrote the necessary 20 pp (two chapters) on a subject I have been mulling for decades, and sent it off two days early. It took me hours to figure out how to send an e-mail from wordpad. In the end I sent the wrong version, with uncorrected typos. Then I sent a corrected version with apologies. That arrived late. I did not make it into the class but I am now on Chapter 9 and enjoying the experience. An old friend from my first year of grad school is now a retired English teacher and she has been giving me feedback and I just keep writing. I can now send two chapters at a time from separate word documents. I guess the experience is proving inspiring.

I entered into a relationship for the first time in 7 years. It has been a learning experience that I am grateful for. But it fills me with fear of being hurt again. We both have baggage from previous relationships, of course, and it takes its toll on us, sometimes.

On a practical level there was one recent experience. I was able to fly to Boston to take care of my mother and give my sister a break. I can see things getting worse over time, but this is one of the major reasons I retired early from my day job. On a spiritual level, there is no one experience, but overall it is nice to have time to do some learning and I hope to do more of it.

The loss of my husband who passed away three weeks ago. We had been together for 30 years and the loss is unexplainable. He was not Jewish, but shared each year in the celebration and joy of each New Year. He was able to inspire and encourage positive change while gently pointing out lessons that were learned. I hope to keep that precious part of him with me

One year ago, everything was bliss. I celebrated with my reconstituted family. A few months later, it came to light that I had been having some VERY inappropriate conversations with an old friend. My wife took that as a betrayal on par with cheating, and we are no longer together. I'm angry at her for not loving me enough to forgive, and hate myself for putting her in that position. I have a new friend who would be great, but I am unable to really open myself to her, still desperate to try to fix the hurt with my ex, and maybe even reconcile, as hard as that would be for both of us. It has destroyed my relationship with my daughter, left me lonely and scared and broken.

I was diagnosed with inoperable prostate cancer. I am alone and certainly feel that way. I was afraid; I probably still am.

Once again i feel much of this year was defined by loss and grief, but this time it was its impact on my husband not me. The burden of grief has changed him and placed me in a new role. I'm not so good at it yet. I'm not grateful for the grief, and i've struggled with deep resentment. I grapple with a different, more imaginary loss: The life I thought I'd have, what I figured would've happened by now, "where" I thought we'd be. I think burning these expectations on their own pyre will release me into inspiration. I'm working on that.

There are two for me. My husband's retirement and the birth of my third grandchild, the daughter and first child of my son. The relationship with my husband has been only sixteen years. Most of that time he has been unhappy and unfulfilled with his work. In retirement I have found a new man. He is happier and much more available to me. I did not experience his presence in my daily life ( I have been retired for seven years) as intrusive as I was anticipating. I am grateful that we are rediscovering each other. Relieved that some of my fears were unwarranted. Inspired by our shared exploration in this phase of life. The birth of this grand daughter holds special meaning for me. She has opened my eyes to re experience the tender and caring side of my son. I am grateful that they welcome my involvement even though I live at a distance. I am relieved that parenthood fits him well. I carry no resentment. I am inspired by the way he and his wife manage the challenges of their ongoing lives.

My Mom died. Sad. Empty. Tired. Fat. A little bit of relief. Worried about what to do with her stuff.

In the past year I travelled to Costa Rica, without my husband nor children, to meet my cousin for 5 days, then a friend for the other 5 days. I was able to really relax and enjoy the experience of travelling to a new country. The sights, the sounds... everything about the place was so inviting and brought peace to my soul. It was just what this momma needed! Since then, when I meditate, I often turn my mind to the waterfalls of CR... where I let go of so much.

I decided to apply to medical school. This was a big deal for me because I previously lacked the confidence to take the entrance exam and dedicate myself to this rigorous life path. I am now in the middle of more applications and interviews, and am more than ever grateful for all the support of my family and friends in this process. I am hopeful that I will be able to do good unto others in the world through this training.

I got a new Girlfriend. inspired me to be heappier on the average day

I finalized my divorce. I am grateful, relived, resentful, and inspired. It was just a day - a letter in the mail with some court signatures. "Nothing" changed . . . we were over a year separated and years and years past pretending we had a healthy, strong marriage. My ex was dating. I was dating. Our daughter was adjusting. It should not have really mattered and yet it did. Immensely. I think it is more about the "failure" in the closure (like an athlete leaving the field with injury or accepting defeat before the end of the contest) than anything else but it was a profoundly confusing day. I am glad it is over. Nearly a year later I am happier, healthier, stronger, and better off mentally and emotionally. My ex-wife and I are "friends" (we have very few dust ups and we seem to enjoy each other more and more all the time). Our child is doing better and better. Life is full and good again. I appreciate it but I wish I never went through it (if that makes sense).

I decided to pursue my degree, 20 years out of high school. After dusting off some old community college credits, I should have my associate's degree by the end of Spring. It has made me recognize that I can achieve great things for myself at any age.

I had an old boyfriend come back into my life, wanting to move forward with me--it completely shocked me: I was not thinking about it (we'd been talking as friends at a distance & had seen him once a yr ago) but it was like a bolt of lightning....and now we are working on making it a reality! I am NERVOUS because I want this more than I ever thought I would, and so I'm scared it won't actually happen. Having my heart opened up is so vulnerable!! If it does actually happen/work, I KNOW it will be life-changing!!!

My 96 yo Mother suffered a stroke during the High Holidays, 2013. I moved her into assisted living. Physically moved furniture and sorted through her belongings and clothes. Took over her financial affairs. I live two lives. Sometimes I am exhausted by the effort. She had three overnight hospital stays this year. Two long stays in a rehab center. Many ER and Urgent Care visits. Countless dentist visits for new teeth. Audiology visits for hearing aids. I cringe every time the phone rings. I have no other "life". I visit her twice on most days. Take her for walks or for meals, because the meals in her expensive assisted living place are often disgusting. Never Kosher. Try to get her ready for bed at night. I don't always like her or my daily chores and responsibilities. She doesn't "get" the need to stay safe and/or use her walker. I remind and often yell at her to lock the walker before she sits or stands. I exhaust myself. Grateful that a year has passed and we are still here. Inspired by my strength. Always fearful that she'll fall -- again. An only child, I have no other choice. I receive a call and go meet the EMS. Grateful that my kids are healthy and strong and my four grandkids are thriving. I haven't seen my son and his family for over a year. I have not been away for a year and a half. Not resentful. Surprised that this is where I am.

I essentially renewed my love and dedication for life to my husband. And to myself. We are one but we are also individuals. It is important to enjoy meaningful time together and make time to nourish ourselves as individuals too. I feel grateful knowing that I am sharing my life with him. We are fortunate to have everything we have including our wonderful, healthy and happy boys. I am inspired to live, love, work, play, think, feel and contribute.

I moved to Chicago for a new job. I had spent three years in DC and was getting bored with the work and disenchanted with the people and process. Though, I felt like an expert at the time, I realize now my actual knowledge was superficial, and I've quickly lost most of my deeper ideas on the subject of the work there. My emotions about moving from DC to Chicago were surprisingly weak, I wasn't rejuvenated or racked with nerves about the transition, I just slid away. I didn't see much distress in the friends I left in DC about my leaving, maybe I wasn't there long enough. I think my closest friends could tell I was going to leave. I'm always going to leave. I am proud of myself for making an effort when I got to Chicago to get out there and make friends, try to get to know the place. I met a girl. I hope she is reading this with me when it is emailed to me in year. I undoubtedly love her, but have not said as much just yet. I hope she doesn't leave, but I worry she may be ready for a new city. I found the Chicago winter inspirational. God damn that was harsh. The degree to which friends, colleagues and acquaintances all shared the experience and told stories of everyday things made difficult by record-breaking polar vortices and the constant accoutrements of a never ending winter, experiences and stories which by all right should have been those of urgent pathos, were talked about such neighborly lightheartedness and togetherness, that was inspiriting. I don't know, maybe I just met good people, or maybe that's how it is every winter, but I liked it. Gah, I played it heavy with this question, tomorrow I'll joke.

My father passed away several months ago. He was in his early 60's, and the (executioner) was Alzheimer's disease. Honestly, his death wasn't that big of a deal to me. He had been in the nursing home for about 8 months, and before that he had been going to daycare there for a year or two. He lost his ability to talk some years ago. I guess it's the stereotype that people with alzheimer's forget who their family members are, or mistake them with other people. That never happened. Nothing like that ever happened. If my dad didn't recognize us, he didn't say anything. God, that's the worst, that's the absolute fucking worse. Have you ever seen Memento? Well, I saw that around 2002, and I mentioned that my dad should see it, because it was about a guy whose memory was just about as bad as dad's was. He was diagnosed a couple years later. The last time I saw him was last summer. He was in a wheelchair, and he couldn't talk. He couldn't even sit on his own. He was slouched forward, his head hung over his chest. He couldn't feed himself, he couldn't lift his head, he couldn't keep it lifted if someone else did. He had lost something like 60 pounds in a few months, and the denim at the waist of his jeans was bunching up beneath his belt. I knelt on the floor to get beneath him so I could look up in his eyes and say hi to see if he would recognize me that way. He didn't even recognize me as a human. His eyes weren't dead, they were the same gray-blue they've always been, but they didn't focus, they weren't looking at anything. That was last summer. He died about 6 months later. I never went through a period of terrible grief about his death. We knew it was coming, and he was long gone before he died. I guess, really, I was grieving for the few years before his death. Seeing him the way I did for so long was painful, and in a way his death just meant that I didn't have to see him anymore. Before he died, I would avoid thinking about him (in ANY context) because it made me really depressed. Now that he's gone, I don't hold myself back. There are so many things about my father that I hadn't thought of in years, things I hadn't allowed myself to dwell on in fear of losing composure. I'm thinking about them now, and it does hurt, but it's somehow positive. Thinking about him, I can think about the things he did that inspired me. I notice in myself more of his unique personality quirks than I did before, and it makes me proud. When I was a kid, I was always embarrassed by my dad. I didn't understand how he was bold enough to ask questions or make silly puns even around groups of strangers. Now I realize that this is a trait I continue to strive for. At some point in the last 10 years I lost my egotism. Unfortunately, with it I also lost my confidence. I'm afraid of causing a stir, I don't want to cause anyone any inconvenience, people will think I'm stupid, etc. Honestly, I feel like I would rather just blend into the background and go unnoticed most of the time. But I feel the predisposition, the potential inside me to make dumb "dad jokes", to ask questions even if they may be "pointless", to stand up for myself and to say what I think. To care more about myself as a person than what other people think about me (while maintaining civility). Anyway, it's a struggle, but I'm working toward it. I'm trying to take initiative the way he would in his life. He did a lot of things in his life, and he was the one who started all of them. I've got to start stuff, too. I'm relieved that the struggle is over. I'm grateful that I had a dad who was worth looking up to. A dad who taught me morals, who taught me to be curious, who taught me to try anything. We were out of milk one morning when I was 5 or 6, and I suggested using orange juice in my raisin bran instead. Think about it. Orange juice in raisin bran is obviously a terrible, terrible idea. But my dad let me try it. He let me be curious, he let me explore my curiosity, even if he did know from the start that I would absolutely HATE the combination of orange juice & raisin bran. I don't know why, but that's really something to me. I'm grateful. My dad didn't take care of us very well as he was getting the disease, but that's not his fault. He really tried his best. I'm grateful that I had a father who was smart, curious, creative, and a hard worker. I really hope I can grow to be more like him as I get older. The only thing I want to be different is I want to increase the amount of friends I have over time rather than letting it dwindle. That will be scary, but I'm gonna give it a shot.

One of the biggest & most significant experiences this year has been being BLESSED with the gift of abstainance! I'm a food addict & was graced with what is called in AA, "the gift of desperation". I got a sponsor & started working the steps. One day at a time I am working toward recovery & looking forward to passing it on to another struggling food addict. I am more grateful than words can express!! I have a gratitude journal that I use when I have moments of "getting into self" to remind myself of the MANY blessings!!

Boomerang boy is living with us again after another prison stint. I do not have the capacity for denial that my wife has, nor a bottomless well of selflessness and excess energy necessary to cope with the intrusion into my space, my (our?) peace, my (our) home. I am angry that I am so easily disregarded. Decisions she takes regarding her children are never discussed, and any request for change or accommodation I express is relayed to them (by her) as something they should do for me (so I am the bad guy, the fussy person, the nettlesome one), instead of something that is coming from her as a function of her commitment to our lasting happiness and contentment, or simply a statement that she values decency and considerate behavior from them. I am angry that she criticizes my children (who are both law abiding, productive citizens presenting no drain on our lives or finances) for slights, while being completely unperturbed by the constant rain of disrespect, thoughtlessness, and disregard for law and order coming from her sons. I deeply resent her expectation that I should be "okay" with whatever her children do, or whatever she decides to do in response, without any attempt to find out what I think or feel about any of it. I finally realize that there will always be four people in this marriage, that running after both of her damaged and willfully ignorant children and trying to mitigate the destruction and shame left in their wake will never end. I also realize how little my feelings mean to her. I am adrift, I am alone, and I am a fool.

I traveled for the first time to Latin America for a climbing trip. While I was there I found the conditions dirty, fearful, sometimes squallid and inconvenient but the people in general were warm, honest, hard working, caring, sincere. The reverse culture shock has been deeply depressing. I prefer the sanitation and cleanliness here but relatively speaking am moribund about the officiousness, litigousness, righteousness, cheapness, separateness and judgmentalism of my culture compared to what I saw in Peru. I am finding myself in a place I thought was good become one that repeatedly triggers annoyance, anger, depression and terrible boredom. But I don't know where else I could go or what I could do that would be a better option given my current set of legal limitations and citizenship status.

I have several significant experiences . My first born son left for college, my father-in-law had a massive stroke and I finally committed to getting my drinking under control. A: Drinking. I don't know if I fit the definition of alcoholic. I haven't lost a job or family members over my drinking nor have I had any DUI/DWIs. But, I was drinking every night and I know that I have not been present in my kids lives the way I should have been. My son left for school before I stopped drinking (it has been 61 days since I have stopped) so his memories are going to be of me drinking. It was about 8 years ago that I had an affair. He ended it and my family stayed together but I used alcohol to deal with the pain I caused and the loss I suffered. My drinking got really bad, passing out on the couch every night. But then I got a new job and worked to cut back and did. But I knew that wasn't enough so I have tried to stopp all together. My goal is to go 90 days without drinking and then see if I am able to drink socially. Like I said, my son left and he left while I was still drinking so his memories of me will be with a drink in my hand. Already, I have been able to be so much more involved with my daughter, who is still in high school, because I am not drunk in the evenings. We can go to the YMCA or go shopping or go for a walk. Previously all I did was sit at home and drink and watch TV. I worry that my son will resent me and not want to have a relationship with me because he didn't get to have me in his life like his sister will. He has been gone 34 days and he has spoken to me one time and only answers a few texts each week. The only time he has sent a text was when he needed money. I feel like I have failed him as a parent. My other major even was my father-in-law's stroke. My husbands family is really fucked up. For people who believe in an afterlife the are amazingly unable to deal with end of life issues. They act like a grandparent's or parent's death is the biggest tragedy you can experience and that no one else has had to go through it before. I hate to be blunt but grandparents and parents are supposed to die before you. FIL can't move the left side of his body and although he can talk he can only talk about what he wants to talk about he can't follow a conversation or even ask you a question about your life. Yet the family is acting as though he will recover and go back to work. They think he will be singing in the church choir again. This is all just going to be really hard to live with as they are in such denial over how life is changing. I read a great quote and wrote it down but I don't remember who said it. "Life moves as it should and rarely asks your permission." I like that and I want to remember that. I am grateful that my son is able to make a life for himself away from me but sad that he doesn't need me anymore like he once did. I am sad about my father in laws situation and frustrated that I will have to put up with the family's inability to deal with life changes. I am hopeful that I will be able to control my drinking going forward.

Two big things happened and one is in progress. My divorce was finalized June 25, 2014. I loved my husband and I still love him. We were having some challenges in our relationship. We tried a lot of things - activities together, counseling, workshops. We couldn't seem to stick to anything. I evenutually took a job in Montana and he simply didn't come with me. We just sold our beautiful house in Portland, OR which was our last physical connection. At this point, I'm sad, I do get angry, sometimes resigned. I took a new job as the superinetendent of a school. I am on a huge learning curve. After one and a half months, I am still smiling most of the time. I am in the process of buying a house. This is the scariest and most exciting! I also have one dog and a new puppy and I'm excited about them having their very own backyard. I'm looking forward to feeling settled and I wonder how long that feeling - if it comes - will last as I tend to move around every few years - either with a new job or a new place to live.

I left my job to start my own translation practice. I put a lot of thought and did a lot of research, and had fun with it. The website is cool, the business cards rock, and I love the fact that I am learning entirely new things every day: It feels right, and my work-life balance is so much better and easier now. It is better for all of us. I know there will be much busier times, so I am making the most of these first few weeks when the machine is getting oiled and warmed up. Financially, it is a big, big gamble, but I am really determined to make it work, my way. It's the kind of challenge that motivates me and, surprisingly, I am not too stressed out about the money. The biggest challenge by far is to not let the home to-do list take away from the business to-do list. Each and every really good thing in my life has come from a similar leap of faith: immigrating to Canada, getting married... It was long overdue, and it feels good to be taking some risks again. I hope that one year from now, I have managed to keep us out of the red, have established a few regular customers, and learned a whole lot.

My father died at age 90. I think of him much more often than I expected to. I am incredibly grateful for his generosity in life and in death. He left enough money that I will be able to retire and should not need to depend financially on my son. My father was gracious and kind. He loved his children when we were lovable and when we were not. I aspire to his courage when faced with infirmity and to the strong friendships he forged throughout his lifetime.

A long time friend made my family feel unwelcome to enroll in her child's high school, though our family was in a crisis finding a new school for our child. We chose a different school but not because of her. It was an oddly staged "intervention" and cost her my friendship. I am still angry and resentful, and I will have to manage crossing paths with her. It is almost Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and I am supposed to forgive but don't know how I will. Maybe next year it will not be so raw.

My mother reached her 100th birthday. I am sad that I do not feel joy for her and that spending time with her feels like a chore.

My friend had a baby! I felt ashamed that I felt sorry for myself when she shared the news. Once she had the baby I was so thrilled to meet her & absolutely honored to help care for her. And seeing how difficult it has been, up close and personal, is helping me come to terms with the reality that I'm never going to be a mom. And I am so attached to that kid, much more than to my own nephews who live so far away.

I went to Chicago to help my brother through a health crisis. I had not left my home state in over 12 years and had not flown in over 20, so it was a boundary smashing experience in itself. When I saw my brother after more than a year, I was surprised at the toll the issues he has faced had taken. Reconnecting with a loved one and helping them is one of the most soulfully satisfying experiences. I hope that he recovers quickly, but would do this again without hesitation. It almost made me want to rethink a career in healthcare - or at least consider volunteering. The need is so great and a very little effort can make a huge difference in someone's life.

So my wife left me and I got divorced in the last year. She told me in July that something was wrong. I can't say that our relationship was amazing or anything but it really hit me out of the blue. I tried hard for a number of months to save the marriage. It was heart and soul wrenching. Finally she moved out. The hardest part was telling our kids. I worked with a counselor for a number of months. At Christmas she told me it was over and she wanted a divorce. I wasn't until August that the divorce was finalized. It truly was the hardest thing I have ever gone through. I decided to meet my emotions head on. I allowed myself to feel what I was feeling and worked through all of it. It was a hard road. But now I feel happy in my life. And though I still feel for my kids and there are many unknowns about how our future will look and feel I am hopeful for my future.

I have lost myself. And then struggled to find it. Lost my job, gave up my home state, I threw out all ideas of who I thought I was. Now, unfettered, I hope to move on, learn from it and become a better person. For me. For Kaedence.

My wife asked me to leave my house, and wants to get divorced. I am resentful, generally angry and depressed.

Well, immediately tears come to my eyes. In an effort to live a good life we could afford and not be financially stressed, my husband came up with the idea to sell our home and move into an RV with our 2 dogs and 4 cats. I went along with it, sometimes enthusiastically, sometimes kicking and screaming. After a trial run of 5 days in the RV, we returned home to our house which was not yet sold, and I had a breakdown. I couldn't do this move, and I blamed myself for not speaking up, blamed my husband for comping up with this stupid, stupid plan. My reaction shook my husband, and threaten our marriage, and I went into a deep depression that lasted 6 months. 6 months of not being able to get out of bed, questioning my judgement, commitment to life, to my husband, and to change and challenge. I wish I could say that we went back to live in the RV after realizing that anyone can change their life and embrace a new path. But I did not have the courage to do it. I punished myself because I lacked the flexibility to do something new and demanding. I mourned the loss of something I could not put my finger on. I finally came out of my depression, and my husband and I decided on a new path, one that threw us into initially uncomfortable arenas of meeting lots of new people, even becoming close with people we barely knew, people that we previously might dismiss. We formed new bonds and learned new strategies, and stretched the change muscle in old but familiar ways, ways that were easier 30 years ago. Surprisingly, we are flourishing. I don't think we would have found this new path, were it not for the RV experience. I thank God for helping me through this trying time, and for guiding me, showing me the way, and being my friend throughout. I gave up my tight control over my life, and accepted that with my husband and faith, I could figure it out and be O.K. And I did figure it out, and I am O.K. I am, in fact, feeling amazingly wonderful!

Conflict with my son - I'm grateful it has been resolved.

I helped my mother move out of my childhood home and my grandparents move out of the home in which my grandmother and mother were born. With my grandparents' home, I felt relief that they were moving into a better situation and away from a home that was swallowing them. With my mother, I do think it was the right choice for her and I'm glad to have her living closer, and when I'm awake I don't feel any sense of loss but I have dreams about the house almost every night.

My daughter has been experiencing chronic illness that is still not diagnosed. It leaves me weary and even more compassionate for people caring for loved ones.

I picked an experience that was the most significant because it was me operating as honestly as I could. I was challenged to respond with 3 things I am grateful for per day, for 7 days in a row (I made it through 6 of them). The experience was cathartic, revealing some of my deepest and most intimate thoughts, to close friends and not-so-close friends. Doing anything else would be ingenuine, and while I've been in similar positions before, what I've revealed was not so revealing and made me feel like I wasn't playing the game fairly. In this case, I was.

Fell in love for the first time. Grateful and also very sad.

After attending one semester of college at Missouri S&T, I had to come home for winter break 2013-2014. I had gotten a C in Chemistry which was extremely hard but I worked hard for that C, but my other grades were fine. Maybe in the long run, I didn't do as much as I should have, I could have worked even harder, but I came home unwillingly to go to community college. The expenses of living in a sorority and tuition was a lot for my parents, and at least at the community college I could retake classes 5 times over, for the price of one class at Rolla. I had a bad attitude about coming back, seeing community college as a place for stupid people, but I realized it wasn't like that. There were people just like me in my advanced science classes who had to the same goals and even wanted to go to Rolla once they completed their pre-requisites. I'm currently in my second semester of community college, finally a sophomore, and I realize that my parents were right about coming home. I was able to set better habits and take the time to organize how and when I needed to study while also balancing my hobbies, friends, etc. While I'm still trying to complete my pre-requisites to becoming an engineer, I realize I will appreciate going back to Rolla or a university in which I have worked hard going for because of the sacrifice on my part but also my parents part. I realize that I can be more focused and appreciate where I am and where I am going because of my parents.

I was invited to write a book for someone I admired, and I altered my life, even my family's living situation, to do so. I took it on faith--did not insist on a contract, and within two months, the subject/employer pulled the plug on the entire project: she did not fully understand the time commitment and writing process (my fault for not understanding that an 80 year old woman academic might have very different ideas about what it means to "write a book" than I would as a 50 year old woman academic, and writer). At the same time, this same woman paid for a very expensive training for me, simply because she wanted to know more about those particular facilitation methods. I've also spent a great deal of time pursuing this track--a track reflecting her interests, originally, not mine. I still do not know if _this_ path will yield any fruit. Some days I think it was a gift, some days I think it was a wasteful diversion at worst, a red-herring at best. Without a doubt I resent the loss of time and money and security that this unethical behavior (and my naivete) caused my family. But, more and more I understand that each experience (and they've been hard lessons won since I began praying for wisdom several years ago) sharpens not only my experience as a woman, and not only my professional outlook, but also my faith. One surprising thing I've learned? Yes, don't agree to do work without a contract; Yes, make no assumptions about anyone's value systems or even generic understanding of the world; but, here's the one I'm interested in discovering whether this lesson lessens (!) or evolves or increases in weight over time: Don't let another person's priorities and goals (and ego) get in the way of discerning your own.

I got out of a significant relationship. Even though it brought sadness, I am grateful that it happened and the lessons learned from it. I hope to grow from it.

This past year I had friends who were my roommates. They decided that they did not like me and they did not like living with me. They ended up going behind my back to my Boyfriend and told him they were moving out, recruiting my other roommate to move in with them, before I even knew what was happening. It was very painful because I considered them to be best friends. My lease was not up for four more months so for four months we lived not talking to each other hardly and avoiding eye contact. After we all moved they continued to ignore me but invite my friends and my boyfriend to events. Never once have they apologized or said a word to me since. I've tried to reach out and have received cold shoulders back. I still don't know why this happened, what I could have done to make these people that I trusted and loved turn against me so harshly. I can only sit and draw endless assumptions as to what is wrong with me. This has affected my relationship as they are my boyfriends best friends still. We've almost given up so many times because of the fights we've had over them where I've demanded he talk to them about it or not talk to them at all. Two months ago, I decided to let go. I am realizing that they should not have so much control over me. That I should not let this affect my own self image and I should not brew over people who do not value me the way I deserve. Now my relationship is going wonderful again and I am able to talk about them and hear about them without any pain. This has taken almost a full year to reconcile myself with; it hurts to be rejected by people you trust, but you cannot let hurt stop you from being happy in the future.

In the past 12 months, 6 of my friends have died. 2 of them were especially close over decades and were harder to understand. I know this will start happening more as I get older, but this year was a sad shock, even for the friends who were battling illnesses over a long period of time. I am grateful for the passings of those who left in peace with family or friends. And I was angry at the ones who could have prevented the conditions that led to their early deaths. I am getting over myself and have started coming to terms with the loss. I am happy for having these wonderful, kind, fierce, and funny people in my life. And I can still love them unconditionally.

I remain stable with treatment for multiple myeloma. I am very grateful.

I transitioned from working as a consultant with a company, which involved working out of my apartment, to working at a 9-5 job in an office with a whole new set of responsibilities. Basically, I got a new job. I had to adjust to this new style, which was difficult at first. The new job is also quite different from the old job - it does not have anything to do with West Africa or international development, for example. I have mixed feelings - I am grateful for the new opportunity and relieved that I found something in the city, very near my home, which allows me to get home quickly and easily. I walk to my new job, about a 20-minute trek, which has also led me to appreciate the city in a new way. I was somewhat resentful at the way the former employer seemed so blase about my departure but also was grateful that I did have such a comfortable work routine for as long as it lasted.

2014 was FULL of significant experiences, some planned, others not. Turning 60 in December was definitely a HUGE event. Daughters celebration with me couldn't have been more perfect. My birthday present to ME was a celebration-victory-survival ring and a wonderful cruise in Santa Barbara with my boyfriend. A picture perfect day!! My daughters continue to amaze me with their accomplishments! In February, my second grandchild was born! A little girl, Calista to Kimberly and Justin. Michelle not only received 2 Masters degrees, but married a WONDERFUL guy with a Fantastic family and the happiness and joy continues! Tandy was awarded an aviation scholarship and decided that she really wanted a real LIFE, so took control and continues to work for ExpressJet. In March, there was a huge corporate shake-up at Weight Watchers, so I quit to start my own business of sorts as a magazine publisher with N2 publishing. It's been a lot harder than I thought, but it's progress and gives me a 5-year plan I didn't have a year ago. I have no doubt this will be successful. I'm both excited and terrified and wish I were 40 instead of 60, but the questions isn't why didn't I do this before as much as the answer is that I'm doing this now. I'm also writing a column for an on-line publication "Heard It on the Grapevine" which seems to be very popular and keeps my writing skills going to a certain extent, but I've still not had the time, or energy to finish the book that I've been talking about for about 10 years. All in all, this past year has been chock full of wonder, fantastic, incredible experiences. I'm more than grateful for the family I created, the close friends I have and the opportunity to have financial security somewhere down the road! BEST YEAR EVER!!!!

My neighbour accused me of harrassing her and the police believed her. It really shook me and took me a long time to recover. It was the culmination of 2 years of stress living above her. It was also a relief because it gave me the impetus to move out and 'let go'. I felt I was using a lot of energy to maintain equilibrium. It allowed me to move on with my life.

I lost a lot of weight. We thought it was due to sickness or something physically wrong. Many tests were run. We could not find anything negative. I have gained a little weight back and am feeling much better about things. I still have my job and am making the most of it.

My sweet Isabella was born!!! I was so thankful he arrived sad and healthy! I had so much anxiety leading up to her delivery. I had such a difficult labor and delivery with Conner I was terrified of it repeating. But, praise God it was a fairly easy (as easy as natural childbirth can be) delivery! From the moment I saw her I was in awe. She's ten months old now. She is so beautiful and has such an infectious smile! I love her more and more everyday.It's so sweet to see Izzy and Conner play. They love each other so much! I can't wait to see their relationship get stronger and more meaningful (hopefully). I can't believe how much she has grown and changed over the last ten months. I have never seen a baby love people so much. She loves to play and snuggle! I am so grateful for the precious addition to our family!

I failed my doctoral comprehensive oral exam. While I don't know for sure, I suspect this is why I was passed over for funding this fall. I'm married with a child, and this meant not only a significant loss of income but also our health insurance. It changed everything. We could no longer afford our small two bedroom apartment. My husband, who could only find part time work, took up two jobs to try to make ends meet. We got into debt fast. There were days where I would look up the local food banks, but I lacked the courage or humility to go to them. As long as my daughter got fed, it was enough. A sweet and very spiritual friend encouraged me to envision what my dream is for this life. What was I truly called to do? What would this look like? What would it feel like? I focused on clarifying this vision, enriching it with detail in my mind. It was almost like prayer. I envisioned a decent home, no money troubles, a desk by the window where I could do my research while watching my husband and daughter play in the yard. Our lives were small but content. In this dream, we were happy. It was so very far away from where we were. I kept my heart open. I've lived long enough to know that on the other side of every sorrow, crisis, frustration, loss, etc. there was wisdom to be had. This life that God had given us was a precious gift. Every piece of it. I stayed focused on the vision and tried my best not to wallow in self-pity. It was hard. I cried a lot. We decided to move out of the city to a small agricultural town where the rent was much cheaper. I had taught at the community college there once, and I had loved it, despite the long commute. I called them up to see if they needed and instructor. I doubted that they would remember me. When the heart is open, God provides. There is a mystery to the way this works, but astonishingly, it does. It has been two months since our move. We found a large townhome for less rent than our old tiny apartment. While we were moving, we found a free desk, coffee table, etc. that we could fill our new space with. Our lives were uprooted and changing. Just a few weeks ago, as I was doing my research at my new desk, I looked up and out the window. My husband and daughter were laughing and giggling, chasing each other around the yard. The college here had hired me back. My husband landed his dream job, with full time benefits and nearly double the salary we had hoped for. I have another shot at my oral exam coming up. I realized that what was before me was the vision I had held in my heart, this calling of contentment and happiness that I kept during that dark time. My friend said I called it in. I think perhaps it called me here. Either way, I'm here, and I'm happy. I am so, so grateful for this experience. My heart is overflowing with gratitude. It's like God and his universe has aligned with me in this moment. (He even provided the desk in the dream for free!) I'm more determined now than ever to serve him and his people. I know why I am here. I know my calling. I'm bringing that forth simply by being more and more of who I am. It's beautiful. It's inspiring. And the best part is: it's effortless. I am in deep gratitude for the struggle, for without it I would have never gotten here, and I would have never been able to understand the miracle of faith, prayer, and aligning oneself with God and his universe in its oneness. The blessing on the other side of my tragedy was beyond anything I could have imagined.

This year I started meditating (April 2013). Although I am not always great at it or great about it, I have generally consistently done it every week day for the last year or so (sometime between 10 to 15 minutes). During that time, I focus on letting my mind empty and allow thoughts to pass like clouds on an otherwise sunny day. It is not easy but like exercise, I have been very happy to find that the more consistently I practice it, the better I am at it.

My Dad passed away and I didn't realize how he was one of the few people in the world that I could share my deepest thoughts and ideas with. I miss him

I bought a house. It has been stressful and wonderful. I felt like such a champion, after being wiped out and losing my condo in the divorce, and after only a couple of years of squirreling my money away, here I am in this gorgeous, light, homey place where I can entertain my friends and raise my children. It is also a source of anxiety, though, as I think about my mortgage and how much more dependent I am on a high-paying job. At times, I have wondered if I made a huge mistake. I guess time will tell, and in the meanwhile, I am enjoying living here so very much.

This past year I've grieved over the death of my Father. He died the day after Yom Kippur, 2013, 4 days after his 79th birthday. I've been sad, but mostly grateful for having had him as a Dad. He inspires me to be the person he raised me to be.

I was very depressed for the better part of the past year. At the end of the summer, I attended a day program for mental health issues and it helped immensely. Although being depression felt horrible and I wish it upon nobody, I gained a lot of insight into myself through the experience and I learned lots of useful techniques in the day program. It was a relief to meet others who experienced something similar to me. I'm now back at work and doing well!

Getting married. Being with the woman I love. Standing on the top Natural Bridge and telling the whole wide world that I love this woman more than anything. I am so grateful that I can have a life filled with love, laughter and smiles. Finally. It has also lend me to see, with clear eyes, the terrible relationships I've had and how crappy my kids are. It was beautiful.

Una experiencia importante que tuve este año fue a cuando estuvo mi madre en el hospital por cinco semanas durante el verano. Me siento tan agradecida poder cuidarla, y poder estar allí con ella y para ella. Aprendí que tengo mucha fuerza, y que tengo unos amigos excelentes - lo cual ya sabía, pero que fue bonito verlo de nuevo. Conocí a muchas personas, la mayoría de ellas muy lindas y generosas aunque algunos no. Comprendí de cerca los problemas tan graves que tenemos con el sistema de cuidado médico en este país, y también lo milagroso que puede ser. Vi de cerca también lo que es el miedo a la muerte, no sólo en mi madre sino en mí también. .

I've finally started to confront my anxiety about bridges and heights. Setting small challenges for myself with Marcia is helping a lot. I am trying to pay more attention to my breathing and work towards the goal of being able to drive over a bridge and then eventually drive over a bridge alone. It's still very scary to think about and I hope by the time I read this again in September 2015 that I am able to work with my anxiety instead of being ruled by it.

My wife is pregnant with our first child! I'm all things at once, excited one minute, terrified the next, and yet I can go for hours without even thinking about it. The ups and downs of pregnancy are normal now, I know that she can't eat mushrooms without barfing, and that she'll be gone for a few hours every week (it seems) for more tests. More than anything I can't wait to meet our baby!

Finding out I had emotions. Romantically. All very bizarre. Positive but also dangerous and scary. Plus I guess Israel Tour as well. Significant but not life-changing - very very challenging.

My Divorce: It ws liberating, I've found renewed sense of purpose. I have a profound sense of gratitude.

Turning 60 years old. Scared the hell out of me but at the same time freed me from all those worries that preoccupied me when I was younger about being adult enough to make decisions others might not agree with or might make me look bad. Now I just don't care as much about what THEY think, after all, who knows how much time I have left now that I'm so old!

This past year so much has happened. It's less of a one off experience, but more of an awakening I've had. I have spent so much time not taking care of myself, making excuses for being overweight and not having hair. While I was in Atlanta over Labor Day, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror. I guess I've spent so much time avoiding them that when I did it was shocking. That moment, that total clarifying moment, allowed me to see what the outside of me looks like. And I am grateful, although sad that it got to this point. The only place I can go from here is up, up, up.

I was definitively diagnosed with autism a month ago...at age 45. I'm honestly relieved, because it explains and confirms so much about me and my life. I'm still really processing the information, but I think it gives me a new and healthier way to frame both my successes and my failures, and I think it will help me stop some of the negative self-talk that is so destructive. I've accomplished an awful lot, especially for someone with autism as a life challenge. Not that I'm using it as a crutch, but I think it's productive for me to give myself permission to "cut me some slack" and not be so hard on myself for having a life that's somewhat unconventional and doesn't quite look like the lives of other people I know.

This past summer, I spent most of it at home with my parents and my grandmother to help out. My parents were moving and my mother is a full-time caretaker for her mother. Going home not only helped them, but it helped me reconnect with my roots, my family, and my friends. I feel more connected to by community and my culture. I will always by grateful for the time I got to spend, especially with my grandmother.

Loss of job. It made me stronger. I know have two part time jobs and one fill time job. It was very stressful and I was very depressed but I made it though and that is all the counts. Still have anxiety but working through it.

I had a steep learning curve that occurred at the same time as a difficult challenge, and I came through them both with more or less calm, and certainly without freaking out or harming anyone during the processes :-) I am very grateful, and very happy to have passed through both gates successfully and peacefully.

I received health results that finally motivated me to focus on my physical condition. The experience of getting the results wasn't an all-immersive crisis moment - in fact the results were just barely on this side of healthy - but the feeling of being on the edge was enough to make me thnk twice about how I eat and to get serious about regular exercise.

My youngest daughter was married. It affected me by helping me to realize an expansion of my family. An inclusion of people we had no relation to before hand. The tribe expands! I am very, very grateful. I am happy to see her so happy and seemingly fulfilled by her partnership.

My youngest child graduated high school and started college. This was a very turbulent experience as she was anxious and depressed about it. It stretched our relationship to the brink. It made me look deep into my role as her mother, how best to help without making things worse or creating a dependency. Even after picking the school and moving there, she was still homesick and ambivalent. Recently, she seems to have had an epiphany and is getting out of her shell. I am inspired to continue on this journey and look forward to watching the separation and empowerment help her grow. I am grateful to have this mothering experience, relieved that she is on the right track (fingers crossed), and inspried to watch her bloom.

I was confronted with a past relationship and was able to deal with the related issues in a surprisingly short period of time and then move on. Although surprised at my resolve, I was greatly relieved from shouldering the burden of several years of stress.

I moved from CT to Ann Arbor. Very happy we did!

I just returned from doing my dissertation fieldwork in Puerto Rico; I was there for eight months alone, asking people personal questions about their health. It was incredibly scary at the onset, since I went there alone, and my now-ex-boyfriend broke up with me the day after I got to Puerto Rico. However, I'm incredibly glad I went, and not just for my degree. I had to grow as a person, to rely on myself instead of constantly asking my advisers for help. I was also a bit resentful at the beginning because I was leaving a lot of friends behind, and I've had to make new friends. I'm still not sure how I've changed as a person, although I know that I *have* changed. It's taking me a while to process these changes.

oh boy. I had a problem at work, with a manager- my direct manager, and he was breaking the law. And it was hurting innocents. So I had to gather evidence and then go to tge authorities on him. It was really hard. And I, and many other employees, had to give testimony. We marched into offices, with our drivers licenses, and signed affidavits about what we knew about his actions in front of Loss Prevention and a notary public. Later on in the week, the penny dropped. It was kind of obvious that it was me who blew the whistle. And while they didnt retaliate in the office, a few did on facebook. I ignored them. And a part of me feels absolutely wretched about it. So many have come to me, thanking me for having the courage to do it. But a man lost his job. And his boss also lost his job. And its incredibly difficult for me to quantify how I feel, and the fall out at work has been breath-taking. In some ways, the highlight of many employees' year was the destruction of two people's livlihoods. And I played a role in that destruction, just as they brought it on themselves. And the real kicker is that there are very serious lessons in this. For everyone involved. For me, too. Am I glad they're not going to be able to hurt anyone anymore? Yes. Do I feel awkward and not as sure footed as I once was? Definitely. And it's like working for a whole new company all at once. Our new manager is a straight shooter and very much the kind of manager one would hope for. Aggggggggg. I feel like a vulnerable little kid standing on top of a mountain, the air is thin and I can't believe I accomplished this. Nervousness takes over me once in a while, and I shake sometimes. I'm reminded of how David must have felt after felling Goliath. Did I do that? Did all that really happen?

I have been blessed with an amazing group of girlfriends. So grateful to have such strong women in my life, and to feel a part of something. They inspire me.

My significant experience was not one thing, but a series of things that came from the hiring of a new President and CEO at my work. In the period of time in which we worked together (last Sept - end of Feb; then March - this Sept), I was tested, stressed, filled with anxiety, strangely inspired, reassured of my value in the workplace, etc. While I am proud of myself for making it through that experience, I know that there were costs. I was short, harsh, and unloving to my partner. I lost contact with close friends. I made my personal wants and needs more important than others. I regret what I did and I least I became conscience of it with enough time to make a job change. In a weird way, I feel like a warrior who got a rush from combat. It was fun to be in battle, but battle brought out parts of me that didn't like. I am so relieved to be typing this on my last day at my old job. To leave this damaged place and set up a new life somewhere else.

I got divorced in December - much quicker than anticipated. I was relieved that the divorce is over but resentful that my ex "got away with" his bad behavior. I still want him to be in pain and to regret how he treated me. I still want him to thank me for all I did for him for 15 years. So - this is a mixed blessing. The day to day life is so much better for me and my kids. But the underlying pain is still there. It will take time to get over it - I need to stop trying to punish him and also waiting for the appreciation.

I'd have to say my father dying. I am sad, I am alone, I am an orphan and there's no other feeling like that. I also want to say my hip and I'm VERY resentful

I had a significant health scare. It completely knocked me back down. But I have built up since then and am in better shape than what I have been in a longtime. I also need to add about mom's falling and breaking her leg. It took that relationship to a whole new world, but I continue to learn form her. So many experiences this year.

I have been promoted 3 times in the past year and increased my salary by over 33%. I feel extremely proud, a little bit vindicated (i told you I was ill!) but also a little ashamed that I didn't listen earlier.

I finally got my house in my name alone. I am grateful for this because it means that my ex no longer has any say in what I do or my life. I finally feel like I can make the house my own and that I can live without scrutiny in my own home.

My grandmother died this year. My feelings are mixed... - Sad that she's gone, my last remaining grandparent and the end of a generation - Grateful that I had her in my life as long as I did (I'm 39) - Relieved that her suffering is over - Regretful that I didn't spend as much time with her at the end as I could have, and wasn't able to coax more stories out of her about her life during WWII and afterwards

This year I was asked to be my nephew's godmother. It was really wonderful to get to do that. It is their third child and as my brother's only sibling it was nice to be included in this part of their life.

I took and passed my AOCNP exam. I am relieved and grateful. I am also pursuing my DNP. I am inspired but not certain this is the correct thing to do.

Marriage..... That old saw about "love is lovlier the second time around" The fact that we had been so close so long ago, yet let it slip away. To be given, in the autumn of our years, another chance There are still miracles in this world and happiness to be rediscovered. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKL04xPXARE

My wife asked me for a divorce. This tears me apart because I don't want to lose my daughter. If she would just walk away and I could keep full custody I would have no issue but at best I will only see my daughter half the time. I want to be a major part of my daughter's life. My biggest concern is my wife moving out of town and I will only see my daughter once a month. I am willing to see counseling but my wife has her mine set. Right now I want to spend as much time as possible with my daughter. I know things will get better but right now it sucks.

This past summer we saw the kidnapping of 3 young Israeli boys and their subsequent murder by Hamas.. We also saw another kidnapping and murder of a young Arab boy by Israelis. These were horrible events. And they led up to Operations Protective Edge, when Israeli's finally had had enough rockets fired at them and retaliated. We saw the loss of life on both sides and then watched as anti-semitism raged out of control around the world. All of this had a significant impact on me. I realized that I truly stand with Israel and love her, right or wrong. I was reminded how precious life is and count my blessings. For all of this I am grateful, and inspired.

At 53, for the first time in my life, I have surrendered my ego to loving someone. I am extremely grateful for the love that has come into my life. Because at one point I was prepared to let this man go if he thought his true happiness and destiny lay with another. When I realized that not only did I care for him as a dear friend, but that my caring was really deep love and shared values, was I prepared to let him walk away for his happiness. Thankfully, he stayed and we are now partners in love and life. Bless.

Being with mom when she was officially diagnosed with dementia. I was pleased and surprised at about how open the social worker was. Sad and disappointed that my father didn't internalize what was said. I'm angry he's not taking care of my mother - although I do understand they are both happy the way they are. I'm relieved they moved two days ago. And hopeful that it will work out well.

I attended a HS football 40th reunion after being away that entire time. I was shocked how nonjudgmental and supportive everyone was towards each other. It was a wonderful experience.

I broke up with Taylor. It sucks to even write his name. Then they I have to see him every Seminar in WPB. I'm still sad, though I think about him less often. I sometimes see his face in a crowd. I hate him for wasting my time, my energy, my love. I am relieved that he is no longer a part of my life. I wish that I would find someone but I don't think it will happen in this city. Only minor distractions until I move back to EU.

Gosh, where to I begin? I have been incredibly blessed. I am stressed, anxious and tired all in one so I hope that does not reflect my answer - though it is relevant to my answer! :) I graduated with my MS in Dietetics in July and have since started as a lecturer at UK in August. I'm a professor. It's completely surreal to write this. I am now a month into my job and it's completely overwhelming, challenging, frustrating and exhausting. It has been an incredibly fruitful experience though so for that I am extremely humbled and grateful. I'm relieved in the sense that I have a really good job that could possibly be a career for me. I 'm also inspired to become a better teacher! I need to be better at keeping my relationship with God and my wife as my ultimate number 1 priority.

to Prof. Shiffman, I had to leave NYC after 9/11, 2 yrs. later. I moved to Williamstown Ma, but due to my lung issues, and the cold, moved to the worst place for anyone, Lynchburg, Va. where there is ONE shul? with all converts who are most extremely UNWELCOMING TO ANYONE FROM ANY OTHER PLACE IN THE WORLD. I am totally alone, disABLED and very ill and haven't been to shul in years so, I must connect with Jews tonite and tomorrow nite and I don't know much about the site, my phones are 434. 384.7848 if busy, no calling waiting, try the cell, 434. 544. 1734 but I limit time to 59 seconds, lost two prof. practices. Temple Em-anmual, Dr. Weisstuck was a very wonderful client, miss NYC and very alone, I need to relate to other Jews and I cant leave here, yet as I am awaiting to find out if I have throat cancer, et al. I was Rabbi Gershon Winklers press representative for 5 years prior to 9/11. he's ow in Ca and has a different life so I don't ever hear from him but love him dearly. I am a very good, kind, decent person, TOTALLY ALONE IN GOYUM, I called this 'shul' for Yisker" two years ago to attend, and the gestapo called me telling me 'she would call the police if i showed up! i was in shock. i am not a nut job, just a person who misses home, NYC, I am a 4 th generation new yorker and my grandmother /grandfather were in the Yiddish Theater , Lower East Side before i was born. I live in LIBERTY UNIVERSITY TOWN, where they actually give me books about you-know what[to convert] for my own holidays, no respect, nor regard, I need to make CONNECTIONS TO OTHER REAL JEWS.. PLEASE. I was teaching kabbalah and breatheing exercises, but no one in the South has any interest. I am by prof. ada, eco green arch designer, FIT grad, toxic scientist,[bau biologist], holistic practitioner, registered in nyc, ma, and va. LA SHANA TOVA. SHABBOT SHALOM, RABBI THEO B. FAITH SEMEL, asid, cfsp, cr, ocr HAVING PROBLEMS CONNECTING, CAN ANYONE PHONE ME?

This year I spent 4 days hiking across Israel from the Mediterranean to the Galilee. At the end of the hike, I was awarded our bottle of water that was filled with water from both bodies. This made me confident and made me truly believe that I can do anything I put my mind to. It inspired me for now and for all time.

Last Reflective Weekend attended. I feel relieved of a false sense of spiritually being refreshed when in fact the gathering has declined into a "good ol' boy's weekend". I'm grateful for the renewed spirit of worth I've gained by asserting my philosophical values and beliefs. I'm not resentful of the parting and I wish the "gang" well in their journey; we simply have parted ways and it is for the best for all of us. I'm inspired to search elsewhere to enhance my spiritual nature.

I recently lost a good friend. He was young. In his early 20s. When I read this Q and saw "significant experience," his passing was the first thing that came to mind. MJ was a good kid, a kind kid, and someone who his friends respected and loved. He loved and respected his friends. I considered MJ a brother. His passing left me pissed off. It left me broken and sad, and mad. I'm not mad at him, per se, but mad at the decisions kids decide to make that sometimes lead them down horrible, scary roads... or decisions that lead them to death. I miss MJ so much. I can't imagine what his parents and his sister are going through. If I'm this broken and hurt, how must they feel? Significant experience. There are so many. I began grad school, I was accepted to a fellowship, I made a big move. I'm currently dating someone - that's new... haven't dated someone longer than a first date in a really long time. I wonder where this will be a year from now... But most recent significant experience? MJ. I miss him.

Two things - first going on vacation to New Zealand. It was an amazing vacation with my children and I loved spending great time with them and their so. They were a joy and it was really beautiful. Second, it was getting on Match.com. I was pretty ambivalent and scared. However, it was a nice way to meet people who I have become friends with and they were really outside of my normal range of people

starting my own company has been rewarding beyond imagination. i wasn't sure i could do it, and yet, here i am, nearly five month later, busy and happy working for myself. i'm relieved and very proud of myself.

I fell in love. I have prayed to fall in love for many years and I found out that I'd already been in love for many, many of them. I am now in a relationship with my kindergarten crush. I am thankful for Mike. He has known me for the ups and downs of the last 20 years and has keep loving me all the same. I am blessed.

In late July my wife and I moved from Oakland CA in the East Bay to San Jose. The move was prompted by my wife's new job and promotion. I moved from teaching preschool to teaching kindergarten in an elementary school for gifted youngsters in Silicon Valley. We both experienced a substantial increase in our incomes and standard of living through the move. I am deeply grateful for our success, prosperity and increased physical comfort. At the same time, I miss the friends, family, and comfortable neighborhood we left behind. Both my lifestyle and teaching practice have evolved to adapt to this new situation. I feel inspired to make the most of the move and to expand my social network to include new friends and professional associates in the South Bay.

My boyfriend moved in at the beginning of August. After nearly three years in a long-distance relationship, we are not only living in the same city, but in the same apartment! This is the meaning of a significant experience to me--life changing. There's gratitude, relief, excitement, fear. All of the emotions wrapped up in this one experience. It's a new chapter for both of our lives.

I gave birth to a healthy 9 lb, 15 oz baby girl in December. Obviously, my life has changed in a very big way. I am grateful that my pregnancy was a smooth one, that labor was relatively quick and easy, and that my daughter arrived without any complications. I love every moment I get to spend with her -- even the cranky ones. It is such a joy to watch her develop into her own person. I resent having to work and miss out on the day-to-day progress she's making. My memory isn't what it used to be. I am unsure if this is an actual postpartum issue or if it relates more to constant multitasking I feel I have to do, allowing things to fall through the cracks that didn't before. Maintaining a solid relationship with my husband is challenging -- more challenging than anyone let on when doling out snippets of parenting wisdom.

After dating the same person for three years, we finally became engaged. Affects me in every way possible, it's one of the biggest life choices a person can make. Grateful? Sure, she said yes. Relieved? Hmmm -- not sure, ask me again in 50 years. Kidding, I am definitely relieved as now don't have to worry about her response. Resentful? Don't think so. Inspired? Sure -- I guess.

This year my faith has become more concrete. I feel so grateful and blessed that I haven't had any significant experiences that have been negative. I am currently reading Wayne Dyer's wishes fulfilled book and it brings me great joy to know that I manifest what occurs in my life. Although I have followed the lava traction, and the secret, I feel like this book has brought me to a new level of understanding my higher power and my life's purpose.

Two of my best friends' very young children were each diagnosed with cancer. My first reaction was anger, sadness and disbelief. Over the last year, I have learned what strength and courage look like and have thought about them every day as I strive to be a better person. More in the moment. Grateful for everything I have and can give to the world.

As I write I am on my way to work remembering a bad incident with my supervisor. This is not what I want to record. Rather, I had a big internal turning point a few months ago: there was a lot of tension in my marriage & I found myself either not wanting to talk to my husband or always mad at him. It felt terrible & I even heard myself thinking about leaving and divorce and asking how I could be with this person? And then something shifted. I can't remember the catalyst, but I decided to be the partner I wanted to be- not mad, but loving supportive communicative open. And things began to shift. I won't say it's perfect or that I don't get angry, but it is amazing to me to experience the power of letting to and of intention!

I survived a bicycle accident that left me badly injured. I am both relieved at my recovery and return to cycling and running and upset that the accident occurred because of the negligence of a driver who failed to look before opening a car door on a bike lane I was riding in. The accident could have had far worse consequences. I hope that I inspired others by getting back to exercise quickly.

I finished my PhD dissertation and submitted the revised version for possible publication. I also began grappling with the reality that, as an older and very settled student, the odds of actually getting (or wanting) an academic job are slim. The transition has been hard, but in the coming year I have faith that my path through the future will become clear(er).

My son and granddaughter came to San Diego to see me in a production. They were here for four days and it was magical - sharing the time together and doing different things. I'm so grateful and it makes me want to become close to my sons again and develop a close relationship with my grandchildren even though they don't live close by.

This past year has been a further lesson in humility. Since losing my job in 2009, and some failed attempts at other careers, I am now working (B'H) at more than half of what I earned with my former job. I started the 2014 with $14 and some change, I've moved in with my mother and step-father, had far too many moments between paychecks without a stitch of money. Today, I am without a Jewish family to celebrate the first night of Rosh Ha Shana. I joined the choir, so will not be able to join a friend's family since I will be at the service. I am in the choir of a synagogue that I cannot afford, and have received subsidised tickets for the past two years. Writing about it makes me want to cry. I am grateful for my job - even though I sit next to someone who (if she is not cursing out loud) is curing under her breath. I have a car. A place to lay my head, food to eat and people to love and who love me. But still I want to cry. Still I feel a loneliness that has created a hollow feeling inside of me. It leaves me feeling half alive. I walk through the shadow of the valley of death with half smiles, a lump in my throat and a glimmer of hope.

I started a new position. I'm grateful, nervous, excited, learning, growing.

Learning to lead climb- but more importantly, not being afraid to fall! The relief that comes with knowing that the only thing stading between you and your goals is your own fear allows you to push yourself more than you know. It's translated to outside of climbing also- if I can fall 30' off the face of a rock and be ok, why should I be nervious/anxious about anything else in life? (be it work, academic, social, relationships, etc.)

So I was gonna say being made redundant and therefore deciding to move back to US, was significant -- but actually it's getting married that was absolutely life altering and once in a life time experience that I should focus on!!! Reflecting on my life in a unit of a year, certainly gives me better perspective on life....

I had surgery to have pre-cancerous tumors removed. I'm grateful it was caught before it turned bad, relieved it's over, annoyed at the recovery, and still a bit dazed. It kind of doesn't seem real.

I've been committed to fitness for the past 10 years of my life. I've often set different goals to achieve and have trained hard to meet them: half marathon, sprint triathlon. But most of my fitness goals were cardiovascular related. In early 2014 I decided to really push myself and to train for a strength competition scheduled to take place in June. When my trainer at the Y announced to our XFit class that the strength competition was coming up and that she would be willing to help anyone interested in participating, I thought, "Could that be me?" I spoke with her after class and she said, "Oh my, Jenna, you could totally be a competitor!" With her and my husband's encouragement, I teamed up with another gal from my class to begin a 12 week training program. We were trained by a college intern who had participated in Strong Man Competitions before. He was trustworthy, attentive and a great encouragement! Joy (my partner) and I also kept one another going, especially when weeks 5-8 came. We were both just tired and ready for the competition to be over with, but we pressed on. Finally, June 28 came. I packed my food & drink bags the night before and dropped them of at a local business that agreed to store them so I wouldn't have to fight traffic the next day (parade day before the strength competition). Day of, I was settling myself down, doing my best to eat well to prepare for the afternoon ahead. I walked to the competition location, since it was just a few blocks from my house. As the equipment was being set up, I had the opportunity to talk with the other competitors and get to know them. There were 8 women competing. The events were: Clean & Press- 85 lbs for reps in 1 min 270 lb yolk walk 50 feet for time 130 lb (in each hand) famer's hold for time 150 lb keg carry for distance 100 keg over bar for reps in 1 min We warmed up with the clean & press to get our bodies moving. Then the competition began... Quickly, I realized this wasn't a competition in the sense of the word. This was a bunch of people who were challenging themselves to meet their goals, and they were all cheering one another on! What a great thing! My clean & press time approached, and the time keeper said to me, "Remember: pace yourself." 7 reps! From there the yolk carry was next. On the go, it slipped from my shoulders twice, but I got it up, walked it down 25 feet, turned around and walked back. 30.44 seconds! Farmers Hold: 42.01 seconds! 150 lb keg carry: 61 feet! 100 lb keg over bar: 2 reps...eh... What an exhilarating time! I had my own cheering section made up of my loving husband, parents and a few close/dear friends. They were impressed. I impressed myself! I actually did it! I DID IT! To see me, you wouldn't believe it. I'm a small framed young woman, but it goes to show that once my mind is set on a goal, I train, I work hard, I achieve it.

My boss was accused by about a dozen employees of sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and unprofessional conduct. HR investigated and didn't take any action against him, resulting in a good friend of mine quitting her job. I sure as fuck am not "inspired" by this. It's another reminder that HR isn't there to protect employees, it's there to protect the company from getting sued. Men in high positions still have the power to abuse that position to get away with behavior and practices that are textbook wrong.

For the very first time in my career I was fired. it came unexpected but honestly after a period of unhappiness, internal politics and fights it came as a relief. I never felt resentful or angry but took it pragmatic (i.e. such things happen in business life). After some vacational time-off, which also served as a means of suppression I realized that business life needs to go on. The inspiration, that I increasingly missed in the months before, slowly came back. I'm not yet where I want to be, but I'm now aware that a creative mind needs freedom to think and find inspiration. I now know that my comfort zone was my prison. I broke out, but the newly found freedom must be effectivly used.

Got married. I'm a new woman but also the same Jessica. I'm grateful, indeed that Z and I made it this far together. I'm inspired to get back to a full circle of who I am, dreamed to do, and always wanted to accomplish, especially with my music and art. I also want to be a better Jessica: as a Catholic, a wife, a daughter, a sister, a healthy woman. We want to have a baby. I'm nervous but hopeful. I welcome a new person in my life, in the world. Someone Z can cherish. A grandchild to all our parents. I'm afraid of the pain, but pain has always been in my life so it's nice to think this one comes from love and results in love. I hope he/she is a healthy, good, and holy child. I hope we be good parents.

My grandmother passed away and my mother changed as a result. It affected me more than I expected it to, as she was 101, more than ready to go and died in her sleep. I became more of the adult daughter I have seen my mother become, and my future role in that sense became sharper and painfully clearer. I am grateful to have a closer bond with my cousin Ruth as a result, and grateful for the new freedoms it has afforded my mother. I am sad to see my daughter suffer greater anxiety about the possible loss of her parents, and am still struggling with how to best help her in that way. And I miss my grandma.

I lost my job. It was never a good fit, but it still hurt to get an email laying me off. I more or less knew it was coming, and all in all, it was a relief. I don't know what I'll do next, though.

I surrendered to love. I truly let go and I let God. I danced with the man I love in a parking lot. I made more time for family. I'm learning how to balance academia. I advocate for myself, and in turn advocate for others. I embrace my fear. I shine my love. Sometimes I get it wrong, I make mistakes - and I'm thankful for the wonderful chance to do again. Learn again. I am grateful, relieved, and inspired. Occasionally I'm over tired, grumpy, rude - and resentful. Those moments are a reminder to surrender. They too are a gift.

I was accepted into an Ed.D. program. I was ecstatic because at 58 I found myself at a crossroads looking for signs that might lead me on a new journey of discovery. I am beyond grateful to have landed in a community of learners that is beyond compare. I am inspired by every one of the amazing women in my cohort who embody resilience, tenacity, spunk, creativity, wit, intelligence, and grace under fire. Such a gift! Thank You Universe!

My daughter graduated from college and is moving out. I am thankful that she is moving on but sad at the same time.

This year I went on a long weekend with a large group of people I mostly didn't know. I realized that I can be friends with anyone, that I'm a valuable person to have around, and I've let go of a lot of people in my life who don't believe the same of me. Letting go of people, I expected my life to be smaller--but it's really opened up my life to having more positive energy on a daily basis. I'm so grateful for the trouble of the last year that has brought me to this place.

I went to my 25th reunion at Camp Ramah. It was amazing to realize what an impact it had made on my life. I felt very grateful for my family and the opportunity to live the life I want. I loved connecting with old friends. I felt sad I didn't have as strong of Jewish community around me and, after thinking about it, struggling with it, decided to change synagogues to find more community.

I got married, twice. The personal became political when my wife and I had our photo taken as one of the 300 couples married in Michigan. I'm hopeful our marriage will be legally recognized by our state and our country by next year. I'm grateful to have lived in a county where we were allowed to wed. Marriage is great. Being able to call Mary my wife is incredibly meaningful.

Loss of my spouse. It was shattering and I'm a different person. I'm not sure who I am now and the future feels uncertain. I'm not sure where I want to be or what my path is.

Well, we celebrated our first (not exactly first) wedding anniversary. Its a long story. But yes, we survived and for this I am thankful. This stretch of 12 months was not without some rather intense struggles and ugly repartee mind you. At the ass end of our 50's we have been around the barn a few times ya know. Them old habits die real hard. Mental tapes rewind replay over and over and over and over... in our heads. Its so damned hard to erase the past. Nevertheless, we made it this far. Woohoo! And we are learning and growing (I think). Of course we are. So this is encouraging and I will be looking forward to looking backward next year at this time. How wonderful again to be a teenager in love.

My godparent's daughter, who I grew up with, took her own life. Your question is do you feel grateful? Yes, to be alive and have the family I have. Relieved? Not at all. It was a horrible thing to do and affects many people in a negative way. Resentful? Absolutely. Seeing what it did to everyone else made me realize how selfish suicide is-it does not make anything better, instead it makes every day from that day forward more difficult for those left behind.

Traveled out west to visit relatives I hadn't seen in a few years, taking along my 14 yr old son to see the Rockies & Alberta. Very grateful for the experience and so happy to spend time with my family members. My son also appreciated the trip. Made me think that I need to do this type of thing more often. Especially having seen some younger friends pass away with cancer. Made me think how precious life is

I think it was my process of beginning to wake up, albeit in my 63d year, to grow up, be myself, notwithstanding the other imperatives inthe world, in my head, to be someone or something else. If not now, when? If I am not for myself, then what (not even who) am I? And from the simplification, the excision of competing or overwhelming other agendas, comes the peace, and the freedom to be myself, and its corollary, "if I am only for myself, then what am I?" I am calmer, more determined, more engaged. It feels good.

The birth of my Goddaughter. I feel closer to her than my Nephews because I was chosen by her parents, to be Godmother. I feel grateful for this, and although she still tiny, I feel insipred to be better because I know her, and also to keep growing by how much she is growing.

All three of my children moved out of the house for the first time ever. I am now an empty nester. While I am trying to be thankful for this new time in my life where I can concentrate on myself and my relationship with my boyfriend, it is also hard. I believe that I have always defined myself as a mother and now that they are not physically near me, it changes the dynamic in my life and perhaps it also will change how I define myself in some ways. Being a mom will always be THE most important part of my life, but I also realize it is healthy for me to find other ways to define myself. I guess part of me is a little relieved as when they are around I am busy taking care of their needs, so now I can concentrate a bit more on taking care of my own needs. I just need to begin doing that. I am inspired by their courage to take these chances in life and hope that seeing them live out their dreams will inspire me to figure out what mine are now and do something about it! I am floundering a bit right now with this new life but am determined to embrace it!

My husband celebrated his 65th birthday and I was more affected by it than I had anticipated. Actually, several of our friends reached this milestone also, and the big unspoken question out there is: how much longer will we have to try to make a difference in the world, do all we hope to accomplish, and live a meaningful life. It's been inspiring, and yes, we are grateful to be able to live in health and relative comfort and have the luxury to dream and set goals for the future. We celebrated with our immediate family by spending a long weekend in New York, and it was absolutely wonderful.

Graduating from college is probably the most significant event this year. I cannot believe how fast 4 years went by. When thinking about graduation I thought I would be much more emotional than I actually was. I am scared about what comes next school wise. Another significant event was getting a "real job" in the hospital. It is really eye opening to actually spend time in the emergency room and see how the doctors and PA's work. I cannot see myself working in the emergency room as a career, but I guess I will have to see how that works out. I am grateful for this job and all it is teaching me about medicine and working in healthcare.

My boyfriend proposed! We're planning to get married next year on August. It's really odd, awkward at times, and it's also the most wonderful experience I've had in ages! I mean, we're young and all (I'm 24, he's 26), and we've only just stardet working on regular jobs and all. Hosing is expensive, life in all is expensive. But we've been working and praying and waiting for this for so long it doesn't matter how hard it will be. God's with us, so we will never fear failure. God will lead our way.

My 95 year old mom is slowly slipping farther into dementia. It leaves me feeling angry, sad, and guilty. I am grateful for my husband, for my mom's friends at her assisted living facility, and my mom's doctors and nurses at the Veterans Administration who are on this journey with me. I also find that daily centering prayer is helping me to deal with my mom in as patient, kind way as possible. But after visiting her, I still drive home yelling in frustration. I'm angry that my mom left without saying good-bye. The old woman who is left is not my mom. The woman who was my mom died 6 years ago.

I got married. I feel that every day I spend with my new husband is a blessing.

In late March, the man I honestly thought I was going to marry broke my heart in pieces. It was completely unexpected and hit me like a ton of bricks. I could write paragraphs and paragraphs about how the experience changed me, but I can honestly say that I'm a better person for it... and that leaving me was the best favor he ever did for me. Also, I have amazing, supportive people in my life who I wouldn't trade for the world.

I believe without a doubt, or possibly because it is so recent, it is my selling my townhome in West L.A. and buying a 3 br/2 bath home in Cathedral City, next to Palm Springs. So far it has been just beautiful out here. The people and the atmosphere are just so much better. When I'm driving I see mountains in every direction. The roads are practically empty at night and no traffic like L.A. I hear this can and will change, but I'm sure I can handle it. I've been getting clients for my business. I not only sold and purchased this house, but I made a nice profit. So, I no longer have a mortgage or HOA (Home Owners Assn.) fees, but I made money on the deal It really seems and maybe is too good to be true. As someone I spoke with from Verizon said to me, 'you're getting out of the rat race.' 29 years in N.Y. and 25 in L.A. it has been all rat race. I have survived and still looking to thrive. So I guess I can say L'Shana Tova as I do move more in the direction of happiness.

I spoke at two major technical writing conferences - one in October and one in May. Both were great learning experiences and were good moves for my career. I like speaking in front of other people and being recognized for my work. But on a social level, large crowds are not always my scene. So I struggle between the "performance" and getting to know individuals during the rest of the conference. I am grateful for the experiences and hope to do more in the future. I think it's opened up new opportunities to me in my career. But I was also relieved when they were done.

I finally made it to under 300 pounds in my weight loss journey in the spring of 2014.

My elderly parents were hospitalized last winter and my mother emerged in much debilitated state - mentally and physically feeble. She was in hospice but has recovered and my father is her caregiver at home. My 3 siblings and I have learned even more about the cohesive loving collaborative support our family is capable of. I am grateful for the awareness, for the family, for the opportunity to experience this sacred time in the long life of a multigenerational family.

First, the illness of my husband, but since I came back from my Holidays in Oman mid-September, he's getting BETTER!!! Halleluiah!!! The second thing, is that I have to re-locate again, and I'm waiting for the next colleague's phone call to tell me it's ok and he will leave on september 30. so that I can enter the new practice on Oct 1st. Apart from that, the numerous lumbagos, first all of May due to a herniates disc L2-L3, terrible, then before my holidays on the left side, which subsided; and came back strongly in Oman as I had been pulling a chair on the lawn. Terrible pain when coming back, I'm not made for these long trips any more....

We celebrated by husband's 80th birthday- my beloved husband who struggles with heart disease. We shared the celebration with family and friends. I am so grateful to G-d for blessing me with my husband's love.

I am still processing having quit my job. It only just happened earlier this month. I have been dreaming of leaving basically since I started - 3.5 years ago. It's not that the job was terrible; I'm glad it exists. It's not that all of my coworkers were terrible; some were better than others, though. It was dealing with the needs of a very broken community day in and day out, never having the power or authority to do anything but give information, never knowing if things ever worked out or got better, being lied to and manipulated by those that I was serving, and the overwhelming sense of hopelessness that encroached on my psyche. I started a personal count-down to quitting six months beforehand (100 work days). There were many days that I went home and wondered if I'd make it to the end of that week. I imagined I would feel elated, relieved, lighter, free, but I don't. I'm glad that I don't have to face those things every day, but I don't have the euphoric liberty that I imagined. Since moving to this city and starting this job, I have looked for work in my profession (we moved for my spouse's career). I have diligently looked, applied, and gone on countless interviews. I left the last job without another one lined up. We have some financial reserves, but I can't be without employment for long. I'm certain that this is one of the reasons why I'm not so happy to finally be gone.

I began going back to college for a second degree. It made me grateful for a chance at a second career, but it also brought up a lot of old feelings of resentment and self doubt. I am too hard on myself and do not give myself enough credit for my accomplishments. And I am constantly comparing my own timeline to that of others. I have been through so much, so many set backs. Some not my fault, and some of me holding myself back out of fear. At the end of the day I am my own worst critic when I need to be my own cheerleader.

This year I made a move from New York City to Cincinnati. I essentially took a life I was building and beginning to thrive in and took it apart for a new job opportunity. Sometimes I still question why I did it. While it not only affected me in every aspect of my life, this taught me that I am only looking forward and never back. I made a decision to accept a job and move, and I have to live with that decision to the fullest. Overall I am grateful for taking this leap, as it's taught me a ton about making the best of a situation. Sometimes I'm resentful, but I try to turn that energy into positive thoughts. I think this move was a great choice, but I'm still looking forward to my next steps!

I was reunited with my grandson, who had been placed for adoption 12 years ago. He lived with me for the first 3 months of his life, and his parents (my son and his then wife) chose to place him for adoption. They had considered it before his birth due to their circumstances, changed their minds at his birth, and then changed again when things were very bad for them. It was excruciatingly painful at the time, but the right decision. Being reunited with him has been a tremendous blessing to us both, and will result in him being reunited with his birth father (my son) as well, when the time is right. I am deeply grateful and humbled by the miracle of it all.

I had neck surgery in April after enduring three months of pain, and losing a lot of work on a crucial project. I have emerged more committed than ever to taking good care of myself. Still, I need to step up and work harder, be ambitious, set goals, and achieve them.

I decided to get back into the full time work force and went back to my roots in the lighting business, a place I said I would never go again. It has had it's up's and down's and I am considering an adventure to see where it leads me. Will I still be here next year doing the same thing? I don't know but that is the challenge in life to see where it takes you day by day. I am grateful for this position. I will see where it leads, or doesn't next year at this time. Until then. Shalom my new life. let's see where you lead me.

I spent 7 weeks in Hong Kong over the summer. Am I grateful, relieved, resentful, inspired? Yes. I'm grateful to have the opportunity to explore, but I'm relieved that I'm now closer to the people I love. In some sense, I am resentful that I spent that much time away from Ines and from building a life I love. It was amazing to explore a new world, but it's becoming more and more difficult to live without my passions, which are elusive. The only thing I consistently love is Ines. In the end, I'm ultimately inspired by new places, new experiences and the people I love. Hong Kong was significant in that I realised I didn't 'belong' and had no desire to fit in long term. This was an interesting feeling; I had also wanted to integrate and mesh with the rest of the world. Amazing experience, happy it only lasted 7 weeks.

My daughter's Bat Mitzvah. It was a beautiful experience that brought so many family and friends together. There has not been such a celebration since we got married. So much love, heartfulness and appreciation for our daughter's transformation. Looking forward to the next simcha!

My dad was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's, which was not a total shock, but the news was still devastating at first. For a few weeks, it was too sad to talk about or even think about much, but that has slowly started to change. Now I'm trying to be more available to him and spend more time with him and the rest of my family - and I'm learning important lessons about unconditional love, service, and above all, PATIENCE. Which is a lesson I really needed. So while I'm not exactly grateful for the disease, I'm grateful for the opportunity to find the beauty and the human connection within it.

I gave up my career this year. Or more accurately, my career collapsed. The film industry in Los Angeles has exported itself, largely to Toronto or Vancouver. I would have been happy to relocate, but I couldn't get a job that provided enough stability to relocate my family to a foreign country. So my choice was to abandon my family, work in Canada but try to support my American home with a variable Canadian income, while working essentially temp jobs, or to leave the business. So I'm in Texas, answering phones on the midnight shift, taking a huge hit in hourly income and selling my home in California. I am grateful for a reliable job. I'm relieved that I have reliable income. I'm resentful that of an industry in collapse that no longer values my skills enough to protect me. And I'm lonely. In order to provide my family with stability, I have to leave them again, living in Texas while they pack and sell the house. I hate the choices I've been driven to.

I met Aaron. I am grateful to meet a kindred spirit, relieved to know he's out there, resentful it didn't happen sooner and that he sees it as bad timing. I am inspired to plan for our life together.

In March of 2014 my mother was declared cancer free. It was so nice to have a positive ending to this two year battle.

I feel like there has been a lot of significant experiences in the last year, which is an amazing thing. The single most significant experience for me was getting engaged. I had been married before, for 10 years, and my ex and I have 2 amazing kids. After we divorced I said that I would probably never get married again, but I was wrong. This time around I feel so much more love and I feel much more loved than I ever have before. I feel supported and supporting, I feel happy and content. I am very, very grateful for what I have and I try to remind myself of that every day.

A falling out with a close friend over hypocrisy and cowardice. He is in a new relationship with a emotionally volatile woman and he is afraid of confrontation. She insulted a dear friend of ours and he refuse to address it. I was disappointed because he chose a new relationship with a female over standing fast for a friend. I am not resentful. I learned that I can not make concessions for those who are are not strong and self-willed. I am enlightened.

I had an MRI guided needle biopsy of my breast - it was a fine line only detectable by an MRI machine, and the actual biopsy came after lots of testing. It was scary, and the healing process was more intense than I'd expected. I was resentful that I didn't understand the implications of the results of my initial MRI, or that they didn't tell me I couldn't lift for 72 hours - the 72 hours I was the primary caregiver for my daughter, age 20 months, my beloved, who knew right away something was off. I still don't feel relief, even though I got the best possible result, because it came with the message that I should have a prophylactic mastectomy in two years. I still feel confused about who I can tell, and who I need to keep this private from (like potential employers who are also friends). On the other hand, I realized that my life could have been disrupted by treatment for breast cancer, and all of a sudden, all the life planning (and fretting) -when to have more kids, type of career, etc., you know, the big things you're supposed to think hard about? Seemed so unplannable. I felt inspired to seize the moment. I hope I get pregnant soon, and I'll deal with the ramifications another time. I am pursuing a career path I love, but I realize that with all of life's twists and turns, the path may not be what I'd imagined. I feel more open and receptive to taking bigger risks now, because I understand that I live with a huge risk every day of my life.

I miscarried my first pregnancy with my partner at only 6 weeks. I'm angry that it happened. We wanted the pregnancy so badly. I know logically, statistically it's common, it was a good thing, if it had implanted it would have been dangerous for me. Illogically, emotionally, I am still so sad. I am hopeful that when we try again we will have luck. We so badly want to become parents.

I got engaged. I am grateful for sure, but also amused with my own eager anticipation and how little it actually changes my day-to-day life with my partner. Except wedding planning - that part can die in a fire. So stressful!

On vacation in Hawaii, my boyfriend and I were having sex, and he suddlently asked me if I'd rather have a boy or a girl, his way to tell me that he was now happy/ready to jump in the 'lets make a baby' wagon. I was both elated and scared shitless. That was in the Spring, and I am pregnant now, still feeling a bit of both, depending on the days. Like all parents to be, I'm afraid I won't be up to the task at times, but my boyfriend (who is already a father) is so chill about the whole thing, it's very reassuring. He did a pretty good job with his ther kids, so I guess we'll be fine. :)

My dad was hospitalized for what seems to be the millionth time. This time his blood thinners were causing a hemorrhage in his stomach. It brought out all my sisters to go visit him in the hospital. The same few who haven't seen him in years because they are too busy. I'm grateful he was ok and that he got to see a lot of his daughters, but it also made me angry because he obviously enjoys their company and hearing from them. There is a lot of "story" behind their actions but we're all adults and we all can get over it.

I went to Woodland Hills Healing Center and a wonderful doctor finally found the cause of my fatigue - Adrenal Fatigue and food allergies. I found out in January and with the help of supplements and diet changes I feel better than I have in years. I am so grateful for the Dr. DiMartino. I cried after he told me the cause. It felt so good to know that there was a reason. My normal doctor had just given up since my symptoms weren't easy to diagnose. It feels so good to be on the path to health, but I am still struggling with figuring out what I can eat and what I need to avoid.

I have begun the process of opening up to my difficult feelings after a major traumatic event. It has been painful, liberating, creative, frustrating, depressing and hopeful.

This year I am grateful for having: -Celebrated the 1 year anniversary of my sobriety. -New job after my first bout of unemployment -Released my long-held-onto-ex/one that got away -Dated someone who helped me become aware of my own issues around relationships -Went to my first music festival -TWO road trips -Headed up my own camping trip as an adult - I can survive in the woods! -I started writing the novel that I always wanted to write -I've taken TWO writing workshops -I've met a man who gives me hope for the future of my relationship issues -I've started working on examining philosophies entrenched since childhood and reparenting myself -Better relationship with my parents/became more vulnerable with them -Learning that I can survive, that no one will eat me

I recently re-connected with a colleague who I truly admired but had not seen for 20 years. Upon our re-introduction, this person praised and complemented me on a book I had written and asked for a signed copy. After 7 years in retirement, It felt extremely good to be "validated" by this person. It inspired me to re-evaluate my current involvement in research and wrting again.

This last year I completed my first year in grad school. The first semester I was not sure I made the correct decision, leaving everything behind and going to a foreign place. But starting my second year I am grateful that I took this step- I am learning a lot of new skills and mostly learning the value of a true home, community and friends- the one I have in Israel

my 90-year-old mother fell, was hospitalized, then went through 6 weeks of rehab at a nursing home. she was very lucky, injury-wise; it could have been far worse. my siblings and i rallied with visits and running her household from a 20-mile distance in three different directions. it was exhausting, but this minor catastrophe forced us to learn how to set up and monitor her accounts and generally handle things for the next time, when she might be permanently incapacitated. she insists on living alone in her own home, so we have embarked on a series of visiting caregivers who will help her with some routine tasks and will become more involved as her health and abilities decline.

My 22 year old cat died. She had been the only other constant in my life and my life with my wife of 20 years since we got her as a stray in NYC in the 90's. She had a great life, loved and was loved. I'm not sure if I can ever have another cat as she was so perfect no other pet will ever quite live up to her. I'm grateful that she had such a long life and I was able to share it with her and she with me.

Nine months ago, my husband and I did something we said we would never, ever do again: we got a dog! After twelve years in our pet-free home, we caved in to pleas (and pictures) from our local Animal Samaritans, and brought Penny home with us. Penny is part Chihuahua, part dachsund and probably some other parts as well. The vet call her a Chihuahua mix, but we call her our little Chi-Weenie. When we put our last dog, Patches, down in 2002, we said no more. We wanted to be free to travel anywhere, anytime without worrying about a pet. Now seemed like a good time and little Penny was in need of a forever home. What a difference in our lives. She is my little shadow and my husband's armchair companion. She wakes him at 5:30 a.m. everyday with kisses and cuddles and dragging herself back and forth on his tummy. The three of us are the pack, and she feels safe with us. There are so many stories to tell about our last nine months with sweet Penny, that she has her own blog, called Chi-Weenie Tales, to share with all our friends and family members. We are grateful every day for this addition to our lives.

I left a job for the first time. It was scary to take responsibility for leaving the only place that I had known what it was like to work in, a place where I had grown to know everyone and feel comfortable. But at the same time it was very empowering to recognize that the decision was entirely in my hands. I am so grateful to have evaluated the timing and method of the way that I left, and so grateful to have left having secured a job elsewhere entirely of my own accord. It definitely inspired me to (a) make moves for myself and (b) trust in the universe that when you plan and prepare adequately, but leave some elements up to chance, the right opportunity is just around the corner.

We moved to western London. I am resentful. I left behind a network of friends, a city I loved, top notch health care for my son with Special Needs, the convenience of living in the middle of a city, work I enjoyed. I am embarrassed that I am still holding onto this resentment, months later. I am frustrated that my husband does not seem to understand how much I gave up. I am embarrassed that I am not embracing the move to a foreign country despite the inconveniences.

Probably the most significant experience in 2014 has been my major neck surgery in March, 2014. I am certainly not grateful or relieved, although the surgery did stop my hands my from going numb every day. Resentful? Yes, probably...since even though one problem was solved, others have taken their place, and I know spend every single day in pain. This has affected my general health, sleep, weight, ability to exercise and recreate, and in general, affected my overall happiness in a very negative way. I truly wish I had never decided to proceed with the operation, as the previous issues were easier to deal with than the current ones.

Almost a month ago I was hit by a car who went through a yellow light. I can't help but be resentful with all that has happened to me in my life. I wish I knew if there was a purpose to all of this, because I am afraid all of these things are going to make me very bitter. On a positive note, I went to a weekend retreat to Lily Dale this summer and it was inspiring. Before the accident, it made me believe that my purpose in life would be to be a medium. Now I don't know which way to turn.

I retired from my job after 36 yrs. I've been keeping busy but have had some fear about the future, and moving forward. I am very grateful that was able to retire at 60, last year I started building an addition on my house and now I am almost finished so I am not sure what to do with myself. I try to help others as mush as I can, and would like to volunteer, maybe at a nursing home. I am also in recovery and plan on doing more service work. I recently found out that my father was Jewish, and would like to pursue that more , learn about Judaism.

Last October, I sat down in my parent's upstairs bedroom and took pen to paper to really decide what I wanted to do with my life. Now, I'm in my first semester at Library School. I'm grateful for the peace and quiet of my parent's home, and the ability to stop and really think hard about myself and my goals. New York is a loud, busy place, and there's a lot of pressure to just go go go all the time, even if you don't know where you're going. So I'm really happy that I had the time and the place to stop what I was doing and focus, to listen to myself, and to look a the pieces of the puzzle from a step back from a moment. And I feel really good about the conclusions I came to in those quiet 20 minutes. The more I dig into this field, the more excited I am to be a part of it.

My wife and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. It was, of course, joyous. We had a wonderful party and a wonderful trip to France. The party and the trip did of course add a bit of stress to the occasion and I can't say I wasn't a bit relieved - that the party and the trip went so well - but also relieved to have made it this far in our marriage. I love my life and I love our life together. I've tried to be a good husband but I am not without my faults and I'm glad she's stayed with me for all of these years. I just hope she finds it in her heart to stay with me for 25 more.

I began meditating to overcome chronic anxiety. I'm also seeing a counselor. After about 3 months meditating 1 hour or so a day on a scripture verse or phrase, I am making progress in overcoming anxiety: calmer, less or no tension in my head, no pounding heart rate, sleeping better. I am grateful but not as much as I feel I should be. But it's a work in progress.

A friend we haven't heard from in a while called, asking for help to buy a car. That's not like her. She wouldn't ask if there was any alternative, but her car was dying, and between health problems, screwed up children, and taking care of grandchildren, she was in a bad situation. So we bought her one. What else is money for if not make problems like that go away, erase one cause of stress and worry? Grateful? You bet. I'm grateful that she thought so much of us that she would ask. And I'm grateful that she gave us he opportunity to pass along some of the luck that got us where we are now.

My son graduated High School, was accepted to university and we dropped him off Aug 2014. His dad had died 12 years earlier, and I remarried 6 years ago. To have his step dad and, his sister and I there for all of this was incredible. Grateful and Relieved doesn't even begin to explain the feelings. We have been through so much, so much pain and yet we all were there together for each other. Beautiful.

I took a position in a professional services firm. I took the position because my husband was still out of work. It was not clear when he would find a job and my independent coaching practice wouldn't sustain us. There was a lot that excited me about this shift. Good people, colleagues, travel to CA..but there was also a lot I had to give up--my coaching website, my 1:1 coaching practice, my flexibility to make choices about when I would work and what work I would take on. On the whole, I think this transition gave me some anchor during the craziness of moving to a new town. But I can't help but miss my coaching.

My dear mom passed away on July 23. She had been extremely unhappy for four years and her dementia had escalated dreadfully in the last six months. She was no longer the same person. It was misery for her and everyone involved. When she finally passed, it was a relief to some extent, but thinking about her difficult last years, I am constantly brought to tears. We spent so much time together and did so many things. I miss that mom terribly.

Joan's dad died this last year. On the one hand, it was the lifting of an incredible burden from Joan, as she felt the entire weight of his care (which wasn't good). She was constantly on edge, waiting for another bit of bad news about him. He ultimately died when the assisted care facility moved his walker to the other side of his room, and he tried to stand up to get it. He fell and hit his head on a table, and ultimately died because of the fall. On the other hand, his death resulted in a financial windfall to our family. We recently received a check for $180,000 from the trust that existed and was liquidated upon death. We have more money to come in as her brother works to understand how to administer and distribute the estate. As a result of his death, Joan is a different person, still worried about a host of things, but clearly times are different. This makes me feel grateful that he died, which is an odd feeling, but I just didn't like the way she felt she needed to act while he was in the last stages of his life. And of course, I am grateful for the money that allows us to think about money in a very different way.

I started a new chapter in life. I started to listen carefuly. I started to build my name and grow my spirit. I became much stronger and much happier. I've created a new life. I've unleashed the love inside.

It's been a major year for me as Tirza and I got a house, we'll be married in October and my brothers have two new kids. We're very stressed, but blessed. I'm one amazingly lucky guy.

I've switched positions at work, increasing my responsibilities dramatically, but haven't had a raise in 2 years because during that time my direct report has changed 3 times and no one has taken the time to understand what my job is. I basically sit in my office all day and do next to nothing. I still think I deserve that raise from 2 years ago, however.

This past year I lost my husband. I am not grateful or relieved. I am truly so sad and at times feel lost without him. It has been a year of learning to live alone and adjust to a new way of life . I am inspired by arnies bravery during his illness and positive outlook and try and remember it when I become overwhelmed

During the past year, I moved in with my SO. We've been together about two years now and there was a lot of trepidation that went into making the decision to live together. In the end, we were very excited both for our new home and for the fact that we would be together every evening. That isn't to say it has all been easy. We've gotten into very tense fights since moving in together that have almost certainly been tied to the fact that we do not have our own spaces to disappear to. But the bigger issue has been my resistance towards my defaults. I become insular and at times selfish and assume too much of what she is doing is about me. This tendency, along with the snipiness and remunerations that usually follow, has been the reason for the dissolution of my last two live in relationships. I'm not complaining. I'm very glad that those relationships ended because they led to the woman I now live with and love, but I'm typically a very confident and self-satisfied (in a positive way) person but having to fight back default urges and tendencies has made it difficult at times. At times since we've moved in together, I've felt pretty bad about myself but I recognize these tendencies as worth changing. I'm both interested and anxious to see how these things play out over the next year.

I moved to London! It's been very recent, but so far very positive. I'm grateful for the opportunity to live abroad again, relieved to finally be here after months of anticipation, and inspired to see what work and travel I do in the time before I read this answer again.

I've tried to bring my family closer together on my mothers side. This has been something that before never really concerned me because everyone on that side did not speak. (An old grudge caused by grandparents long deceased that has ripped a seam in a once very close family) Then my cousin Vincent was diagnosed with a progressive cancer and his outlook is not very promising. Vincent was in my wedding and is the youngest of all the cousins. I decided it was past time to, if for no other reason than Vincent's illness to reconcile the differences between my mother and her brother and sister(her brother is supposedly my godfather(resentful) but you would never know it. I invited everyone to our house to celebrate my daughters college graduation and as I suspected only one cousin and my aunt (godfathers wife) came. We enjoyed our company and a few weeks later went to a graduation for Vincent's son and his sister Marianne's daughter. My uncle is still extremely negative but it was bittersweet to walk up to him to ask how he was since he could not do the same to me. I felt empowered to show him I could be a better person by trying to forget what the past brought and concentrate on the future. In some ways I was relieved that I was able to put my resentment over this whole affair aside and inspired that there is a chance that we may actually be able to communicate among the cousins since the issue has nothing to do with us yet has taken away many years of sharing in family and life events. If my Aunt and Uncle choose to live their remaining days in defiance then that is their choice. For Vincent I refuse to be a part of what is so old and so wrong that no one remembers the origins of the issue.

My mother fell and it meant she could no longer live alone. My siblings and I have been trying to get her to make a change for a number of years and it took a disaster to make it happen. It makes me sad that it had to come to this as it affects her quality of life. It inspires me to not let this happen to me. It also makes me relieved that I won't have to worry about her so much. At the same time I am resentful that she is angry and directing it to me and my siblings.

The CO flood. It humbled me to the suffering caused by natural disasters. I am grateful for how our family worked to save our basement, and so grateful we came through it.

My family moved half way across the country- one of my children stayed behind to finish college and one came with us. Although I miss my son our new neighborhood is amazing and we love it.

Travelled to London, Normandy, Paris in April 2014. Two days touring the D-Day beaches in Normandy were very moving. Hard to believe that anyone made it across those beaches alive with the fields of fire laid down by the Germans. Felt very humbled and inspired by the courage of those men who sacrificed themselves and those who kept moving across the beaches and inland. Most moving sites were Pointe du Hoc where the Rangers held out for 2 days before being relieved and lost almost half their men, visit to church at Angoville au Plain where 2 American medics set up a hospital to treat wounded Americans, Germans and a young French boy and blood stains still mark the church pews and floor, and the courtyard at Abbe d'Ardennes where captured Canadians were brutally murdered by their German captors.

Last year I began to spiral out of control purposefully. I simply did not care. Now, After a year, I am recovering for my recklessness. Even though this is a stressful time in my life, I am grateful. I learned that I am not invisible as I believed.

A group of guys whom I have known for over 45 years get together for one weekend a year. We tend to get nostalgic, drunk and do very stupid things. Several of us are over 60 and some have grandchildren; we put ourselves and others at risk acting like we did when we were 13 and didn't know better. After last year, I talked to a couple of the guys about turning down the hijinks a bit. This year they seemed to ramp it up to 11 and for the first time I did not enjoy any aspect of the weekend and its thoughtless drunken antics. I am considering not going in the future. The thought makes me sad in some ways because I have known these people for most of my life. It seems that they don't want to grow up; they want use this weekend to shatter their day-to-day existence. At one point it was fun to get away now it seems kind of desperate and sad.

I significant experience that happened to me this year, was I moved out into an apartment for Jasmyne and I. I was able to give her what I felt as though she deserves and that was her own room. I am beyond relieved and grateful for the fact that this was a goal of mine for so long, and I was actually able to achieve it.

In the last year, I quit the college I was working for. That was scary and it was hard. I think I hurt my family, financially, but I also am so glad that I did it. I don't go to work every day, worrying about the ethical decisions I'm going to be faced with. I don't feel like my college is harming a large percentage of my students. I think I will always miss those students. I like these guys okay, but they won't ever be as fun as the population I used to work with. But I have resources here that I didn't have. My students have resources that students at my last college couldn't access. I'm not on the tenure track here, and I might have moved my family across the country for a job that will evaporate. But I'm happy not to be at my old school. I think I made the right decision.

I married my husband! Our relationship has not changed significantly - the marriage was very much a public celebration of a bond that had already formed - but the process was certainly significant in that it consumed my time and my resources beyond what was really healthy. I enjoyed the day but the stress that went into it - stress that was not the product not of myself or my family but of societal obligations to put on a dog and pony show - is something I regret. I am inspired to make my friends' experiences less stressful.

I was away from my family and I got on a divorce. I passed by some differents experiences after that and actually I am a solitary man. i am not greteful neither recentful but it is a diferent experience. I miss my daugther

I bought my first home. It seemed like both a big deal and yet, at 35, the expected thing. I knew, but didn't really understand, the difference between renting a place and owning a home. It's a blessing and a curse. I'm also very lucky. A friend called it my forever home, and fingers crossed, I believe she's right. I've found a place I want to be for a very long time, and so far, my life seems to support that desire. Things can change, but at this moment in time, I'm incredibly grateful to live somewhere that gives me a secret thrill of pleasure to call home.

Its hard to pinpoint one event exactly. I graduated with two masters degrees in two and half years and had a wonderful job waiting for me upon graduation. While I relieved and grateful for this opportunity, I felt guilty at times looking at my graduate school friends who were still struggling to find jobs. Its not that common in my profession to have a job lined up before graduation and I am grateful everyday to have a supportive, understanding boss as well as a laid-back work environment. But along with this job has come a lot of reflection about my future and the world around me. Working under a grant, I know I have a position until August 2018. While I have more security than most others do, its scary to think that past that date, there is no guarantee what I will be doing. The unknown can be really scary thing.

I finished my dissertation and graduated from my doctoral program. I feel like a weight has been lifted from me and am incredibly relieved to be done. It wasn't easy to get to graduate school and it was a struggle to manage the workload while I was there, so I am so grateful to be done. On the other hand, for the first time in years, I don't have a plan. People ask me what I do and I don't exactly know how to answer. It's a little overwhelming and scary.

Both my parents died this year. My mother passed first and while I grieved, my emotions were mixed as she was an abusive parent. I grieved the kind of mother she could have been to me. My father was my hero and I am bereft over his recent death. Yet, I find myself thinking of the loss of them together as a whole and creeping towards the place of gratitude for shaping me into the person I am.

I realised that my depression had returned and I began taking medication again. I felt a bit sad, a bit of a failure, but above all I felt relief, and hope that I could begin to feel normal again.

Halfway through this year, I realized my business partner has a serious debilitating mental illness. Instead of focusing on the days and days of frustration and anger that I have felt - and anger that was beginning to dominate my every working moment - I was now free to take a deep breathe and re-examine our destructive relationship. No more was I going to engage in endless rounds of fighting and scuffle. I realized that I should be a source of help rather that a source of anger and frustration for him - and in doing so freed me from my own anger and frustration. It was a moment where I literally looked at the world with a fresh pair of eyes and I have felt nothing but relief.

My then-88 year old mother broke her ankle in September after several minor falls. This was the tipping point in her making the decision to move to assisted living (with encouragement by me). I am grateful that she came to the decision "on her own" and relieved that she now gets the care that she needs, particularly with respect to meals, so she no longer relies on the convenience of a box of crackers. She also receives help with cleaning and rides, and can enjoy the company of others at meals. I am a bit resentful that she still does not care for herself as well as she could, however I am coming to understand that at 89, she can do what she likes. I am also inspired that she has decided to make this move an inspiration to others - being friendly and talkative with those with memory impairments, while others sometimes shy away.

Took my son (along with Marisa) to Israel. Stressful, but wonderful. He really loved the experience and learned so much! E also went to camp for the first time and loved it! So grateful that he had these positive Jewish experiences and that, as a parent, I could be a part of them!

I attended the International Gay Games in Cleveland, Ohio. The experience brought me out of my shell. Taught me areas that I can be competitive in if I put in the proper effort. I met athletes from all around the world and it was significantly less judgmental than I had anticipated. Not being a top athlete, I was still welcome and even encouraged to participate. It gave me a renewed confidence in my ability for growth. The experience left me both grateful and inspired.

This summer I experienced a torrent of events, one good, the rest challenging, including the death of my dog, a torn ACL and the associated reconstructive surgery, the death of my father, contrasted with meeting a wonderful man. All of the events helped me to become a more grateful person as well as more humble and open. It generally hasn't been a fun summer but has certainly been one of growth.

I gave birth, at home, unassisted. My labor was fast and my midwives and doula didn't arrive in time. (They were on their way, my midwife was on the phone with us, we called her back once the baby's head was out, and she stayed on the phone until the assistant mifwife arrived.) Everyone was there within 30 minutes after she was born. It was something I was looking forward to, and it was easier than I ever imagined. I am so glad I had a quick easy labor! I wish everyone could experience such a birth. At first I wondered if I was as strong as people were telling me, to birth a 10 pound, 6 oz baby in my bathroom without pain meds or a skilled birth professional, because it wasn't hard. But then I realized that all my work leading up to planning a homebirth, and how comfortable I was with my knowledge of a normal natural birth, all that helped me to achieve what I had desired. A beautiful, gentle birth at home, and a great story for my youngest daughter. And also a wonderful experienced for my (at the time) almost 4 year old daughter. Minutes after the baby was born I was laughing and said, "That was awesome, I could do this a hundred more times!" I am also grateful for my first birth, which showed me that even the best planning can sometimes take a turn for the unexpected. My first daughter was planned to be born at a birth center, but I had a very long hard labor with her and ended up transferring to the hospital for exhaustion. If I never had that birth, and only had my homebirth, I might wrongly assume that birth is super easy and people who say it's hard are wimps. But now I know how different labors and births can be! I got lucky this time.

I met my future husband and got engaged to him. I graduated from college with my BSN and became a registered nurse. I am so excited to see where life takes the two of us and for this great adventure that we are on.

I applied for a new opportunity in Nov and they never responded. Finally in April, they called and it was a whirlwind interview and hiring process and I got the promotion! It was awkward to feel the sense of betrayal from my old office, even know I told her from the beginning that I wasn't happy with the changes in my role. Initially I was elated to leave and I had fantasies of how great the new place would be. Overall it's good, a bit different than I expected, but it's nice to be around more positive people. This experience just strengthened my idea that work doesn't define me and there will be positives and negatives in every situation.

This past year has been overflowing with significant experiences, but the most significant was the illness and death of my husband of 30 years. My life has come to a full stop. I miss him horribly. At the same time, I have to show a face of competence and moving forward to my two young adult sons, age 22 and 19. Sometimes I pull it off, sometimes not so much. I have good days and bad days, I'm trying to keep busy, I know I must move forward. Hopefully I will.

I decided to go ahead with divorcing my husband of 25 years, after a year of separation, seeing each other regularly, discussing our issues, even seeing a therapist. It has made me take a good clear and more financially considered look at my future. I am anxious, ambivalent, sad, confused but determined to believe that I am going to emerge stronger and happier. It will force me to be more honest, active, selective with my life and my relationships going forward. It will force me to look at my priorities and make decisions, and gives me an opportunity to recreate my life.

At work the entire year has been a significant experience. New leaders, new policies, surprises around every corner. I am not sure if I fit here anymore and am lost figuring out what to do. Sometimes I am grateful - change was needed. Most of the time, however, I am resentful. Many statements and decisions have felt like disrespect to me. I, in turn, am struggling not to be disrespectful in kind, not to play political games. I am hopeful things can get better - the cynical part of me says it won't and it is time to get out.

My father-in-law passed away. I am both resentful that they had no plan. The amount of work it took to move my mother-in-law to a home. The lack of forward thinking that they moved away from everyone, then everyone was expected to come and "fix" it. I'm grateful he passed quickly, although 2 years wasn't quick. But the end was quick. I plan to be far from my family, but I don't expect them to do anything when the time comes. I think I expect to be the last. I think it has taught me to be sure my plan is in place now, while I'm still relatively young.

My brother's pancreatic cancer, from hope with the whipple procedure, to re-occurence in the liver. I am inspired by his resilience in coming to grips with his probable shortened life span. He doesn't like to hear it, but he is an inspiration to me. My son's. with Down syndrome, panic attacks, in which he attacked me many time. I am grateful that we were able to get a diagnosis and treatment. And grateful that it led him to a wonderful group home where he is thriving.

I married the love of my life. I feel happy and grateful.

The answer that "should" go here is moving to Toronto and starting a PhD, but I don't think that's the most significant thing that's happened to me this year. I had a falling out with my sister that was the culmination of years of toxicity between us and I finally made the decision to cut her free. I think I have a tendency to maintain unhealthy relationships for all the wrong reasons and that puts me on the sideline. Ending my relationship with my sister was the first step in learning how to address toxic relationships and end them if need be. The whole thing has left me feeling really relieved and also empowered to put my needs first.

My good friends father passed away. It makes me think of how fragile life is. The reality that you can lose someone you love. Either quickly, or slowly. I'm grateful for the love my parents have for me. I'm relieved that they are in good health, motivated, and are very kind inspiring people. I resent how I don't give them enough time. I'm inspired to continue to work towards positive goals for myself, my parents, and others. They are very beautiful people. I'm inspired to be like them.

I decided to move to Israel in the next few months. Searching for a way to live my passions out and further engage the move seems to fit. I'm scared to death of what the future holds and to leave my family but the opportunity that may come I will be grateful for.

I found out that I have hypothyroidism. I'd spent years thinking I had some sort of chronic depression. Levothyroxine has helped smooth things out. The diagnosis has helped me understand some choices I've made in my past.

I left a community of supportive friends and a job I enjoyed because I realized I was settling for comfort. Such a startling realization but one that has forced me to reevaluate. Last month I packed everything I owned into my car and drove across the country to start fresh. I am feeling: lonely, unsure of myself, independent, accomplished, proud, scared, like an outsider, excited, and free.

I tried ivf with a donor, but was unsuccessful. It left me more hurt than I was expecting. Now that I see one last option I need to decide whether I want to go for it and risk losing my boyfriend who doesn't want kids.

Cliched, but my girlfriend broke up with me in January and I felt resentful and outright depressed after it. It lead me to a lot of introspection which I think will be beneficial in the long-term.

My boyfriend and I adopted a dog together. As a companion for our other dog, a sign our relationship was strong and because we needed more chaos in our lives. As excited as I initially was, I was also hesitant as this was a big step. It meant the relationship had to last and that I was committing to trusting this person after a turbulent divorce. Then I resented dog - affection, training, Andy's attention was distracted. We had to postpone an important vacation and I still feel like I haven't been able to forgive Andy or the dog. It made us examine exactly where we are and how we treat each other.

Facing the challenge with Caroline over my insensitvity towards her and my ability to respond.

I traveled to Morocco this year for a little over a week. It doesn't seem like a long time, but it changed my brain, both making me grateful for what I have, and teaching me about what it means to deal with stressful situations. We were almost robbed, got repeatedly lost, had to deal with entirely different cultural standards of personal contact, and didn't read or speak the language. I learned that I could get by with my grade-school French in a pinch, and that I was pretty capable of handling myself in a challenging situation. The landscapes I saw, the people I met, the poverty and opulence that I experienced, opened my eyes to a wider world that I needed to see. They say travel is broadening, but it's only a truism until you undergo the stretching of personality that actually occurs when you travel beyond your comfort zone.

Just a month actually, I went with Taglit-Birthright Israel to Israel. I had never been abroad before let alone to Israel. It was a life changing experience. Sure, I saw amazing things, learned interesting facts, and made lifelong friends, but none of that compares with the fact that I came back proud of being Jewish. I've always felt close to the religion, but now I actually feel proud to be Jewish rather than being quiet and almost ashamed of it. People who have gone have said that the feeling will fade, but I hope it doesn't and I'm doing what I can to keep it alive in my life.

I spent Sukkot in Jerusalem where for the first time I was able to experience the holiday as part of regular life. Every restaurant meal was eaten outside in a sukkah. People were walking around wearing shorts and sandals and carrying a lulav. Grateful, happy, blessed.

I was fired from a position of youth adviser to a group of adolescents in a local UU congregation…not for my work, which all adults in church, as well as the adolescents, found very enlightening, much more spiritual rather than based on religious "fact." I was fired because the religious education director found my offerings to the kids to be beyond her understanding, beyond her control and comprehension. I felt heart-broken to lose that sense of communion among the adolescent group, as we were journeying into more mysticism, rather than memorizing historical facts about the two combined religious teachings which formed the Universalist-Unitarian tradition in America. And the adolescents were very confused about what was happening, because they were lied to by the church authorities in terms of why I would no longer be working with them. Yes, I was very angry initially, but that feeling state quickly slipped into a sense of sorrow at what was lost, for all of us in the small group. There have been serious losses in my life, and like all human beings who stay the course of their lives, one never forgets the things that were lost, until one remembers that every loss has some jewel of a gift embedded within it. I'm grateful for the time I had with those teens, and for that sense of quickening engagement and curiosity about where our journey might take us. I accept that the women who hired and fired me are doing the best they can with what skills they have available to them; no forgiveness and no forgetting is necessary. The greater harm went to the adolescents, but nothing we explored together will necessarily ever be lost to one and all of them. They were introduced to the skill of knowing how to stay in awareness of the present moment, of God's ways of offering us so much spiritual nourishment, and the ways to discern the presence of G-d within one's self. The day after left the church, during a moment of sitting in silence and "listening for God" or as Quaker's say, "Waiting upon the Lord," a message came through loud and clear that I already "had another job" that would allow my talents to be used well. And so it was to be, and is to this time. I'm constantly inspired by such experiences with the Spirit.

Got involved emotionally. It's been a mess. Made me travel.

I can't really pin it down to one specific event, but rather to my success in something I'm continuing to pursue: my master's degree. After a bad experience with a bullying boss, I started a new job and then decided to pursue my master's. I never thought I could do it; never thought I could maintain a 4.0 ... and it's done a world of good for my self-confidence. Another experience was winning Best in Category in my organization's employee art show. I never thought that would happen either ... and it did, which meant someone chose my work, and it wasn't someone I was related to or friends with! That was another confidence boost.

Certainly our daughter's wedding, which took place just last month, was a huge experience. It took two years of planning, and over 20years of developing the girl who became the bride. It presented certain challenges because, though both bride and groom are ("very") Jewish, she grew up in suburban Columbus (idyllic) Bexley and he grew up in Jerusalem -- the son of parents who fled Iran. A Persian groom and an Ashkenazi bride. It was so much fun, and so great to be able to host his family, who now have a picture of the wonderful life that we have here -- the life that our daughter misses, since they live in Haifa in Israel. We're grateful to have been able to have such a fabulous celebration, inspired by the love that our children share, and the way they support each other on their challenging path. Relieved? A tiny bit in that all went well. But I wasn't fearful. Resentful? God forbid.

This was a year of waiting. My significant experience was, in a way, the lack of significant experiences. My fiancee and I have been living apart for the last year, and visa processing is a slow-moving machine. We have discussed acting impulsively and eloping, or living illegally in the other's country. But in the end, we've decided to be patient and wait on the process. An older lady in her church told us that this is akin to the Israelites wandering in the desert; we are to be reflective during this time as we seek God individually before we come together in marriage. There have been moments of frustration and sadness, but there have been some especially poignant and beautiful moments this year as well. I hope that, especially in the future, we will look back on this time and see our individual growth before marriage.

I turned 50 this past year. While in the end it was less of a 'significant experience' than I might have expected, it was inspiring. I feel excited to have made it this far -- and hopeful for the next bunch of years. A little wistful, perhaps, for how fast it all has gone. I tried to slow down a little to think about the power of it, but I was less than successful in that venture -- need to work on that, I guess.

Israel/Palestine, decision to leave J Street and join JVP culminating in the Gaza War. I am sure I am doing the right thing but it has caused a lot of stress and lost friends. People who refuse to believe that one can love Israel and still advocate strong action to end the occupation.

after living in austin for 2.5 years getting my masters at UT--and after moving there with every intention of living there for the rest of my life--i decided to move back home to tucson, arizona due to a cascade of unfortunate events and the simple fact that, i, a 25-year-old millennial, really missed my parents. so i moved back home, to this place where i was born and raised. this place with the shittiest street quality and following left-turn arrows and no freeways except the 10 on the outskirts of town for those times when you are going to phoenix or california (i drove on a freeway for the first time ever when i was 18, a fact that i relish telling people and one that is almost always met with considerable and hilarious revulsion/shock) and strange, dali-esque flora and quadrupled odds of running into someone you know whilst having a casual lunch out (as i did, the other day, to my mom and my first grade teacher. true story). moving home is perhaps one of the most significant experiences one can have other than moving *away* from home and, both obviously yet surprisingly, it felt like coming home. this is the world's most self-evident statement but there is no better way to describe it because, after all, those sundry people across time and letters who have penned the simile "it felt like coming home" in order to describe some other, disparate experience (like meeting their soulmate or tucking into a particularly cozy bed after a long day) are always, always, never not trying to capture that elusive, magical, crystalline feeling that actually coming home feels like. coming home feels like coming home. which is to say, it is one of the best feelings in the world, right up there with figuring out the long clues on a NYT sunday crossword or feeling the sun drape across your shoulder on an autumn afternoon.

I sold my book to a publisher. I was relieved that my story is interesting to people other than me, grateful to be able to close the wounds, and that I was able to close the book on the whole sorry "Jennifer" chapter of my life. (pardon the puns)

Started back at college, entering an entirely different field of study- at age 40...which actually should be my significant experience(turning 40), but really was just another birthday for me. I'm grateful to my family for their support, relieved to finally be doing it instead of talking about it, and inspired by the opportunity to be doing something of value with my life- for my sake and the sake of my kids. Resentful, nah, not my style to be resentful of anything. That should just about cover it

I rejoined Weight Watchers, since our workplace wellness program began offering Weight Watchers at Work, with a 50% reimbursement if we attend all the sessions. I've lost 20 lbs. I am grateful! I want to recommit to Weight Watchers, tracking each food and beverage (wine!) that I consume. I want to lose 30 more lbs. in the new year. I want to be more conscious of what goes into my body, and appreciate my body for carrying me through life.

I sold my car that I drove down to Austin in (my first I had purchased on my own) - The Stallion. Joe Lee shot photos for the ad that kept getting flagged, which turned out super funny, but unnecessary. I sold it to a junkyard for $400. I bought the Corolla too, which was my first car I'd purchased new, and I financed it. Overall, I'm happy with my decision, although I wasn't at first. I hated that car since it represented all the money I had just spent, but it's pretty much everything I want in a car. I should probably get the interior cleaned, but I probably won't.

What jumps to mind is all of the new teaching at Temple Shalom. I feel as if I am finally in a place where I understand the through line of my teaching - and I love it and appreciate. Alan Ullman is an inspirational teacher to me. His classes, regardless of the title, are ultimately the same focus - the names in the Torah have meaning. Let's look at the text and look at the names. I am trying to teaching Judaics/Tefillah/Hebrew with a through line on "storytelling" - in the style of Joel Grishavers "Stories We Pray." In the 6th grade "Hebrew" class yesterday, we were looking at Ahavah Rabbah as a review and as a way to practice breaking words into syllables. But one of the students asked, "Why should this mean anything to me if someone just made it up?" And that lead to the first of what I expect and hope will be a series of provocative and probing discussions and explorations of prayer/torah/Hebrew.

I joined an Adult B'Nai Mitzvah program last September (shout out to 6th & I Synagogue in Washington, DC). In the year since, I not only learned a lot about Judaism, I joined an amazing community of people, many of whom have become very dear friends. I had never really been part of a Jewish community before. It has changed my life for the better, and I feel so grateful.

I always struggle with this type of question. As a single woman, sending out Christmas letters is always difficult because rarely do I have anything momentous occur. No children growing up, no marriage, etc. In looking back on the past year, I suppose the most significant thing was my summer relationship. It's been 10 years since my last relationship, and I feel like it was a great thing that needed to occur. It was a 'functional' relationship, so now I feel more complete when discussing my dating history. I also came to the conclusion pretty early on that this was not a long-term thing. It was difficult ending it, and I still get a little wistful thinking about it, but it's what needed to happen. The fact that he also ended it helped a lot, too!!

We decided to try to get pregnant. I'm terrified, but really excited. I have not figured out how we are going to afford this, but I don't think we'd ever really be "ready" if we thought like that. At this stage in life, I think we are definitely ready psychologically.

I wrote about infertility which opened up my story to the world and attention to the issue. I'm just in a really bad place with all of it right now but it did help to open it up and start drawing focus to the issue of lack of resources in the Jewish community.

I had a baby! I'm so grateful for him - just looking at him makes me happy!

I had a baby and my father died. The best year of my life so far and the worst year of my life so far. I am grateful to have a baby and I am incredibly grateful to have had time with my father before he passed. I miss him, though, when my child does something I know he would have appreciated (like eat solid food, or sing with me). And some moments I'm angry and disappointed about things he did (like convince me to sell Amway in college when I had no money to buy in, but did it anyway). I try to overlook those failures since none of us succeeds 100% of the time as parents.

I qualified for the Boston Marathon at 40. I am satisfied and inspired to improve even more, not just in running but in other areas of my life. With hard work, so much can happen that you might not have believed possible.

I left my old job and began a new one..a much better job. I feel relieved, energized and that I found a way out of a major rut.

I was able to go to South Africa with friends. Being with them for amazing experiences -- from sunrises to watching a lion pride up close for hours; seeing a rhino calf and its mom; meeting people who surprised us in various ways. It was wonderful in every way, and especially since I could share it. As a widow, I can and do travel alone but this trip was very special and I will always treasure it. I know my friends better now and they know me better -- I need to remember to open myself up to the people around me and share more experiences. New bonds can be forged!

I got interrupted from my university course and am now taking a gap year, which I did not want to take. However I think it is going to change me for the better as it is now allowing me to do things like travelling before I start my full on course again.

My mother in law passed away 2 weeks ago. She was 86 and had a full life, but I did not realize what an amazing person she really was until we were writing her obituary. She raised 4 children in a tiny home, she was an amazing scratch cook, sewed the girls clothes, could play piano and was a painter. She also was a school secretary and watched over all the kids-the good ones and the "ones always in trouble". I'm a little sad I did not know that part of her as well as I should have. I'm inspired by her example and still feel I have time to be a better person.

I ran a half marathon! I got really into my training and nutrition and as soon as it was over promptly fell into my old rut of sporadic working out and eating right. I fell in love with running and was so proud of my progress, but was so disappointed with myself when I let it slide (and continue to). I guess I learned that I need an event to train for to really make sure that I'm sticking with it. Which also frustrates me because why isn't my health important enough to me to make a priority?! I need to work on that.

I decided to give all my music away for free about a month ago. Downloads, not the cds. Many are doing this and I can't fight the tide or deny that I was never going to make a living at this. I feel somewhat relieved and hope I will feel more free and inspired to create. But I also felt like I got my guts ripped out when I committed to that choice. The same feeling I had when I found out my ex wife cheated on me.

Found a friend who loves me unconditionally. Helping me with my drinking. She is a school teacher who shows me hope and kindbess.

Without going into detail, over the last year I have gone from feelings of hopelessness, despair and shame over a particular issue, to a shift of internal healing, hope and a renewed sense of my value, purpose and ability to contribute to the world. I did this through a process of coming to terms with my shadow self - opening old wounds, "owning" myself fully, and sitting with truth....over and over and over, until the light that I was able to shine on these dark and painful places allowed them to be seen, and then healed. Grateful, relieved, inspired....yes, yes, yes. Renewed. Whole.

I got fired from my job before I really got a chance to shine... I know I did my best given the circumstances I was dumped into and my best simply wasn't good enough. This has made me question my value and worth. I didn't even really like the job or the people there, but none the less it has shaken me to the core. I've been really depressed all year and super unsure of myself. I am angry and confused still (7 months later). I've also had a lot of trouble finding a new job. It breaks my heart because I've always believed I could change the world, but now I feel like I can't even change my situation... Somethings got to give eventually, right? On the other hand my boyfriend and I decided to move in together and raise his son together... This experience has been amazing and could not have happened if I was still working 80+ hours per week. My boys light up my world... Watching the little one grow, growing my partnership with the big one. He has been incredibly supportive and understanding. I'm so grateful for our little family.

I am currently in my second year as a nursing student. I have always considered my self pasionate to my fellow humans but now appreciate the experience in a new light. By the time I read this next year, I will be graduated and hopefully starting a new career. I am grateful to final have to opportunity to persue my dream. I am hopeful and inspired about my future and have been lucky to the support of my long term boyfriend.

Spring semester of master's program included doing community based theatre in an elementary school. Even though I knew intellectually how awful our public schools were, it was terrible to see that reality first hand. The kids had no time for play and lunch and the administration didn't support their projects at all because we were taking away from "instructional time." I wanted to drop the class so much...every week it pushed me in ways that were challenging and stressful. I'm thankful that it's done, but I can also tell that it taught me a lot about just showing up, focusing on process over product.

I have been miserable at my job for the past year and a half and I decided to network like crazy over the past 6 months. I must have met everyone in my industry in NYC and it worked - I'm starting a great new job in a few weeks.

Transitioning from therapy art to water art. totally inspired.

I took a trip to London with my teenage son this spring. It was a wonderful experience, especially since we visited together a synagogue on shabbat in East London. Very inspiring and the whole trip strengthened our relationship. I am greatful for this trip.

I launched the California Community of Men, and helped grow it to almost 600 members, and also helped produce its first Community Camp weekend. I am incredibly grateful for the singular opportunity to give back to my new community, and receive internal validation in return.

This past winter I was in a pretty serious car accident. (Highway+black ice+ first ambulance ride). Miraculously, I was not actually injured, just pretty bruised and really, really sore. My car was obviously totaled and it hurt to breathe for almost 2 months (injured ribs are not fun.) It took me a while to even realize the lasting impact that experience had on me. I was afraid of everything and it was affecting my quality of life. Eventually, enough time passed to allow me a little perspective and a new appreciation for the power that fear can have over you. I'm certainly not grateful for the accident but I am a stronger person for having dealt with it.

My wife and I bought our first home this year. We are both older, marrying for the first time after age 40 (largely because it is finally legal), and home ownership is something we have both been raised to see as a mark of success. I still remember being a child moving from an apartment to a house for the first time and how that felt for me personally and for my family as a whole. We are well aware of the current economic theories that say renting is better and we agree with the main points of that theory, especially considering the variable factors of US economic recovery, California drought conditions, climate change, and world unrest. The world's current situation does not make home ownership seem like a brilliant idea and, if we were younger, we might have opted for a more portable lifestyle. But my wife and I are 49 and 45, have been married for one lovely, blissful year, and are enamored of the idea of home ownership and how that validates us. That it validates us on a scale that is no longer used by the majority matters little to us, two women who have managed to create a solvent family from two struggling individual histories. I am happy in our home, happy to be paying a mortgage instead of rent, happy to have this check mark in the column of "adult milestones." I am relieved that we both got to check this off our lists and that we are good at it, good at budgeting our money and saving for a rainy day. Good at maintenance and good at being homebodies. But I worry, too. Worry that catastrophic world changes will eventually encroach upon our idyllic, benign existence and force us to leave our small, reasonable home for something much less certain, much more frightening. I can only hope that we will be up to the task should such a challenge approach. Until then, I am happy and that is what matters most.

I put my arm through a window (banging on it in frustration) and cut it severely. It's still getting better, in fact, as of Rosh Hashana. I am relieved that I didn't hurt myself worse and ashamed that I did something like that, and keep reminding myself that everyone gets frustrated, many people take it out in physical ways that don't harm others, and not everyone gets badly hurt by it. Nevertheless, I am still rather embarrassed, and sad that there are still things I can't do until it gets better. On the other hand, I am incredibly grateful for my husband's love and care, and it had the effect of deepening my appreciation for him. He did such a wonderful job when the accident occurred and continues to be supportive. And my friends have been great, too. So it's not entirely a bad thing. The accident has also helped me slow down and that's a good thing. If the lessons I am being taught this way continue to inform my actions and my gratitude then this becomes more of a positive than a negative experience. I hope to turn the scar into a tattoo to remind me (and, OK, to look cool.)

Joined rugby about November last year as a way to find non-destructive friendships. I'm very grateful to have found a team that supports me and my beliefs. Also grateful to be back slowly gaining the trust of my other half whom I love everyday more and more. Rugby has now become a passion of mine and it is a "safe" place for me.

My very good friend Ed had a severe stroke on September 17, 2014. This not only changed his world, but it changed mine as well! Looking down at his semi-comatose body on September 18th was a HUGE wakeup call for me. I realized at that moment how much he actually meant to me, and how important he was in my life. Subsequently I broke off a relationship with a very shallow man and followed my heart. Ed and I (and Ed's very close family) became closer than ever before. I watched this very courageous man learn to swallow again, how to chew again, how to walk again, etc. etc. He was an incredible example to all who know him of God's Grace. There were at least two times in the emergency situation that God's hand was clearly in the mix, and the recovery that Ed has very steadfastly made is amazing. I fell in love with Ed this year, and on July 5, 2014 we were married, surrounded by friends and family who love both of us. Who knew a year ago how things would look today?

This has been a year of many experiences and personal changes; both good and bad. The biggest and best would have to be that my husband and I finally went on our honeymoon, which entailed me going to another country for the second time in my life, and I also felt no fear while flying for the first time in my life. Since that trip, I feel that he and I are becoming a more cohesive unit, day by day. We work as a team, and always prefer each other's company to anything else--another first in my history of romantic partnerships. I am feeling very grateful and blessed to have this kind of love and loyalty in my life.

The significant experience of the last year was my trip to Paris for the Cafe Writing in Paris experience. Although I teach classes in Women Traveling Solo, I have not been alone on my last trips. I was really looking forward to the Cafe Writing part of the trip, but what I did not anticipate was the expertise of Patricia in planning an experience of Paris that included cuisine, walking tours, a visit to her Paris apartment and the absolute delight of the Maris, the Jeanne d Arc hotel and traveling around Paris on buses. I fell in love with the city and am planning to return next November for a "re-do". I will stay alone again in my Paris home hotel and write. What was most significant was I had only sold one home the first six months of 2014. When I left in June, I had to line up enough coaching clients to create $500 to buy Euros for spending money. I went as cheaply as anyone could and loved the experience. When there did not seem to be enough, unusual things would happen. My brother Jim gave me $100 for the trip, Nora sent me $50, Sandy gave me 20 Euros...it was remarkable and humbling. My hotel had an open breakfast room after 11:00 AM in which we could bring in food for our dinner, lunch or evening wine and cheese/pate. People came, chatted with each other and enriched the experience. The group I wrote with was some distance away offering a 20 minute walk to ready myself for the writing time. I learned how to order in the restaurants, just a little French which I am now enhancing in a class and with an online program. I continue to read about Paris, was interviewed by the Naperville Sun regarding my class that began the week I returned about cooking for one. Using the exquisite scallops I had at Le Cellar in Paris as my inspiration, I learned how to cook them at home and they are now one of my favorite meals for one. I changed the coffee I drink, no more flavored coffee...French Roast and I definitely can drink fewer cups per day. I feel like a woman in love...a woman who has surprisingly found a new city to love...I cannot wait for the next Paris experience.

I skipped 10Q last year. So I feel like I'm doing this for the past two years. So I'll say this: The biggest thing recently has been getting engaged and planning a wedding to the most incredible man I know. We'll be married in just over two weeks. Planning a wedding is frustrating and gives me tons of anxiety, but I am truly so excited to share that day with our friends and family, then to share my life with J.R. as husband and wife. I don't know what our marriage will look like (Where will we settle down? Will we have kids?), but I'm excited to see what's to come with him by my side. Some other really important events: I wrote a book proposal! I just finished my contributions to the book, Designing a Home. The developers are preparing a proposal and are going to take it to the Frankfurt book fair the same weekend of our wedding. Wanting to write a book was on my list of desires for my last 10Q two years ago. I just re-read my 2012 answers and smiled at the idea that I really accomplished something I wanted to do. J.R.'s dad passed away. That was tough. But it made me appreciate even more that he and I are on the same page, spiritually. I couldn't imagine being with somebody who doesn't believe the same things happen to us in that mystical space after death. It's easy to comfort him knowing that I don't have to say "You'll see him again" or "He's thinking about you in heaven."

in a time of personal need my so called friend was not there for me. It caused feelings of pain and sadness. I became resentful towards her and didn't want to make any effort in the relationship. She has no idea how she hurt me. This has happened before with women I know. I want women of substance in my life.

I landed a big writing job which has changed things in many ways. Being fully booked for three months meant I had to turn work down - something I'd been scared to do before. And the clients came back. So now I'm more confident to say no to work, rather than scrabbling for more time to work at the expense of my family and my own projects. I made most of my money this year from writing, rather than editing. This has removed a huge mental block and now I'm writing for myself, on my own projects, and chasing other writing jobs. I feel like 'a writer'. The extra money has enabled us to do some work on the garden that has been on my to-do list for a while, and which will improve our lives immeasurably. It feels really good. I feel very grateful, very proud of myself for tendering for the job in the first place, and determined to build on it as much as I can in the coming year.

Jonah was born!!! Definitely significant. Life is totally different now than it was a year ago. The first few months were really rough, but now we have a lot of good days. He is happy and fun-loving, and I feel like I'm figuring out some of this mommy stuff. Being a mom is a really strange feeling--sometimes I can't believe this is my life, and other times I can't imagine it any other way.

When I was 51 I went wig shopping with my mom who was losing her hair as a result of chemo for pancreatic cancer. She was disappointed there was no 'hair like ours' available when she was selecting her wig. She lost her life the following year. For the last six years I was honoring a commitment to her and growing my hair so that I could donate it. Last week I cut 13 inches off the length of my hair. It marked more than just a physical change for me. It was emotionally and energy-wise a significant change in my mourning. Not that I don't still mourn the loss of my mom, but the moment I cut it, I felt a huge heaviness lifted from within. I am grateful that I kept my promise to my mom. I am relieved to be no longer carrying, which I didn't realize at the time, this physical manifestation of my mourning. And, during Elul, when one practices teshuvah, I find myself returning to the energetic outgoing person I was before my mothers illness. A true gift to myself.

My husband and I decided to sell everything we had to go on a trip. it was worth every penny. we came back refreshed to re-build our live and did so. it taught me how much more important are experiences than possessions. I'll do it all over again in a heart-beat-

My most significant event was my Cochlear Implant and the following rehabilitation and relearning how to hear. It is still a work in progress, requires a lot of practice, and has a way to go to be where I would like it. The process has been amazing; I am learning a lot about ears & hearing, about myself, & about the people & things out there in the world that I want to hear and with whom I communicate. Yes I am more than grateful for those that developed CIs, for my competent & personable surgeon, for the number of friends that have CIs that continue to offer me advice & suggestions, and mostly to my husband who practices with me, nags me to do the exercises and goes with me to all my appointments. It has been magical year.

I am 46 years old--active, in good health, and have never had any type of physical impairment. I am also a single parent of a nine-year old daughter. A few months ago, I had emergency surgery on my spine for a severely herniated disc that had started to cause paralysis in my leg. Surgery prevented further damage to my nerves, and over the course of two months, damaged nerves regenerated. Physical therapy also helped me re-learn how to use my leg muscles. I was fortunate that quick action by my doctor kept the situation from becoming a permanent disability for me. Only until you've experienced a potentially life-changing or -ending situation can you really understand people's advice on appreciating what you already have. Appreciate each moment as best you can, and know that tomorrow is not promised to anyone.

In the past year I was accepted into the Athletic Training Program at Washington State University. I was shocked at first and had been preparing to not be accepted. Because of the incredible time commitment and the unfortunate time I had to come back to school, I was ready to decline my acceptance. But, shortly realized that this was a huge opportunity and I was picked for this program for a reason. It has been a huge commitment but I enjoy it very much and I am learning so much.

My husband was diagnosed with cancer. I feel all of those things. Its a very confusing time. Like our life is on hold. Like the world should just stop and wait until we're ready to go on.

Realising that I was in love with two people at once. One of whom was my partner and one who wasn't. It made me sad that I would eventually have to choose between two lovely people, and end up hurting someone as a result. It made me resentful that society's norms dictated I could not have both of them in my life. And it made me joyously glad, because I never believed it was possible. After years of solitude or lacklustre relationships, to have such strong connections with such wonderful people made my heart soar. It made me realise that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to people, emotions or relationships. Everyone is different and every situation is unique, and you should never berate yourself for how you feel. Judge yourself on how you act... for feelings are beyond your control.

This year I am very proud to have successfully completed my ryt 200 yoga teacher certificate. It took me way out of my comfort zone but I prevailed and completes just last week. I did this for my own practice primarily but now that I have it I am thinking what not pursue some opportunities? Stay tuned....

My mother fell. She's fallen quite a lot over the past several years, but this time it was at my house, and it was bad. She's only 69, but she has severe mobility issues that the doctors suspect is caused my mild cerebral palsy, undiagnosed until now. Just a few weeks ago, she fell again, and her neighbor called to tell me (she never tells me herself). I realized I had to get serious about making arrangement for her care. It makes me sad, more than a little resentful, that when I'm the most challenging stage of my own family life (2 little ones) and career, I already have to start taking care of aging parents. I'm making a trip home soon to meet with doctors and try to make sure that her living conditions are sustainable. I'm not read for all this, but then again, who ever is?

I wrote my first novel. It isn't bad, either, and I feel very proud. It has changed the way I see myself. My wife still hasn't read it -- I think because she doesn't believe I could write anything of consequence. But I know it's good. Now my goal is revisions and a search for a literary agent who will love the characters as I do.

I divorced myself from a crazy (literally) boss. She was the owner of the restaurant, I had worked there 5 years, and considered myself a valuable and good employee. I am grateful (and relieved!) to learn that I can rely on my own knowledge and self worth to find other good employment. I am grateful to learn that I actually am valuable.

I learned some friendships aren't really friendships. I'm hurt, I'm feeling kinda abandoned, and I finally realized that I was never really a "friend". I was a project, maybe a charity case. And I was always looked down on, condescended to, and patronized. It's not been a good year in some ways. Especially since the person I'm talking about is the one who got me into this whole 10Q thing.

Definitely the biggest experience was having my first baby. My pregnancy was very easy, but my labor and delivery were complicated. Against my intentions, I had to have an emergency c-section. To put it mildly--it was unpleasant. I got over it quickly, as I immediately had another challenge. My baby wasn't growing or drinking milk successfully. This was the darkest time I have ever experienced. Eventually, we found a professional who could help us, and the problem was resolved. It was about three months before I felt like my baby and I were in the clear. While I didn't enjoy the experience, it has made me know myself and my relationship better. I know I can't rely on my husband for emotional support in challenging times. I have to find other sources of comfort. I learned I am capable and resourceful. I also learned that I have a fantastic support system, and that I when i ask for help I am supported. Overall, the entire experience left me with a new understanding of the responsibility of being a parent and a sense of gratitude to my friends. I am relieved it is over. I hope to never experience the same the again, but I can't say that I am worse off for the experience. I love being with my baby and am so excited that we are moving on together.

My relationship with a unique and complicated man friend was driving me to despair so I found a good therapist - my first. I knew what the problems were, which the therapist confirmed, but needed help deciding how best to proceed. The relationship will, no doubt, always be a challenge but one remarkable thing I discovered is how when one gives love freely and unconditionally instead of withholding it out of resentment, not only is it reciprocated in some form or other but dark clouds evaporate, the sun shines, birds sing, life is sweet...

My ex propositioned me. After 2 years of being broken up he said he's ready to commit to a partner. But before that he wanted to ask whether there's an ice-cube's chance in hell that I would consider being with him again. It was very unexpected for me since we had been in very loose contact. I'm grateful and humbled by the fact that my ex is so enamored by me :) and inspired by his bravery and humility. I am also relieved bc I too have not been able to stop thinking about him the whole 2 years we've been broke up (with the exception of those times I was making out with Andy, Ed and Joe..) My ex and I are now considering marriage.

Now my primary interests lie in the field of Cognitive Neuroscience, not physics. I'm all charged up to explore the nature of the human mind, to bring all sci-fi to life. I am grateful, but confused about that reaction. Maybe I could have cracked the GUT, who knows. I plan on coming back to physics after dealing with Consciousness (I need to go fast on that), but who knows what'll happen. In any case, I'm good.

I got married. I cannot even begin to describe how elated it made me feel. I have known for years that I would marry her but the culmination really was beautiful. The entire thing, despite requiring tons of planning and very little going according to that plan, was beyond beautiful and couldn't have been better. I am amazed at how so little has changed yet my perspective and views toward the future seem immediately brighter, hopeful, and more forceful.

A few months ago, I stopped communicating with my sister. It's been a lifetime coming, but I finally reached the point where I could no longer deal with her or enable her harmful behaviors. I have let go of the resentment I long felt towards her, and a bit relieved at letting myself let go of responsibility for her and her actions. Mostly, though, I feel a deep and abiding sadness and I mourn the loss of someone I dearly love.

My dear, magnificent friend Shira died. She left this world with eyes open and hands open to the sky. She left peacefully and gracefully. Being at her bedside as her soul left her body was one of the most significant experiences I've ever had in my entire life. It was beautiful. It solidified my belief in the journey of souls. Ever since her passing, I have felt an arc of unconditional love spread like a canopy from horizon to horizon wherever I am, present with me through whatever I feel. I am grateful to have born witness to her ascension. I am relieved that she is no longer suffering. I am gratified that we have a connection to that which is beyond human experience. And I am inspired to become a vessel (soon, god-willing) for a waiting soul to embody on this planet, in this life, through me. I love you Shira, I miss you, I love you.

I had been in a depressed state for about the last 10 months, eating poorly, not exercising, feeling sorry for myself (for no reason really). Just when I was starting to feel better, ready to rejoin my life, I broke my foot. At first I was frustrated and angry, but as the weeks have worn on, I have become grateful. I have realized how important my health is to me, and how I was taking it for granted by letting myself become so motionless in my life in so many ways. I have begun to move mentally and emotionally again and can't wait to begin to move physically when my foot has healed.

My mother's kidney sickness was a challenging exprience this year. I was deeply moved by her weakness and surprised by the way I was able to cope and deal with the whole situation. It was a tough exprience but I was satisfied to be on the level required for it.

My uncle died the night before my birthright trip. I was extremely resentful when I got to Israel. When my group when to the Western Wall I had a very significant conversation with my trip leader Charley. We were all given paper to write a note to put in the wall and I said that I probably shouldn't write one because I had nothing nice to say. Charley's response was that I should write it, write all of my feelings, because if I didn't I would regret it. I took that conversation to heart and spent the rest of my time in Israel really listening for what God would say back. Finally laying in the middle of the desert I understood that, while it wasn't fair that my uncle had passed away, there was no better time for it to happen and it brought so much to my experience in Israel because it let me really open up.

The death of a good friend. I am inspired by the grace and unflinching acceptance with which she faced her final months. She provided the model that we accept what we cannot change. The use of personal energy in anger or denial wastes the energy that may be spent in the many other ways that life may be lived.

I moved to a new city and started a new career in a totally new field. I just found out today I got the promotion I really wanted, just in time for me to renew my lease with confidence. The year had its ups and downs, for sure, but as of right now: I am feeling grateful and excited for the future!

I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis after two years of wrong diagnosis and treatment. I'm glad to have a name and treatment for what's happening to me, but I am still adjusting to the ups and downs of it. It's frightening to have what is supposed to be a lifetime condition, in terms of my personal health and in terms of health care. I'm afraid I might let it be an excuse to not do things, because it makes me feel like just staying in bed some days. I don't want to be that person.

This year after applying to several jobs I finally got an interview at a great company. I feel like the interview went wonderfully, and the interviewer took me on a tour of the department the job was in. I was very excited, but afterwards never received a call back about the job. I tried not to get my hopes up about it, but honestly I am crushed. It would have paid almost double what I am making now, with better benefits.

B and I got married! Planning the wedding was very stressful, but I was so excited to get married. The day sped by and was very chaotic, but we were smiling the whole time. I wasn't even nervous standing up there. Just so, so excited.

It's been a long time since I've loved life. Sure I've liked it. I've liked what I was doing. I was having good experiences. I was learning. But man - what a difference there is between like and love. I moved to San Francisco. I was so hesitant- so worried I wouldn't like it. I knew it'd be a great work experience- but would it be like all the rest of the times I've rotated? No friends? Long commute? Not at all. How lucky and grateful I am! I see the ocean every day. My dog is elated when playing in the water - which in turn makes me elated. There are outdoor things to do and indoor things to do and friends to do them with. And as I get healthier and the endorphins rush through me, there are more men interested than have been in a long time. This move has been a fantastic experience and I'm more positive than I've ever been. I have a great outlook on life these days and I'm thankful.

This is obvious...the birth of my son. As most every new parent states, he never ceases to amaze me. He reminds me to laugh and to find the joy in everything single thing that you see (and generally, in every single thing he tries to eat). He has expanded my heart and the capacity I have for love. When he smiles at me, I am shown that it doesn't matter what else is going on, I am the most important thing to him at that moment. And he has taught me the meaning of being tired. He is the most rambunctious and active little boy, but I am so proud to be his mommy. Simply, he has changed my life forever.

Burning Man I am so grateful for having had / been given the opportunity to make this dream a reality. Jo's give away to make this happen for me, was touching. I am also grateful for having the opportunity to do something that was a challenge and pushed me, these types of experiences are always so rewarding; I felt a sense of pride having accomplished making this a reality. I was also incredibly inspired by the experience. To see such a rich and full culture come to life in the middle of the dessert built on intention and a set of principles, reminded me of what we (humans) are possible of and that saying something is not possible only limits us.

My daughter was involved in a horrific incident with a boyfriend and within her marriage. I am still reeling from the emotions surrounding that. The solution hasn't yet happened (court date in October) but I remain worried. The situation is driving me back to my core roots in taking care of myself and opening my heart to spiritual solutions.

A beyond significant experience i had this past year was in March when i went to Costa Rica for my 200-hr yoga teacher training. It was quite possibly one of the best and most powerful experiences of my life. It has truly started me on the journey i am on now, which is primarily to become a beautiful yoga intructor, although, i have realized that it has opened my eyes to many other experiences along the way. I am discovering the practice of meditation, ayurveda, kundalini yoga, and various other incredible things to help learn about myself and build a healthy lifestyle and self. The most important part of my experience in Costa Rica was the people i met there. I will forever be grateful for the relationships built with the beautiful souls that collaborated there together. I learned a million things about myself, had a surprising full blown mini falling in love experience, fell in love with friends, fell in love with yoga even more, and will bring that chapter with me along my way. I am beyond grateful, and words cant even begin to truly capture how it has impacted me.

My mother-in-law passed away. It has made me sad and sensitive to my husband's sense of loss. It has left me aware of the potential sadness and depression my husband, sister -, father- and brother-in-laws and I will feel as we prepare for and spend Christmas together. (Honestly-but not proudly) - I feel some relief that there is one less aging parent to be "worrying" over and hope not to be a burden on others as I, myself, age. I turned 70 this month. Yes - there is some resentment at how much time and energy has had to go into "caring for" our now "aged" parents. I would have welcomed more opportunities for "joyful sharing" and less time spent in hospitals and doctors' offices. Now here's something to commit to for the New Year!

My wife lost her job and had a nervous breakdown. She has been struggling with postpartum depression since the birth of our son two years ago and it recently came to a head with her being let go and having seriously suicidal ideations about two months ago. I has affected me greatly due to my needing to work more to support our family and be even more positive and supportive when I am generally an introverted, wounded idealist. I am grateful that it has driven her to seek professional help for her depression and is led us to become more close with one another as she recovers. It ultimately has also helped me to see where I was falling short as a husband and father and made me more aware of the present and brought me out of the internal fugue state I was living in to deal with the stresses of life.

I had a falling out with a friend of ten years. It has been a very hurtful experience because I felt our relationship would stand the test of time. Despite both of our attempts to reconciliate the relationship remains indefenitely fractured. I try to see it from this person's perspective but lately have found this challening.

The whole of my year has been characterized by having experiences and acting in ways that are dictated by my mental illness. Absurd rage over small incidents like the garbage not being where I want it. Sort of like reversing into childhood and loosing my grip on the adulthood I had worked for. Inspiration, gratitude, reliefe are not in my emotional repertoire. Resentful? Plenty of that. My faculties for self examination, critical thinking, and spirituality have died off.

My artwork was selected to be shown in a gallery in the area where I live. This is the first time that my work has been shown in a gallery outside of the ones associated with my graduate program. It was a wonderful experience and to see the people who showed up to celebrate with me. The experience made me feel fulfilled. This is something that I have wanted for a long time and only in the past few years have I been able to find the confidence to take steps necessary to being an artist. It took a tragedy to get here, but I will never forget it. Since this event, there have been a few similar experiences and with each new one, I am grateful and exhilarated, because I know that I am on the right path. This is what I was mean't to do.

ISIL is beheading Americans and we are at war again - droughts are horrible - Ebola - all of these are upsetting to me. There are other small, good things - my best friend had her baby and another friend whom I haven't heard from in over 10 years wrote me back and apologised for not being there when I needed her. But of everything, the major event this year for me has been the loss of Philip Seymour Hoffman (and tangentially, the loss of Robin Williams). I am grateful and inspired to get back into acting and singing myself. I am resentful that Phil made the choice to let go and not hang on, and I am deeply saddened. I am also more determined than before not to slip into suicidal depression - because losing Mr. Hoffman made me so angry and so much more passionate about the cause of storytelling and now I know that I have to give back during my time on earth and that in doing so I may in some tiny way recompense the talent we have lost.

In the last year, our temple changed its minyan schedule and it's not so easy to do now. I'm very disillusioned and resentful about it - why do Friday, Wednesday and Tuesday not deserve having minyan morning prayers? It's very hard to take sporadic events seriously and even harder to actually attend. I used to lay my clothes out the night before in the exercise room so I could get up early and out before bothering anyone, it used to give me a daily lift and a feeling that I had contributed to something Jewish in the morning. Now, even when I remember that tomorrow is a minyan morning, I'm not at all likely to lay out my clothes and set the alarm. I've found that Judaism is a religion of self-control and planning, but I really needed that "rote" and routine to get me up a out. Added to the fact that the cantor I loved was replaced by a cantor I feel NO connection with, and the whole re-inspiration of my Jewish life has kind of gone flat, and yes, I'm resentful because I feel like I can't relate as well to that place or those people anymore.

We finally got the majority of the work on the farm done and put it up for sale.It's the right thing to do and will be a burden off my family but I can't help but feel sad that it never became the passion for my daughter that I hoped it would.

I lost my job. It has turned my life upside down and made me re-evaluate what I want and who I want to be in a workplace, in a relationship, as a adult. I am grateful and hopeful. I think the experience has all of those emotions: relief, resent, inspiration. I am a little disappointed in those around me and myself. But I am also excited about how my future is uncertain and could be great. I am also learning to trust myself.

I left my full-time job and have turned down others in the meantime. I'm trying to do more, professionally and personally, for myself. At this point the prevailing emotion is still fear. Working on moving past that to let the inspiration, excitement, relief aspects shine more brightly.

I discovered and acknowledged that a night of "drunken sex" was actually a rape I endured. It happened in late 2007, but I had a flashback of the event in February of this year (the flashback was precipitated by a segment on a TV talk show). Since this acknowledgment, I have confronted the person, pressed charges against that person, and haven't spoken to or seen that person since.

I got pregnant for the first time. I have had to question a lot of things I assumed I would think were important while pregnant, and I have been surprised about how passive I have been in some aspects of carrying a baby. I have also had to learn to compromise with my husband over things that I think are important or like, but he feels the opposite way. I'm grateful that we had no trouble conceiving and so far, it has been an uneventful pregnancy. I've been a little resentful about how much I have to change my life when my husband doesn't, but I accept it.

I struggle to make friends. I can be a really outgoing person, but it takes a lot for me to be like that. I thrive when I am in an authority position and I get the chance to lead others, and that's where I make the most friends. But, that doesn't mean I have a lot of friends. I prefer one or two close friends to a bunch of friends. Last September, I started a new job and was on a new staff. I took my time feeling out the staff but knew that I had to be true to myself and honest about who I was. I think that scared a lot of people away, but I was okay with that. I didn't want to be around people who were scared of my me-ness. One person on the staff really stuck out though- they wanted to be my friend and it was great. We become pretty inseparable almost instantly and people noticed. There was a rumor that we were dating, which was so funny because he and I talked about everything, including his sex life and the stress of his girlfriend being away for the quarter. I told him everything and within an month, we were crazy close. We saw each other everyday, ate most meals together, and even decided to have the same Halloween costume. Our friendship was intense but worth it- we both needed to have that one rock in our lives. However, his girlfriend was not a fan. At all. She was so paranoid that he would cheat on her, she started demanding we stop hanging out. It was ridiculous- if she had just gotten to know me, she could see I wasn't competition. I thought we could just keep being friends until she got back and she got to see that I was basically her boyfriend's sister, not a threat. But no- she gave him an ultimatum and he choose her. Which makes sense, but it made me so sad- not only cause I had lost a really close friend (it is amazing how close you can get to someone in 2 months) but I also saw a 20yr boy being controlled by his girlfriend. It made me really rethink what I viewed as a "healthy" relationship and made me wonder why we need so much control over other peoples lives. I was resentful that he didn't have the back-bone to stand up to her and say "I love you and you are my girlfriend, but you are not my world- I need this friend and you need to be okay with that". But, that never happened. Every time I saw him after that (which was about one a week), I had to control all the hate inside of me. I knew he was a good person and he was just trying to save what was most important to him, but I couldn't believe that amount of control he gave up to be with that girl. A girl who would always be jealous. A girl who would never accept him having his own friend. A girl that I vowed to never be.

I suppose the most significant thing I experienced this year was seeing my family again after a year and a half. It was bitter sweet because on one hand I am extremely grateful to have my wonderful family and friends. I was so happy to be with my nephew for the first time and enjoyed every minute of changing diapers and helping him fall asleep. On the other hand it was hard to see my family and friends going about their lives without me. As if me being gone would put a stop to their lives. But it didn't. They are fine and getting along okay without me. I'm sure they miss me too. Then when I returned to Italy after my trip, I felt like I had come home. To my new home. deciding that I want to get married and stay in Italy to be with Massimo is a choice I have made. But it is bitter sweet. I am still a bit lost in my emotions but maybe going through that experience softened the transition a little bit.

I was promoted to my current job, well ahead of my peers and much faster than I ever dreamed possible. And the best part...I love my new job. I was worried that I might not be ready, but the challenge and excitement keep me energized. I'm so grateful for this opportunity to have a second successful career.

an opportunity arose in business, that i thought would be of mutual benefit to all parties involved. it never materialized, which in the beginning i was resentful. however, it has inspired me to try my own ideas for my own benefit.

My mom competed chemotherapy and beat her lung cancer, at least for now. I am inspired by her strength through the whole process. I am terrified about her cancer retuning. Throughout the whole process she swore if her cancer came back, she wouldn't do chemo again. I'm scared that she will stick to that promise. Trying to remain the positive influence in my family is exhausting. I'm trying to remain positive, because the negative reality is paralyzing.

Since the completion of my divorce, I've had to work full time and restructure my daughters schedule resulting in less time together, less home cooked meals and face my fears of her growing apart from me while growing up. Fortunately, if anything we have bonded together even more. She's still quite young, but she's a great kid and I'm hopeful for our future and really enjoy watching her grow and mature. While I am somewhat resentful of much that has transpired ( and very exhausted) , I am truly inspired to forge forward and see what the future unfolds.

Not long after my marriage broke up last year I had a long-distance love affair with an old friend. It was lovely and awful. Being with him reassured me that I am a sensual, attractive woman, but I got hooked on my own projections and longings, and felt quite hurt by him. It ended -- and we are still friends... I am grateful. And relieved. And glad to be recounting it here, because there's a new man in my life now and I don't want to make the same mistakes.

So many things have happened. My dad got really sick with a life-threatening illness, which has changed our family completely. It's been difficult watching him get worse at an alarming rate, but it's also a lesson to be appreciative for life and the simple things like being able to walk around or enjoy a good meal. I also moved into a new apartment with my boyfriend and got a promotion to a job I truly have been enjoying, which has been a welcome bit of good news.

I completed an online course that shifted my perspective on life and how to have healthy relationships. I am grateful to the person who designed the course and also the people rhat helped her run it. I think it will help me be a better mensch ;-)

I got pregnant to my husband. We were trying to conceive. I freaked out immediately and cried and cried. I wasn't sure how I felt. Then I started to feel so sick. So sick, I couldn't even get out of bed or be around food. I was living off of popsicles, eggos, and McDonalds. I turned to my doctor for help, and she had none to give. All I could see was my life falling apart: my health, my relationship with my husband, and my business. I terminated the pregnancy. I felt immediate relief. Then sadness. Not regret, but I did question my decision and even wanted to try pregnancy again. Now I feel strange around children and babies. Like I like them, but I'm so glad they're not mine. Like I think I want a child, but I'm not ready. I'm 33. I don't want to wait too long, but when will I feel ready? When will I feel like this is something I want? Will I ever feel like a child of my own is something I want?

I decided to stop letting my parents manipulate me. I've just made the decision, so I'm still very unsure and nervous about it.

Just recently, I was able to do my first unassisted headstand in yoga (with wall support.) Before I actually tried it, I was certain that I would not be able to do it without tons of work, or maybe never be able to do it at all. I was surprised at how few attempts it took until I was successful! This accomplishment has left me with a great sense of pride (Lily says, 'I'm so proud of MYSELF!) and more motivation to achieve even greater things, in yoga and in life.

When I think about a lot of important things have happened: I finally moved to a decent home (I feel relieved), after many years I had a road trip with my parents (I'm thankful for the opportunity to have that in my memory), I've fallen deeper in love with my men (after 7 years of relationship I thought that wouldn't happen, but I'm walking on clouds), I failed a statistics course (that was very self-disappointing and encouraging at the same time), I became friend with a very important slovenian diplomat (I'm mexican and not a diplomat so that's quite unlikely), I haven't been able to quit my job or at least get a raise (that is a terrible feeling, that makes me sad, it weakens me, it's disappointing and makes me feel so powerless and helpless), I had my first treesome (twice) (that feels good), and I think I'm getting closer to my dream fo studying a master's in Hawaii (that makes me feel full of hope and illusions, I and want to -I have to, I need to!- believe that dreams do come true, but it is not so easy).

How can turning 60 this year be called a significant experience. After all, it was something that happened without my doing or experiencing anything. But otoh I have tried to be as intentional as I can be about this because otherwise it becomes a very scary label and milestone. Milestone, hell, it feels like a millstone. But I have chosen often to think of this as an age of coming into wisdom, of being connected to my history, ethnicity, ambitions and aspirations.

My teenage son was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease. Over the last six months I knew in my heart that something was wrong.... that he was unwell. I finally took him to his pediatrician and insisted we do a complete blood work panel done and then we started on that road of discovery. I am sad. Sad for him and what might lie ahead for him. But, he is so brave. He is on a liquid diet now and he is getting healthier, looking better, filling out, sleeping well. He never complains. It amazes me. He inspires me in so many ways. Many people cannot tolerate the diet. NO FOOD only nutritional shakes. How many can handle that for months!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He can. Also after 3 lousy Doctors we finally found a brilliant Harvard educated Dr and she is a jewel of a person. She is so loving and intelligent and supportive. I am so grateful for her. When your child is diagnosed with something that you cannot change you feel a lot of different things. Guilt, anger, bitterness at first. Then, if you are lucky, you start to see the small gifts that it brings. But it's hard. You want everything for your children. For their lives to be flawless. We all know that it doesn't work that way but still................

My sister in law became pregnant and my neice was born. I am childless by circumstance - my husband does not want children enough to pursue any form of infertility treatment. I have cried more tears in this last year, I believe than in any other time in my life. I do not want to keep crying! It is lovely that my neice is here but I feel just heart broken and devastated.

My sister died. Since she never helped me take care of our mom, and made a huge scene at our mom's funeral, I stopped contact with her. She kept sending me harassing emails calling me all sorts of names, and accusing me of some really outrageous things. Because of her actions, I haven't spoken to her in five years. I found out that she died though my sister-in-law when I returned from Israel. I was definitely relieved. While I know that sounds terrible, I couldn't deal with her accusations and outright lies. I guess that this is how it had to be.

Last August (2013) I got a horse, this year we have made so (SO MUCH!!!) progress as a team. This year we had our first successful horse show and event, we have bonded, and gotten to know each other very well. All of these wonderful things that have happened make me so happy and grateful for getting this horse and sticking with him. All of our rides have not be perfect or even close, but these successes have made it all worth it. It even makes me excited for will come!! :)

I started therapy for the first time in my life. I also stopped therapy for the first time in my life. But the point is that, although the therapist could not diagnose me with any treatable problem, she still gave me some valuable perspective before I quit going. I learned a lot about myself and how I am empathetic, but rarely understand emotion because I keep it inside. That's crazy, but not crazy enough for my insurance to cover. I'm glad to have learned this about myself. I have things to work on.

I got married. Overjoyed, life changing event that opened my eyes to a whole new world.

I had some question of cardiac issues which turned out okay. I had lots of concern about the future. Yes, I was grateful and relieved. I truly think it changed my overall perspective about living.

I quit working to pursue what I think is my dream life. I may run out of money. ... I'm terrified and happier than I've ever been. Maybe not terrified, but definitely feeling every breath, every heartbeat, every bit of myself in this big Universe I call home.

I flew to England in early April with the intention of visiting for 6 months. I've made this trip several times before and have always had a great time. This time, however, when I reached customs and security, their computer identified some missing information on my visa application and I was detained for 6 hours (as in lock-up) with some pretty shady characters. In short, I was back home within 24 hours. Disappointed? Yes! But the good news is that several great things have happened in my life since my return, things I wouldn't have experienced had I been in England. Meant to be? Who knows.

visiting my younger son in Barcelona. We often don't get along, but we did very well together. Also, having this same son move home - again, we did much better than expected. Could I have finally grown up? Is he just trying especially hard? Have I learned to communicate better? All good questions.

My husband tried to kill himself. He got help and through this experience God revealed himself to him which has made the healing process a lot more complete. I still don't know how I feel about it.

1. Losing some weight made me feel good and inspired 2. Receiving an email with the subject line "This is not a suicide note" was devastating.

My grandmother, who I've known my entire life, has started to go through the later stages of Dementia. I can't talk to her and I can 't help her in any way. And I don't know how I'm supposed to feel about that.

This year I finally achieved the culmination of my academic career. Not only did I graduate from Law School at the University of Oklahoma but I also took the bar exam in the State of Utah. The bar exam is like nothing you've ever done. It takes not only 3 years of constant stress and competition throughout a graduate program, but also several months of full-time study. Facebook constantly updated me to my classmates study sessions and the sense of dread only built up after graduation. The days finally ticked away and I found myself in the South Towne Expo Center with some 200 or so other students. The test was two days with six hours each day. I was nervous, but not too nervous. The ground was concrete and there was a foreboding presence in the air. The first day consisted of six essays and two performance exams. We were required to upload our exam answers as soon as possible that night but as I tried to do it the system kept failing. This was particular worrisome as failure to upload your answers resulted in an automatic fail on the exam. This was extremely unusual as we used examsoft at the University of Oklahoma and not once did we have any complications with it. As the night wore on my stress grew until I discovered that every jurisdiction that was using examsoft was having the same problems. Eventually, I received an email from the bar examiners late that night explaining that we weren't required to upload our test until the next day. I was able to relax the rest of the night before going at it again. The next day was a lot easier as it just consisted of the 200 multiple choice questions from the MBE. I finished the exam some 2 1/2 hours earlier than required and had to sit through all the dead time with nothing to do. Fast forward a few weeks later, I learned on September 13th that I passed the bar. This was an extremely proud day in my life and I'm so happy to be able to finally practice law as I've wanted to in so long. It was an amazing journey but I'm so glad to be done with the academic portion of my career and now get to embark on the practicing portion.

I entered into the second year of my job, and I had a complete 180 in terms of my circumstances. My supervisor who made inappropriate comments about me to my friends and my face, as well as made unethical work decisions was demoted and resigned. My new supervisor started and it was the ideal situation. However this flip forced me to really evaluate where I am in my life and figure out what I want to do with myself. I still don't know...but I have more of a direction than I did a year ago. I can only hope going into another year in multiple ways, I will continue to find that direction.

Early this year my son's girlfriend left him for another man. I knew he would be devastated when that relationship split up because he had invested so much of himself in it. She was his first love and he had loved her very much. He was plunged into terrible grief and it lasted for months. He'd started at university that year but abandoned his course, unable to concentrate on work. And when things got very bad and he hit an emotional low, he would ring me. I came to dread these phone calls, feeling overly responsible for improving his state of mind. All his friends had been her friends, and now things were awkward with his whole social group. He felt alone and abandoned, as if I were all he had left. This was difficult for both of us, as he had been proud and ready to leave home. He had as little inclination to lean on me as I did to prop him up, but here we were. Over the course of my career, I've worked with a lot of students in his age bracket and for several years I helped just those with emotional and work problems. It's something I know how to do. But my sister-in-law who is a doctor refuses to give the family medical advice. My brother who is gifted with computers charged me for transferring my PhD thesis into book format. Yet my skills are somehow too nebulous to define and there are no boundaries. I had to think long and hard about this over the months of my son's grieving. I love him dearly and I have no hesitation that he is entitled to my love and support at any time of day or night. The resentment and fear I felt came from being too much at the mercy of others in the most general way. I realised beyond a doubt that I never said 'no' enough, not least because refusing to help others in need was not something I felt ethically able to do. My son hit rock bottom in late July, when he rang me to say he felt suicidal. I rushed to be with him, frightened out of my wits. But after that day, he turned a corner. He found work in a pub and hard, physical labour helped him in a way words could not. He gradually began to heal and to leave the relationship behind. It's hard to stop worrying about him, but I do feel that he has been full circle now. He has experienced the worst happening, and suffered for it, and then regained his spirit. He knows he has been through adversity and emerged the other side. I must know it too. I must know he is capable of surviving. And the experience has helped us both to separate, to take that final step away from our old mother-child relationship, which was dangling still from one long drawn-out nerve like a milk tooth. Years ago, I remember responding to a meme that asked what advice I would give to my younger self. At the time I found three immediate answers rose to the surface: People are more resilient than you think. Things matter less than you fear. Get on with your own work. I had forgotten them until this year, but the unexpected truth of them hit me all over again. I will try to move forward bearing them more forcefully in mind.

The most significant event of this past year has been the continuation of our estrangement from our younger (of two) adult son. My understanding of his cut-off of two years, this month, is that he experienced overwhelming trauma in having been sexually abused by a 10 year old female neighbor, when he was 3 years old and also having been molested by his 9 years older male cousin. This trauma must be too much for my son to handle because he has accused me of molesting him for years. I haven't seen my son or heard his voice for two years; he never talked to me about his beliefs about me and he has never responded to any of my many calls, texts, emails or letters. He met with my husband once, 18 months ago, but was intractable in his refusal to see or talk with me and furious that his father and brother don't support him in his accusations. He married last October, but did not include us at his wedding. My emotions vary, day to day, month to month, but always include loss, sorrow and incredulity. As a clinical social worker, I accept that delusions protect us, so I hope that this delusion gives him some peace. I feel guilty that he inherited, from my very mentally ill family, a vulnerability to delusional thought. I feel guilty that I didn't protect him from the neighbor child and his cousin. I grieve and I grieve; my despair is that it seems we may never see him again. I love him and will love him, always. I am grateful that my husband, other son and daughter-in-law support me. I am grateful for the support of my small circle of friends. I am grateful for the years that I had with my son, but also angry that he will not agree to consult with another therapist or to consider the hurt he is causing his parents. But I come back to my belief that he may be doing the best he can, clinging to this delusion as a protection from pain. There's so much I don't know and may never know. I cling to the little I see on the Internet (since he no longer talks to his brother, as well) that he seems to be doing well with his job and his marriage. And I try to allow that little knowledge to help me to live with a positive attitude, for myself, my husband, my daughter-in-law and for both my sons.

Significant experience.......Rich broke Asher's arm in December of 2013. It was horrific for me. It was an accident, but easily could of been avoided. I have had an overwhelming mixed of emotions the last 9 months. I still think of it often. Rich definitely apologized, felt remorseful, made amends, and realized his wrong doing. Asher has forgiven him and I wish it will not haunt him when he gets older. I have forgive Rich and know that nothing like that will ever happen again. But it still breaks my heart to write it down right now.

I experienced my first profound, prolonged bout of depression. I've managed to hold the darkness at bay, for the most part, for 44 years, but this year a combination of financial strains, relationship strife, work-related uncertainty and physical deterioration took its toll. In trying manage it I was forced to take a look at how i interact with my friends, family, co-workers and am in the midst of trying to make some positive changes.

I learned to swim. It was a long-held fear (I'm over 50) and I was determined to overcome it, so I am pretty proud of myself.

My divorce became final. I am grateful for the experiences in my marriage, and grateful to have the opportunity to explore new experiences. I am also inspired to grow as a person, and become the athlete and clear-minded person I once was. I appreciate the opportunity that I have with every day, and am devoted to growing, exploring, experiencing, and living those moments at every turn.

My oldest son got married. I guess how it affected me was that I was jealous. Of his fresh opportunity. Of his ability to feel, to love. Most especially, of his community of friends. I got a lot of affirmation for having raised such a spectacular young man. It was hard to take any credit, and in fact, it wasn't up to me. I did let in SOME of the emotion, but over-focused, as usual, on the superficial--my dress. Who was talking to whom. Did I come across well. I think the family dynamics around the wedding, combined with my younger son moving out, inspired me to get ON it with my life. More specifically, to go to Al Anon this week.

my brother almost passed away made me think allot yes that he surveyed and perhaps he will take his life in a new direction yes I am relieved

This past year was a tough one. But being unemployed, in a city I hated I think gave me the kick I needed to make some change. I'm sitting here right now in my new city excited and eager to embrace the next year and beyond.

In the last year, I have had the experience of really being able to move into my own space, renting my own apartment and taking full responsibility for my schedule, health and connections to loved ones. This has been a wonderfully rewarding experience and I am deeply grateful for all the family and friends who have given me the space and support that I need to have made this experience possible and for those who have gone through the related growing pains with me.

The military moved my family from Colorado to Kansas. Not a huge change in location, but it has been a difficult transition because we all had to say goodbye to a place we called home for the past 7 years, had to say goodbye to friends we had made, and left behind family in Colorado. It has been bittersweet. We miss everything we had there, but it has taught us to be closer as a family and we've made new friends that we would never have met otherwise.

Health issues of the last 9 months, Ed's & mine: breast cancer, broken hip, pneumonia, have brought us all closer together as a family, both his children & mine. Often I'm resentful at the big chunk of time this has taken in our lives & what we missed out on because of these problems, but when I think of how much closer we have all become by going through these events I feel that these are learning steps & I am beginning to see this period in my life as a process of acceptance of our frailties & maybe a signal that we don't have a lot more time to "get it right". I find myself stopping & remembering how grateful I am for all the love & support shown by our families & our friends when we needed them most &, possibly, a little more patient.

In February, my EX-girlfriend, with whom I'd occasionally have sex (I know, but we were both single, etc...), told me she had found "a boyfriend". It had been 10 months since we had officially broken up and I had moved out. I had never mourned the end of our rocky 5 years together. It was never quite right and never quite wrong. But now, after 10 months of relative tranquility and trying to meet people via online dating, I was absolutely floored when faced with the fact that she had met someone. My ego could not fucking take it. And it had nothing to do with the intermittent booty calls. It was bizarre. I was a mess for a week. I let her know. NOT in some kind of plot to reconnect, just trying to feel better. Turns out about 2 weeks later, I would meet my current girlfriend. And 2 weeks after that, my ex told me her "boyfriend" had dumped her shortly after she told me about him. I'm grateful. And relieved.

I found a way to have a relationship with God. In college I fell in love with Judaism but never made any effort to connect to it outside of university. This past year I made that connection - and have enjoyed the community I found, the study I have undertaken, and the continued growth that has changed how I view relationships with God, friends, family, and co-workers.

My son turning into a full fledged human being with feelings, thoughts etc. Made me more aware of how I lead my life - both to prioritize time as well as to set a good example.

My sister got engaged this year, after dating a great guy. I have been jealous the whole time--we were/ are best friends, and we spent a lot of our time together. I have been so challenged to be happy for her, and to love him. I actually cried the night she told me she loved him--not because I was happy, but because I was so sad. I have really been praying for my fear of losing her and losing our special connection to leave, and for me to be able to truly share in her joy. The day she got engaged, I really had to get my prayer muscles working--but slowly, my feelings have transformed, and I've gotten stronger and better at choosing to be centered in love--with her and in a lot of my other relationships as well.

My son and his wife had a third child, a boy. I was very happy to have another grandchild, and happy for my son that the new child was a boy. I worried quite a bit about how the parents were going to deal with this new child financially. I have helped them with finances, maybe more than I should. For instance, I am paying for preschool for their first child, a very gifted little girl who started reading at two and a half years of age. I'm worried that, when the second child is ready for preschool, I will not have the resources for two children in preschool. And then the third. The parents are burdened with a ton of school loan debt which leaves very little expendable income beyond the basics of living. I wish that I hadn't gotten so involved with their finances, but it's a bit late to pull back. I guess I get a little resentful towards the parents for borrowing all that money for graduate school apparently with not much thought about how they would repay their loans. Too late.

I participated in the 2014 USA Special Olympics Games as a Unified Partner on the Brevard County softball team. We represented Team Florida, went 8-0 during competition and won the gold medal. It made me proud to be a part of it and grateful for the opportunity.

Got married to the person I dreamed of marrying for over a decade. Combined ideas of having "the usual" guy, the "bad boy" that I was attracted to and also a loving partner that places me on a peddle stool. To reach form this, was born out of the death of a friend who helped me realign going for what I want out of life and having the courage to jump, pushed me to move, take the risk, to see if my ideas somehow would create a reality. They did, it was, it's happened. I am grateful for my life, relationship, taking risks, being blessed by a friend who lost his life but demonstrated genuine strength and love at the end, he transitioned to a new begining and inspired me to do the same. Thanksful, very thankful to be living this life story and carrying memories

I was cheated on. I'm mostly resentful, fearful about a future with this person, somewhat relieved to have learned something about her sooner rather than later, newly enlightened as to how complicated and messy relationships can be and how hard communication is, and resolved to live a good life whether relationships work out or not.

I got engaged. I am very grateful that i have found someone whom i love and who loves me. It gives me great deal of comfort to know i have someone to conquer the world with, but also has led me to think of what our future holds; kids, jobs, where we are going to live. It makes me want to plan for the future - more than i ever have before.

This year, I experienced heartbreak. I was an emotional disaster, desperately in search of acceptance by another man who met my stringent standards--older, taller, lean, ambitious, witty, comical, and affectionate. The rawness of my desire compelled me me to engage extensively with a man whom I flagged as satisfying all of the above criteria. Yet there was no possible way for me to have made that judgment call, given 100% of our interaction was virtual-- until I flew down to LA for the 4th of July long weekend to interface for the first time. Everything was going swimmingly. Checked into my hotel, met with Edgar, ate a delicious dinner, consumed a decent amount of alcohol, and explored the gay nightlife of West Hollywood. Affection, however, was not a strong suit of his. And the subsequent void I was feeling was enough to drive me away from him in an inexplicably reactive and accusatory fashion. This drove him away from me--understandably so--leaving me blacked out by myself in my hotel room with a phone smashed into millions of fragments on the floor beside the dented wall. The next day, I slowly reflected on my behaviors and accepted the reality for what it was. After a day of solitude at the phone repair shop, beach, and cafe, I proceeded to seek out the company of others, as keeping to myself in the evening would have driven me insane. This led to an engagement that decidedly put me in the shoes of the heartbreaker-- while concurrently heartbroken. His each and every move was characterized by naivete, intimidation, and insecurity--albeit all traits that I'd been prone to displaying as well. However, his actions were deeply hyperbolized, to the point where I could not stomach his near-servile hospitality. And it only then dawned upon me: it's really REALLY hard for two people to be compatible. I'm grateful, above all, that I've largely ceased to self-deprecate upon rejection from others. And that my mindset is still geared toward finding the person who meets my criteria but with the additional cognizance of how difficult it is to find such a man. I feel as though I matured 5 years emotionally in the span of that weekend and the following weeks it took for me to wholly digest the situation. And I'm praying to god that this leap in personal security has set the stage for a relationship that will manifest into something beautiful in the near future.

I set a goal of being everything I could to my friend Leslie as she struggles with illness. While I would never say there was no room for improvement, I feel good about what I have done--spoke to her every day, saw her almost every week; made Shabbat dinners almost every Friday, spent wonderful time together on MDI. As the new year unfolds (pun not intended), I will do more household tasks and listen harder.

My little brother got married. I was amazed at how proud I felt to see him so happy.

The defining experience of this year has to be chairing a professional group's annual conference. It was a volunteer effort, and I spent 20-30 hours a week (or more) on it for the better part of a year (and then some going back another year prior). It took over my whole life and warped my perspectives on everything. To say there were challenges was an extreme understatement. Now 2 months after the actual event, I am still not fully mentally or physically recovered, and such draining things should be reserved for really, truly important things, like if your children have a severe illness or something. I am mostly relieved that it's over (and was a success) but also grateful (since few people have the opportunity, and I did learn a lot and met a lot of great people) and resentful (because I was taken advantage of and because I let myself be taken advantage of). The only inspiration would be to say "no" to more things and to set better priorities.

My girlfriend's father passed away. Steve had been sick for nearly 2 years and had deteriorated in the last few months, which unfortunately was when I met him. He was a kind good man who welcomed me into his home from day one. My girlfriend, her mother and sister were deeply affected, not to mention all his friends, neighbours and the large community of people he had touched over his life. It was touching and heartbreaking to see such a powerful response to his death. My girlfriend is still dealing with it, and I feel helpless at times. There are moments when I only hold her hand or kiss her forehead in comfort, unsure what to say or do. I have learnt that I can only be there for her to an extent. The rest she must face on her own. It has been a hard, and yet hopeful year. There have been many downs and struggles, but followed by strength and the need to move forward. Steve, you will be remembered and missed dearly.

In March of 2014 I kissed one of my best friends. It was the first I've ever kissed a woman, and it has turned my life upside down. As of today, September 24, 2014, it is not in a bad way at all. I have fallen in love with her and her with I. I am feeling a little bit of everything. The last month or so has presented struggles between us and has me questioning what I'm doing, what we're doing. There's a bit of regret for messing up the friendship. There's a bit of fear, knowing that I may lose her in my life for good. There's inspiration, because she does make me a better person, has since we started hanging out. There's a lot of LOVE. I love her in many ways for many reasons. I'm hopeful that we have a long life together ahead of us.

My husband, son, and I moved in with my in-laws to save money for the downpayment on a home. We've never been able to save a downpayment, and it seemed like a hard-but-good decision at the time. We knew there would be challenges and went in with our eyes wide open. Our conversation before the move was long and honest. And much of the time has been good. Our son is only 2, and he's had a wonderful time with all the extra "GranSue" loving. My MIL has had the chance to travel freely without worrying about her dogs or home being unattended. But I could not anticipate the emotional toll this choice would take. Stuff my husband repressed from childhood is popping up. I never, ever feel like I get a second alone, let alone unsupervised. I knew I was an introvert before the move, but I didn't know how good I was at self-regulation before I lost all time to self-regulate. It's been difficult. I look forward to moving to a place to call our own, to being around only our dog (not all the dogs), to never hearing a pet bird squawk again, to spending time with my husband, to having sex without my MIL 30 feet away, to carving out time for my child that is stimulation free, to liking my in-laws again (they are great people when you don't have to live with them), to watching my husband flourish with freedom of being away from family. I am grateful that his family is making a sacrifice to have us in their space (and it is a sacrifice for them), but I'm tired, overwhelmed, and resentful. Just a matter of months. Trying to have some perspective and be grateful every day.

Several of my closest family passed away this year, and so I am very sad and miss them terribly although I know they are in heaven at gods side with my Nana and other family members gone way too long..... I am happy that they are with God but life on this plane just got a little harder.

My husband and I came close to divorce due to his ill-management of his addictions and moods. Rather than losing me, he has chosen to make changes in his life. One of the most significant changes he is making is that, after 37 years of marriage, he is taking an "Introduction to Judaism" 20 session course this year and has committed to attending Shabbat and High Holy Services with me to the extent he is able. I am extremely grateful.

I had a sort of inexplicable experience last Semptember that was sort of like glimpsing into the window of falling in love and then having it shut abruptly. I started falling hard for a guy who was falling hard for me. It felt natural and right but also intense, trying, scary… all of the things love is reported to be. I willed myself to not fall into "this is it, I've found it" and tried to focus on gratitude. "If this is all this is, then I am incredibly grateful for even this…" For the first time in my life I felt this incredible relief like my search was over. It felt right. I felt excited but safe. Then the rug got pulled out from underneath me. He disappeared three weeks in, after a lot of intense correspondence. My heart felt broken. After two months of radio silence, I finally got a reply from him, confessing that he was going through a divorce he had been to ashamed to tell me about. Obviously bad timing. I'm so proud of the grace with which I dealt with this entire thing. I was loving, approving, I didn't shame him or make him wrong, even though sometimes I wanted to. I also learned a ton about letting go and not internalizing other people's issues, assuming I did something wrong. I did nothing wrong, and it was so freeing to admit that. I would be lying if I said he didn't still haunt me… possibilities of what could be/would be… But I'm grateful for that little window into love. It doesn't make the searching and waiting easier but it is comforting in a way. The whole thing was so intense and eerie I feel like it's still doing it's work on me. I think about him a lot (not as much as I used to) and I wonder if he's thinking of me.

I was diagnosed with a rare and genetic form of muscular dystrophy. For my entire adult life, I've been aware that I had a 50% chance of developing this disease, and while it's not life threatening, it's life complicating. Still, it feels a bit like a gut punch. For my entire adult life, I've prayed that if I had the disease, that its onset would be delayed until an effective medical treatment was developed. Such a treatment is now in clinical trials, so I'm grateful for that, and even more, grateful for medical insurance that allows me to see top specialists. I'm also grateful that I live in a city that actually has specialists with knowledge of this very rare disease. But that doesn't mean I don't have anger.

I have met a woman who I am now engaged to. I am very grateful to have found someone to love and who loves me. There sre always issues but I am very glad to have had this opportunity again.

In the past year, it's mostly significant that I maintained the status quo. This was a change for me, and not something that I'm entirely comfortable with. I prefer to always keep growing and moving, and it feels wrong to have stayed in the same place. I am living in the same apartment, working at the same job, and dating the same person I was dating last year at this time. I feel concerned about this, because I worry that I'm not moving forward at the pace that I expect of myself and that others expect of me. I also wonder if this means I have reached my limitations. I consider giving up but not for long. I hope to longer be in this place next year.

Nine months ago, I fell in love with a wonderful, grounded, gentle man. He slows me down and keeps me in touch with the things that are important to me in my life. He loves me completely for who I am now, mature, formed, and with opinions, quirks, preferences. I am grateful and hopeful about the rest of my life with him.

I met Steve, now my husband. I am very, very happy. I never thought I would want to be with, let alone live with anothewr person. He has changed my mind and my life.

About 11 months ago, I started my first real relationship, one which lasted about 6 months. I lost my virginity, aged 19, and experienced what it was like to create an incredibly close bond with another person. It had its ups and downs - towards the end it had its downs and downs, notably the last night of the spring term, when we ended up having a drunken meltdown/fight in the middle of the street, and I cried more than I have ever cried before or since. But it also had its special moments - lazy days in bed, and trips to Bath where we went exploring. I like to think that I've come out of the relationship stronger, and with a better understanding of myself and my character. It was difficult, but I don't regret it at all. I hope he feels the same.

Had 3 cardiac Stents "installed". It was a surprise. I felt sick, had a tiny amount of chest pain, but was about to have a heart attack. I am grateful it was caught in time, I amd happy I have all kinds of newfound energy, and it is a transformational event for me as I am now a vegitarian and am going to focus on health more.

Unfortunately, I had a pretty negative significant experience that happened to me this past year. This past year was supposed to be new and exciting - first year of marriage! Settling in and settling down. Enjoying my last year pre-kids. We were supposed to start trying for children at this point. But on Thursday, November 7th, my world was rocked. Everything I thought I knew about my love, my partner, my best friend was taken from me. To find out the person you'd been with for 5 years, lived with for 2.5 years was not the person they'd presented themselves to be... That they'd been afflicted with an addiction they thought they could control, but couldn't... This experience has made me feel everything. I feel angry, sad, distrustful, numb, confused... But through all of this, I have tried hard to make positive changes in things I could control. I've tried to be positive when I can and I hope this effort will help me make positive strides in the future.

For the first time in my life, I fell and broke my collar bone. I was extremely dependent upon others and realized how vulnerable and fortunate I was not to have injured myself even more severely. I always felt I was invincible and was never curtailed from doing exercise, lifting, housework, etc. It was a very humbling experience. I was bit resentful when it first happened because I was on a ski trip and after the very first day, I sat in the condo and felt sorry for myself. Of course, when putting life into perspective, I realized it was small potatoes and I got over that pretty quickly. My vanity was affected because I had worked out so hard to be in shape and now I was unable to exercise for at least 10 weeks. The mountain medical clinic was amazing as my orthopaedic surgeon - lucky I did not need surgery on to wear a sling. My brother moved in with me to help me do what I could not. That saved me. He took care of my two pugs and cleaned the house. I felt blessed.

Losing my great. Uncle Sam this past year was tough. It made me feel sad that he was gone, that my boys would never really get to know him, and it also made me regret not having spent more time with him, but also grateful that my work had brought me to DC a number of times over the past few years, and that I had taken the time out of those trips to go visit with him and Aunt Sarah. His life was a complicated one, but I think he truly lived it on his terms. So maybe it wasn't successful by a lot of people's metrics, but it was successful by his, and that's all that really counts.

My husband's mother died in July of natural causes but after a decline of several years. Visiting her in her nursing home was hard on both of us and, to a certain extent, we are relieved she is no longer alive. Still, a small part of me regrets we never invited her to live with us. It's a very small part since she just didn't love my husband enough and did love his schmuck of a brother too much for me to regret our actions too much. I'm not proud of feeling this way and, anyway, its too late. But her death was significant and this is how I feel.

I had my second major surgery on May 29, 2014. It has made me grateful to be alive and relieved that I am done with having surgery. But also i wonder if i will ever *not* have a dull constant pain and if my belly will ever not look like frankenstein. I am grateful and sad all at the same time

We paid off my credit cards and some high interest loans from college—$76,000 in a little over a year! I thought it would be an immediate relief. It wasn't, exactly, but it was having a profound negative effect on me before, so I'm grateful to wake up without a sense of dread that we were on the brink of insolvency. We still don't have a house. And we're having a baby (!!!), which I'm sure will be next year's significant thing. It's to early for it to really have hit home, yet. But we have a lot less debt, and it's an immense weight off my shoulders. I feel we're much more prepared for this next chapter of our lives together because of it.

My daughter gave a baby up for adoption. I am grateful for her maturity, but will never stop feeling that we should have adopted him ourselves instead of letting him leave our family.

I found out I had a heart problem. Medications seem to be helping at the moment. I'm grateful that I found out about it before it became a problem, but I am resentful it happened to me.

On the brink of divorce, getting back into couples therapy was a significant event this past year. It has helped our relationship and communication tremendously. I am grateful we're in a better place now. I'm relieved things are easier but also cautious because I don't feel my husband is as committed to the marriage as I am. For that, I am somewhat resentful but I also see that he is working hard and giving up much. I hope my efforts match his.

My sister stopped all communication with me. I am so saddened by this loss. I had cataract surgery in one eye. For the first time in years, I can use binoculars without double vision. I had all but stopped bird-watching because of the frustration. Grateful

Just one? ...it is an ongoing experience, but if I have to choose one significant experience it's the red pill. I was in a place where I was considering going back on anti-depressants even though I have not had the greatest results from them; I was concerned I would endanger my job if I didn't have something to help me make it through the day with enough energy to both go to work and interact with people, since interaction is key to my job. I was also really reluctant to go on neuropharmaceuticals of this sort, nootropics, but I knew I needed something and I figured that it couldn't be worse than anti-depressants. That was roughly a year ago and in that time I've tried a number of combinations of supplements and managed energy-boosting, social interaction boosting, I like myself better, I joke more, I don't isolate as much with coworkers, I got a promotion at work... And rather than lose myself, which was my concern, I feel like it has just made me a better me. It improved my strengths and leveled out my weaknesses. I don't know that there is such a thing as a cure for depression, but now I am no longer convinced there isn't one. I have hope.

I sang at Don't Tell Mama. I was grateful, but disappointed in myself for not pursuing my music more. I feel like a failure because that one event was all I did…other than sing at the Synagogue which I whole-heartedly enjoy.

I had to transfer my son from the public school system to a therapeutic day school. He needed more than the public school could provide, as he has autism and is nonverbal. I was unsure how he would transition, but the school he goes to now is wonderful and understands him. The unknown caused some fear, but I am so glad I made this change for my son.

My husband has been so ill. It is as if he took a family's entire illnesses and is doing them all for us. CLL leukemia....COPD...pneumonia...congestive heart failure...wet macular degeneration resulting in legal blindness....at least three spontaneous back vertebrae fractures resulting in severe pain. My admiration for him knows no bounds. Yes, he gets angry and cranky with caregivers who cause him pain. But his mind is clear as it can be considering all his physical pain and weakness. He can still make friends with the OT who has just gotten a dog...with the CNA with the Portuguese background...

My parents (Dad turned 84 in April, 2014 and mom turned 79 in July, 2014) both had severe illnesses and I feared for their life. Dad’s gall bladder became extremely infected and he became septic and was in the hospital for I think a month and took awhile to recover. Then, Mom had been having dizzy spells and passed out one day and the fall broke her hip. She was very sick for quite awhile and was sad because she had to give up some of her favorite passtimes: exercise and knitting. Fortunately, they have both recovered. I was very very grateful that they recovered and relieved. However, I was sad that I could not be closer to them because I live in Texas and they in Colorado. Fortunately, my sister lives next door so this offered me some comfort. I still worry about them because they are getting older and also I am getting older and often wonder what it will be like for me.

I changed jobs (involuntarily at first). I am now very very happy with this. I see it as God doing something for me that i could not do for myself. Even though this morning an incident did make me resentful, this helps me to remember that its only one moment and there are so many good ones.

I changed jobs and in so doing moved to someplace different. It's been very stressful. My new job is very challenging and is exposing me to a whole new experience which is good most of the time. I'm used to bring my own boss and now have the owner of the company breathing down my neck which is taking some getting used to. The move has entailed buying a house and major renovations. I'm not sure what effect moving is going to have on rascal, beme, flame, oj and my husband. It's all very much in flux but I'm optimistic

I got a new job as a librarian. I was relieved to finally have a full time job after 10 years (of graduate school and part time work). I was grateful to get such a wonderful job. I was nervous to deliver story times to children after having only worked with older teens and young adults. And I felt great to know that I could get the job I wanted in the system I wanted to work for.

I stopped everything and reflected on my life. I noticed that I had missed a significant part of it, even though I was present physically i often wasn't there mentally. It was a sad and striking realization

This past year my mother made steps to enter into an assisted living facility. My mother has always been very independent and active even at 84. Until fairly recently she was still going to the gym on a daily basis. But her health has made that difficulty and the city she lives in lacks any adequate public transit, so she has been fairly isolated. I have struggled with sadness and anxiety over the situation, I don't live in the same city as my mother. So making arrangements and finding information has been difficult. The situation has also made me realize how much I miss my mother and it has renewed and deepened my sense of tenderness towards her. I love my mother and I am grateful she is still with me.

My husbands ex wife decided one year ago to move 700 miles away and leave us with sole custody and all financial and emotional responsibility of their 16 year old son. My husband and I are somewhat newlyweds still, as when this happened, we had only been married for 9 months. I find myself with so much hatred and resentment towards her, as she seems to feel no responsibility to still being a mother in any sense of the word. I know that she probably wishes she hadn't had to move away- apparently she did because of financial reasons and had family to go live with, but doesn't have any appreciation for he fact that she no longer is responsible for her own child. I am struggling immensely with how to let go of my anger towards her.

The birth of my baby girl. Grateful, relieved, excited, scared, happy.

We both retired. I love the time with Mike and feel very blessed. But I'm not always being as kind to him as I might be. So i guess I'm struggling more than I admit. Deborah is pregnant again. Sarah is staying at South Bay, and challenges me to be supportive and to trust her judgment. Which I do, but I don't always communicate that. Dan is happy.

My boyfriend broke my heart into two pieces. I realized I don't have the same outlook on love and relationships anymore. I'm resentful that I have the tendency hold on to dead things in hope that they'll come alive again.

In the past year I've started running, completed a 5K race, am currently training for a 10K race, and have lost over 20 pounds. I feel good, physically and emotionally, and confident that I'll be able to keep the weight off and continue engaging in activities that will help me to be strong and healthy. I've started taking pilates classes and just restarted a 5:2 regiment I hope will lead to further weight loss - I'd like to make 5:2 or 6:1 a permanent part of my routine. I've noticed that my focus on weight loss and fitness has made it more difficult for me to concentrate on work and home responsibilities. Hopefully I'll be able to bring more balance into the picture as I feel more confident in my ability to live a healthy lifestyle a matter of course, and not something I have to work so hard to stick with.

My first thought was promotion to 2nd degree black belt (at age 62!). Definitely relieved it's over. But I want to say I went to the wedding of a high-school friend's daughter. We weren't in the same crowd, almost weren't friends--rivals, if anything—but have gotten to know each other since. Her older cheerleader friends were also there. Part of me was excited to be with the coolest girls, all these years later. Embarrassed but gratified that I liked it when one of them said I could have been a cheerleader. It was like achieving popularity at last. Partly appreciating that they were popular because they were nice, funny, smart & lovely, & are even more so now. Partly relieved & inspired that we have all made it this far, that high school is both behind us & still with us, & both are not just OK but thrilling.

Found out I was pregnant. Anxious and Nervous about jobs and security.

My children and I volunteered for one week at Lighthouse Family Retreat to serve families that had a child or in one case children living with cancer in a vacation setting. It was a blessing to see my children serve and truly, it was the highlight of our summer to be together at the beach but with a purpose. Each one of us felt thankful for our own health and inspired by the love and beauty shared by the siblings and parents living through this experience. I feel changed knowing that time out of the normal routine can create a memory to keep for a lifetime. The children who were in treatment had the most pure, joyful and loving spirits. No one could experience getting to know them without being forever changed knowing that God uses even cancer to highlight what is important.

This has been an incredible travel year! Between February and July I hit all four corners of the country: Key West, coast of Connecticut, San Diego and the San Juan Islands off Washington. Additionally, I was in Tampa more than once, CT more than once, Seattle, Atlanta, Veedauwoo in WY, and several locations around Colorado, including Estes Park, Evergreen, Granby, Echo Lake, Turquoise Lake. It makes me grateful and makes my life interesting, rich and full.

while I can think of many the one keeps coming to me was an unintentional affirmation of the decisions I made may not have been so bad, and that I am very likely were I am supposed to be. And it came in the form of a friendship that started with a thought and affirmed by a simple five sentence long email.

My daughter graduated, got a job in NYC and moved home to save some money before going out on her own. I think the adjective to use would be happy, or maybe satisfied. I love having her around and always expected her to succeed.

I turned 60. It is hard to believe I have lived that many years and has left me reflective for sure. At times that reflection has made feel that I have not accomplished much - that many things I had assumed I would do or become have not happened. The biggest surprise has been how unsettled and afloat I still feel - feelings I felt strongly when young that have never left me. I always thought that at some point I would feel "settled". That I would feel comfortable ini my own skin, comfortable, secure and satisfied with my wife and family and work. When I was young it seemed reasonable that such feelings should be in the future - after high school or college, or marriage or embarking on a career or .... But now I am 60 and I still feel remarkably unsettled quite often. But now it seems too late to find a new career, my children are grown and gone, I'm passed hoping that some things about my wife will change and I find that I've been unable to alter many of my weaknesses either. Above all I'm not too sure why I feel this "unsettled ness" as I've been by most measures successful. So that's been my biggest surprise over the 60 years - that this restlessness I inside or unsettled ness has never gone away. Maybe it's because the milestone of 60 has caused me to reflect but I've noticed some changes. When I ride my bike I still feel strong and fit but I find it soo very hard to be motivated to go faster, harder. I go up hills slower and while a part of e wishes I would go faster a larger part is satisfied with just going. I was at a sales meeting this spring and was being shown some of the next generation projects that were being worked on. I was excited to see some of the improvements I and asked when I could realistically have them to sell. The answer was maybe 6-8 years and in a flash I realized I'd be 68! Was it likely I'd be still selling at that age? I think not and while for years I always assumed that by my mid 50's and on I'd have some managerial/leadership role, now I can't imagine any other role I'll have but my current territory job until I retire. But, I've been good at and am still year after year the top one two or three highest performer in the west and consistently in the top quartile or better in the company. Without having had a down year in a long, long time. I am proud of that. But, here again, like when I'm riding I find myself less inclined to try to do more. Some days I think the 2 more years to my 30th anniversary will be a snap, other days I wonder if I will make it another year. Over the past year or so I'm now frequently asked by others when I'll retire. It's a question that stumps me. The day I resign it will be so final - there's no doing my job part time or cutting back. The decision will be final. Still, I find it impossible to organize I myself enough to seriously come up with a plan for retirement. I can't manage a productive ongoing conversation about what might be with Carolyn, or with myself for that matter. It's too easy to get off track or find interruptions to really figure it out. Why is that? I assume it's fear of the unknown. Fear of change. The easiest current excuse is to think I've got to maintain the status quo at least as long as mom's alive, because while she is I feel an obligation to stay in Portland and be close to her. But, I do think about more often and may even be working ever so slowly towards addressing the question. I'm making a more concerted effort at learning to play guitar and am taking lessons and practicing seriously for an hour or more most ever day. Progress feels glacially slow and I am often discouraged and wonder if I will ever get to the point where I can play in front of people And be able to gift them a bit of my - how can I put this?- my soul, my self, my core, my love as music can convey. And I find myself reflecting more often on how fortunate and blessed I am and have been. I fantasize sometimes of doing nothing for a year but taking care of and improving our lot and home. I think of writing my history or better yet a story. Of going through all our stuff and throwing most of it away. Of riding my bike again across the country. Of volunteering in national parks and living in a trailer or hiking from and to somewhere. So far mostly idle thoughts, but who knows if or what of those idle thoughts I'll be able to put into motion? Finally, I reflect a lot about my faith. I believe that such faith as I have is rooted in a desire to discover that love Unfeigned that Christ seemed to talk of. That love that seems to be at the core and point of our being. Will I ever be able to find it, acknowledge it as it has been given to me? Incorporate it truly in how I live and interact with others? Will I be able to find that our religious traditions and practices are a method for achieving that or will they prove to be stumbling blocks for me that force me to re examine - maybe even cause me to reinvent how I practice and worship? So, to summarize. I turned 60. For me a significant experience this year. Am I grateful, relieved, resentful, inspired? May oui!

I ended a two and a half year relationship with a woman I thought I was going to marry. I mean, I ended it, but she said and did the things that made it impossible to continue. I can't really explain how it impacted me in the moment, but I definitely feel like it was a change for the best. I'm in a better place mentally, financially, socially, and professionally. As bad as it sounds, I was in love with someone who was dragging me down, in every way. I haven't really dated since. Unsure when I will again. And as much as I'm mildly freaked out about being newly single and in my 30s, I'm much happier knowing that the next few decades of my life won't be spent with the wrong person.

I attended the Affirmation Retreat in Nauvoo. This was the first time I really got out of my shell and met a significant number of other LGBT Mormons and our friends and allies. It was nice to really drive home to me that I am not alone in this. I felt hope and a lot of anxiety. I'm not a huge fan of going somewhere where I don't know anyone. But I came out of it with new friends, which was a definite plus.

Graduating, again. This time it was really different. I didn't participate in Commencement. I didn't have the stress of having my family in one place, but I also didn't really get a chance to celebrate it. I moved to Westlake two weeks after finishing school, and while I am so happy to have a job, not giving myself any real transition time between the stress of grad school and Comps, omg, the pain of Comps, has been hard. Meeting Zach has been pretty damn significant too. I wasn't expecting him. I don't think I really understood how important having someone is. It's been enlightening for sure, but also incredibly terrifying. I'm getting accustomed to having him around, and being around him and feeling content. And that could be gone if he decides that I'm not worth it. I decided to treat finally. In theory, I'll start sometime in November or December and hopefully be cured by March. The idea of doing that is terrifying. So much of my life is determined by the fact that I have this disease. Could I not be tired all the time? I can't even imagine that. I wanna know who I am without this thing hanging over my head.

Dad has his stroke in May of this year. It's made me see my parents as fallible and real. My mom has had so many breaking points, but she manages to keep going, always moving forward. Dad's strength is amazing, but he's so tired. When he says he wishes he had died, it's hard to realize that he was really depressed before. Both of their struggles are really hard to watch. And I hate being so far away. The week at home with them was wonderful but tough. Sometimes it seems as if everything is being done for the other. In an O'Henry kind of way, almost. They really are a team with a lot of love between them. Sometimes it was hard to see that, growing up, but now I think their relationship is a lot more complicated, sure, but also deeper. I guess I'm grateful overall for this experience. Of course I wish that I could have seen this and that this could have happened for them without Dad being in hospital all that time, but that's not what happened. I feel so much closer to them, and I like calling and talking to them every day instead of just once a week. It helps me feel like I am at home a little bit.

Our daughter came out to us regarding her sexuality this year. It definitely affected our whole family in many different ways as neither side of the family has experienced having a name and a heart connected with homosexuality. I'm incredibly grateful for the time/place in which we live that allows her to be exactly who she is, and also allows us to celebrate that with her. There is no hiding, no shame. We love her so much, and this has added dimension to our lives in so many ways. I have personally learned a great deal in the past months as a result of her coming out, most notably that everyone has to react to things in their own ways. We can't tell anyone how to feel about something, all we can do is love. And at the end of the day, our daughter is so loved.

We moved from Oregon to Georgia. I was scared and sad. I didn't want to leave and as time went on, our decision seemed more and more idiotic. I wished many times that we could take it back. I woke up homing it was a dream. One night, I dreamed we were in Oregon in a semi-lucid dream. I remember feeling relieved, feeling that everything would be better now. When I awoke, I had the most desolate and defeated feeling, and I wasn't sure if I'd ever recover from the disappointment.

Last November I had a significant heart attack and had to have open heart surgery that lasted nearly 10 hours. I was so grateful to still be alive that I set goals for achievement for the first time in many years. I met or exceeded all of them! My life is full and joyful, and I am appreciating every day in a way I haven't felt since my 20s. Life is good.

significant experience: one year ago, I starting working on Swipes full time- as a paid staff person. It made me confident. it made me committed to something greater than me. I got to create. Although it was an prolonged experience, rather than a one-off one. It feels like a new thing every day. Significant experience was also realizing how powerful I am at the age of 22. Peoples expectations of me. I've revistied how i view and practice friendship which may have been one of the biggest changes. It is now something meaningful, not meant to be carried on the same way as it should have been when it started. It is 100% allowed to grow and change, no attachment.

I became president of my synagogue in July. I am still adjusting to the change. Some people are treating me differently now, and I don't like that. In particular, there is a strange power thing going on between me and one other person that was never there before. On the other hand, it is giving me a chance to get to know our senior rabbi better, and, so far, that has been a good thing. Also, some people have said some very nice things to me about how glad they are that I'm president and how well they think I'm doing. I am very grateful for that.

That's a tough one this year. I'm surprisingly devoid of significance. I enjoyed the Paris ride with the Debden dynamos (inspiring), I enjoyed Dunbar's wedding (and Rhodesy's) had some great holidays - Thailand, Florida, Austria Ski, Italy Ski, Italy hot... I also had a jolly lovely birthday. I saw lots of people that I care about and had some great fun. I definitely felt grateful.

My wife and I decided to take on the remodeling of a house we own and had lived in but now are selling. We worked 'before work' and 'after work', meaning my day job. We tackled a million small projects that popped up one after the other seemingly without end. We slept on the floor and had 5 minute meals and then, 'back to work!'. All this resulted in putting our bodies in very good shape. Our appetites sharpened and our stamina increased. We spent a lot of time together working towards a common goal. The 4 month-long project allowed us time for reflection while doing laborious tasks. This turned out to be something especially enjoyable to my wife who constantly tending to the needs of her mother and others. The job took us away from consumerism and the hustle-bustle of the world at large and left us in a small paradigm of living for the moment and enjoying being useful and busy. Yes, a very small and rather introverted thing to do (not helping others and keeping to ourselves in a project that would be bettering ourselves) but still, worth while and overall a good-karma project. I hope we create or stumble into the opportunity to do this more in the future.

Publishing a book. It received positive reviews and the first edition sold out in a month or so. It was exciting, I dreamed about the moment for a long time, but I actually did not feel as happy as I should have. Maybe it was the stress of all the publicity and the launch event (that actually is being organised tomorrow. Maybe happiness and fulfilment will take over gradually. Let's wait and see.....

I went to a mass at a local high school on a Friday, my day off of work, that touched me spiritually in a way that was very much needed in my life at the time. I am very grateful that I had the experience. It inspired me to attend mass at my old parish that next weekend, and also inspired beautiful conversations with my son, my cousin-in-law, my aunt, and my co-worker and good friend.

I moved out of my apartment where I'd been for 3 years, then lived in another apartment with a terrible roommate, then moved into another apartment that I like much better--all in the course of . The churn and moving has been pretty mentally stressful, especially for the 10 months where I was living in a place I hated.

My father passed away about three weeks ago. How did it affect me? I will let you know in time. But for the meantime, it feels like my heart has been ripped open exposing a level of grief, and connection to spirit(and myself) and a despair about life (mid-life) I never imagined existed.

In the past year I very slowly - yet somehow all at once - fell in love with my best friend. It started last fall when our relationship started to grow and strengthen, then this spring we both realized that things were starting to change. Finally at the beginning of this summer we went on our first actual date and I am entirely certain my life will never be the same. She's already seen me at my worst when I think I'm broken and unloveable, and she somehow loves me regardless. I've also seen her at her low points and love her exactly as she is. I can so clearly see and understand now why my previous relationships never worked - that I was always contorting myself to try to fit with someone that wasn't the right person. I feel so blessed that I have now found my soulmate - and like the love cliches tend to say, it was only when I stopped looking that the person of my dreams turned out to be right there in front of me.

This past year I had to have a breast biopsy done the same week that my husband had to have biopsies done to determine prostrate cancer. Mine came back negative. His came back positive. I am grateful that mine was negative, and grateful that his type is manageable. I am grateful we have health care and the finances to pay for the biopsies and future care that is needed.

One of the most profound experiences of my life was to stand shoulder to shoulder with tens of thousands of my fellow Jews from all over world, gathered beneath the glaring afternoon sun to mourn the senseless loss of our holy brethren. The crowd was laden with sorrow and yet I have never in my life experienced such a unanimous outpouring of unconditional love.You could feel the intensity of it in the air as over 50 thousand Jewish souls vibrated on the same frequency, together kindling an immortal light.On that day this force of love was felt by Jews in every corner of the earth and shook the very foundations of heaven. As we waited for the funeral to begin the crowd shifted between deafening silence, and solemn song, invoking ancient words of sorrow and of hope. It is moments like this that fortify me with strength and hope, that during the darkest of times we can come together, a nation “divided” by petty politics, as one family to mourn our loss and look together towards building a better future. I will remember that sad day for the rest of my life. Baseless hatred tore us apart two thousand years ago, and unbridled love is bringing us back together once more. ברוך דיין האמת יעקב נפתלי בן רחל דבורה, גילעד מיכאל בן בת גלים, אייל בן איריס תשורה זכר קדוש לברכה Blessed is the true Judge: Eyal Gilad and Naftali May their memory a blessing. Read more: To Heal One Broken Heart | Joshua Jacob Shore | The Blogs | The Times of Israel http://blogs.timesofisrael.com/one-broken-heart/#ixzz3EFgJl5ZD Follow us: @timesofisrael on Twitter | timesofisrael on Facebook

A year ago, we were talking about marriage. In January we called it quits. I was devastated. It has taken me the months since, 8 months, to come to grips with it. It wasn't a straight line either, it was up and down and around and around for a while. It turned out to be just what I needed (thank you God, You're always looking out for me even when it seems awful) My relationship with God has flourished and I'm praying the same for him, even if I never see him again. I've officially started my own business. Haven't taken a dime in income yet, but I'm on my way. Still have a lot of things to learn.

A significant experience that happened to me this year was being a CMA at Thomfest. At the end of the year, my CMs gave me a $50 giftcard to Cosi, a personalized hat, flowers, and a few cards. In general, I felt so in my element this summer. I was thoughtful about how to set things up well for the CMs and myself this summer with their teams and challenges, I was intentional about building up collab partnerships and community as a whole group. I was effective leading PDs about specific parts of the lesson structure, because TFA and Mastery 2.0 were so closely aligned. I am so grateful for that experience. It reminded me that I can be good at things, that I can be happy at work, that I can work hard and also take care of myself, even in stressful situations. After two tough years of teaching I needed that reminder. I like working hard. I like being helpful. I can be good at things! I can be useful! I have talents!

Becoming self employed has been very liberating there has been some stress, but overall the flexibility especially over my time and not feeling like I am under anyones thumb has been very empowering.

I reconnected with an old friend. I had previously held a grudge against this friend for not growing in the same ways as me during college. Now we have found our ways to the same path. I was really grateful to see her again and am inspired by her motivation. She helped me to realize that my dreams are achievable and I believe that we will continue to motivate each other towards greatness.

Got pregnant. Growing a baby. I didn't think it would be so easy. This feels like a good thing, but I don't want to take it for granted. It is definitely a good thing for our family, it's already brought us closer together and given us something to look forward to. My son, in particular, is so excited to be a big brother at long last. He will turn 6 in a week, and the baby is due two weeks later.

The birth of my daughter. I am grateful, amazed, in unconditional love, inspired and at first, overwhelmed. Adding her to my life softened the jaded and disgruntled parts of my soul. In a way, it was like a "new me" was born right along with her.

This past year I moved to San Francisco and I feel so incredibly grateful. The city is expensive and crowded but so beautiful. Even when I'm sitting in traffic driving home from work in the Peninsula, I love watching the sunset in the fog that rests on the rooftops of the Excelsior. It's truly magical.

I sold my home of 12 years and relocated to a new town and a full time new relationship. I am still commuting to my job (75 miles). I have less time for myself and less time for yoga. I am grateful for so many things; my child, my health, my family, my job. Resentful? Absolutely not. Inspired? Daily. Jimmy. Rebecca's incredible heart space and intuition. My mothers exciting spirit.

I finished a Half Iron man race. I always knew how to swim but I wasn't very good. Watching videos and practicing a LOT, I learned to be a good swimmer and I did it. It was awful and scary and profoundly inspiring. I inspired myself. I feel grateful for my courage and physical ability. I feel so grateful for the support of my partner and friends who came to cheer me on. I feel inspired because I now know that wherever I think my limits are - I'm wrong. I can do more.

My first grandchild was born. This gives me great joy and pride. My daughter and son-in-law plan to raise her in a Jewish household. On her first birthday they conducted a naming ceremony giving Maya her Hebrew names. This event gave me such a warm feeling because our children are continuing our Jewish tradition so the tribe will survive and flourish. My wife, son and I will be moving to Portland, OR in the near future so our family will be together in one city to share our lives and support each other. I am fortunate to have a loving relationship with my wife and my children are my best friends.

One of the most significant experiences was a move into my own apartment on September 1, 2013. In my entire life, I have never lived completely on my own. I have made a small place into a sweet home, but this is not the dream I've had for my life. At moments, I am completely grateful and many other moments, I feel sad or disappointed. What this home is not, is a place for my family to gather or my grandchildren to spend extended amounts of time or overnight with me. I do sometimes resent the laundry room situation and am sometimes really challenged by the noisy upstairs neighbor. These are things I would rather not be dealing with. As always, I am challenged by life's unfolding and always looking for the meaning in it all.

A significant event happened to our family upon the graduation of our daughter from Ohio University from the Scripp School of Journalism. We did it...all together. This was a tough journey as we owned our business and it closed in January before her graduation in June. When she started our business was struggling and somehow we kept going and she kept pursuing her dreams and she graduated with glowing honors and enthusiasm. I have deep faith and trust so much in the holy spirit and it was that which we leaned on, prayed and still today we hold our faith sacred. As a family going through the trials and joys of these journeys we became even closer and stronger. Life is precious and we must, we must live each day as though we had won the lottery and not live by the words; if I win then I can....but I am living and I can. Miracles are all around as is love.

I got a promotion and moved into my own apartment. It is amazing how much I feel like my own person because of these changes. I feel self sufficient, and independent in ways that I didn't even know were missing from my life. There are certainly some ups and downs, and thinking about making ends meet from month to month is certainly a concern and sometimes a struggle, but overall it is the most worth it experience I could have ever imagined.

In anger I confronted my adult children about their treatment of me--abusive, manipulative, rude, making fun of me, ignoring me. They all told me that I did something wrong (before I sent the same letter to each of them) but will not tell me what I did. My son still believes I was abusive to him--the police said no--I was not. I changed the pattern of abuse in my family which was not easy. I just do not want to not be their doormat anymore. This still weighs heavily on my heart. My sister got involved and I told her to butt out--and she didn't now the situation is worse. I was relieved after I sent the letters. Perhaps I should not have--but I felt the need to clear the air so we could have a better relationship. I made a mistake and my family is not forgiving--I am dead to them--

Zach started Middle School. I am relieved he negotiate it--difficulties and challenges--and emerged a more confident human being.

Decided to end my unhealthy marriage. I feel all of the above: grateful, relieved, resentful, inspired?

Spending my 65th birthday with family and friends was so special to me. I feel unbelievably lucky to have my health and so much love surrounding me.

I got married this past year and am so grateful. It is my second marriage, and my finance' has faced significant health challenges. At one point, he was told he only had 9 - 12 months to live (he has since far surpassed that). Our wedding day was a celebration of us and the many things we have overcome as a couple.

Moved home to England from America after 3 years away and the birth of our son. It was a tough decision to make but we have been very happy to be home near close friends and family again. We had a great time in Colorado but never felt like home. this summer we went to Will, Fran, Martin, Carl and Kevs wedding. Stayed with the in-laws for 4 months which was surprisingly easy. Work is a little wierd as working US hours and remotely is tough but doable. Lots of time on the phone to make it work. Turned down a big promotion to come home but so far it has definately been the right decision. Enjoying the sailing lessons and spending my days in Nest space. Worries are about the future of working remotely and what I can achieve with the UK operation. The next 6 to 9 months will give the answer.

Trying to reconnect with my father. He is old ~ i am old! We are both getting old. He remains more concerned with making his mark...still, at 74. Does he not 'get' his family is perhaps his best, lasting legacy? I'm so confused with how to 'honor' him, when he barely acknowledges the existence of us....remains aloof, self-possessed, disinterested.

Wow- it has been a REALLY big year for me. I've taken the MCAT, gotten into medical school, carried a real job for the first time in years (The Princeton Review) and moved to Middletown. I've gotten a new car, a Prius, which I am totally happy with. I've rededicated myself to working out and am on point with my nutrition. I moved from body-builiding to a crossfit program just two days ago! These are all pretty positive. The MCAT worked out really well for me- I just rocked it, you know? However, my applications to medical schools did not. With my unusual resume of having a JD I thought I would be much more qualified than many of my co-applicants, and I was. What I didn't expect was that the level of scrutiny leveled at me during the interviews was consequently much higher. I still remember my interview at northern California, where one of the interviewers asked questions in such a way that it was clear he had made up his mind before ever talking to me; I mentioned this to my fellow applicants when we left, how the interview had been SO rough. My fellow applicants confirmed, in their words, that the interviewer was "trying to beat me down," but that I had responded well. Touro Vallejo had been my first choice, but when I was waitlisted there, and the accepted in New York, I was very grateful. I put my head down, prayed to God and cried, thanking him for all the blessings in my life. I was also tremendously relieved. I'd spent years trying to get into school. This was my only career path; I didn't have a plan B. With so many refusals rolling in from the schools despite my high MCAT, I was feeling so stressed that I hadn't even realized it. As I prayed thanking God, and the tears of joy and relief rolled down my face, I felt a great tension unwind from the center of my being, as if a coiled and arthritic spring was slowly coming to rest after years of being under tension. You see, it wasn't just me applying to school, going through "the ringer," it was my wife and mother as well- people that depend on me, that have given such incredible and unflagging support to help me reach my goals. I felt the weight of every rejection much more heavily because I knew that it truly was a team effort. Today, I am so happy at school here in NY. My classmates are wonderful, the curriculum, using the "upside down" classroom, really suits me, and I am succeeding quite well. It's impossible to say whether I would have done as well or been better off in northern California, but what I can say for sure is that life and school here are are awesome. I also had to rehome my dog. I used to have a 120lb Akita, named Kazo. He had a hard time in our home because the social dynamic was "off." My wife and I lived with my mother, and the trainer I hired to help us with Kazo seemed to think that a lot of the problem centered around the dog believing that my mother couldn't take care of herself, and that he had to be on guard for her, 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week. We worked with him pretty intensely, but at the end of the day, it wasn't enough. I January 2014 Kazo attmepted to attack my wife. Thankfully, she was able to escape, but it was only by the "skin of her teeth." We were able to find him a good home through an adoption agency that specializes in large-breeds, but I was sorry to see him go. I raised Kazo from a pup, and he was about 4 years old when he left us. At the time I felt a lot of anger towards my mother and even my wife. I think I also feel disappointed that I didn't work harder with Kazo to try and help him. On the other hand, I'm not sure any amount of work would have ameliorated the situation. That's regret. At the same time, my wife's dog, a much smaller Kelpie rescue was able to move in with us (she had been living with my wife's mother) after Kazo found a new home. Kelpie's work best when they have a partner dog, so we adopted a second dog, Murphy, a Basenji cross, (also a rescue) to keep up with Dia. Both the dogs are unbelievably happy and thriving. Our house is much less stressful because we no longer have Kazo, so things have worked out for the best. However, I found some photos and his bio from when I placed him for adoption the other day and I was, and am still, a little upset. Sometimes life doesn't work out the way you want, but you have to make the best and move on. I'm hoping I don't have to make many more choices like this in the future, because they hurt, and because perhaps, with a little planning (eg, examining the household a little more carefully) could be obviated. And found out that I have genital warts. My wife had HPV prior to our relationship and the HPV has manifested itself on me in this way. It's upsetting and depressing- I always thought that part of me was "perfect" somehow. I guess I'm greatly relieved that I didn't get this from my wife via an extramarrital affair. After speaking with my doctor, I confirmed the timeline was such that it could not be determined when she had gotten the disease and how long I had had it. My wife and I spoke about it, and I remembered a conversation we had many years ago about her having some "non-cancerous" lumps after visiting her OBGYN, so knowing that everything is in order with the most important relationship in my life is something I'm extremely thankful for. All of these episodes make me feel tremendous relief and gratefulness. I have a lot be thankful for and a lot to be relieved about. I look forward to all the experiences that will enrich my life as I move forward, and although this past year had a lot of positives, I hope that this upcoming year has a experiences that are a little less intense than the ones of this year past. I am happy, but I'm not sure the level of emotionality, good or bad, is sustainable in the long term, at least not without deleterious effects to my health.

I began a coaching program at Coaches Training Institute to refine my executive coaching skills. It is significant because the trajectory of my professional life has changed and I am forever grateful and inspired.

My second husband's family is coming for a visit in the next month. I sense the real purpose of this visit is to get money from him. The better part of me wants to believe that they are going to visit with him because he is 86 years old and has much family history to pass on to them before he dies. The realistic side of me tells me that they are going to "pitch him" for money for school, for down payments, for contributions to their non-profit, etc. They haven't seen him in 20 years and the communication in those 20 years has been limited to holidays and other situations in which they needed money (higher education, down payments, legal fees, IRS penalties, etc.). I am feeling resentful. They have no idea what our needs are at this stage of our lives. We have health issues, house maintenance items, ever-increasing bills, etc.

I completed a weeklong intensive Nia White Belt training and an Ageless Grace training. It inspired me to stay involved with Nia and Ageless Grace and go more deeply into it and learn to teach it. I am amazingly grateful to have begun the classes and been encouraged to get more involved I am relieved to know that my mind and body can do it and love it. I resent not having been more inspired and being more fearful of these sort of challenges long ago. I am inspired to learn more and share with others

I participated in an Adult Bat Mitzvah. It showed me how strong I could be, how smart I really was. Yes, to both the Rabbis and the Cantor for all their support. I am inspire to be a better person stand up for what I think and trust my judgement.

I went to Mexico City and visited Casa Azul, Frida Kahlo's residence. I felt incredibly moved and inspired to get a glimpse into this powerful, talented, and strong female painter's life. Frida exemplifies the kind of person I aspire to be: Someone with a child-like wonder who handles the tragic events of life with blissful grace. Someone who is not afraid to assert her identity and does not shy away from people and public recognition. Someone who adores her family, and gives all she has to the people she loves. Someone who takes pride in her ethnic heritage and cultural background, and has a strong consciousness of social justice. A woman who stands up for beliefs and will not be bullied into oblivion by self-doubt, insecurities, anxiety, depression, and people who don't listen. Visiting Casa Azul moved me to my core and brought out a sense of empathy, admiration, and inspiration in me that I sometimes forget I posses. It is interesting that by taking an intimate look into Frida's life, into someone else's life, I am able to better self-reflect on my own.

Several children with unexpected, serious health problems. I'm nearly exhausted. Sorry it happened. Need to be more proactive regarding my own health and stamina--"put my own oxygen mask on first".

After a lifetime free of broken bones, I tripped over a bike and broke a large bone in my upper arm (the Humerus) at the age of 66. I was angry and scared at how poor the care was in my local hospital and how large the fracture looked on the x-ray. I'm now left with a sense of awe and gratitude at the amazing ability of the human body to heal itself.

I have 3 1) Alex asking me to go to his graduation. I was flattered. It took a lot for him to ask me. I am grateful for our friendship. President Obama spoke. 2) I sold my condo and started renting an apartment again. A big single - open - artist space...I am relieved and excited to have created a space for whom I am today. 3) I found a way for me to have Art + Personal Growth. For me to help others ... I am inspired by the Creatively Fit Coaches and grateful this come into my life.

My father and siblings relationships have significantly detiorated. I'm terribly sad, frustrated and disappointed. Intellectually, I know I am not the cause and cannot correct this situation. Emotionally, it is a heavy burden to carry.

Death of aunt at age 104. Inspired to live every day.

My husband of 7 years finally moved out and we are beginning divorce proceedings. I am so relieved that I no longer have to live with him and the psychological abuse we put each other through.

Moved in with my partner. I feel relieved and happy.

Although more recent, the most significant thing that happened to me this past year was the passing of my grandfather, Bernard Friedman. Grandpa had been sick for a while, having been diagnosed with Parkinson's five years ago, but in the weeks leading to his death he was hospitalized and many other issues came up, including lung cancer. I got to see my grandfather one last time before he passed, but he was unresponsive. I held his hand and he held mine back as I told him I loved him. I knew this day was coming, and thinking that since it was foreseen, I expected to deal with is more easily. I was very wrong. He passed on August 30, 2014 and that weekend was the most depressed I have ever been in my life. His funeral was the following day, August 31, and I cried all day long. The burial was the hardest and forced me to accept the fact that he was not coming back. Pouring dirt on his grave was my final goodbye, and I was surrounded by my entire family. That weekend, I learned a great deal about my grandfather that I never knew. He was a boy scout leader, a veteran of WWII, a founding member of his synagogue, and that he told his mother on the day he met my grandmother, "Ma, I just met the girl I'm going to marry." And he did. My grandparents were happily married for 66 years, spending every possible moment together. Although his death has affected me greatly, I feel so much sorrow for my grandmother as well, who now has to learn how to live without the love of her life, the man she said "knew how to do everything." The day I was to leave and return to my new home in San Diego, I had a emotional breakdown. I could not stop crying. I was terrified of all the change happening in my life. I graduated from college in May, moved out to San Diego by myself to start my first job, started being fiscally responsible for myself, and now I had also lost one of the most important people in my life. I did not want to go back to San Diego, and the sight of my sorrow left my mother worried about my mental health. It has now been three weeks since his passing, and I have decided to try and truly live the last piece of advice my grandfather gave me, "Be kind, and enjoy life." After a week of immense depression, I decided to take action to remove myself from the pit of "I can't" I had confined myself to, and decided to start enjoying life. I have been working on my health by attending cardio and yoga classes regularly, as well as starting Weight Watchers. I have opened myself up to new people to become new friends that I can rely on while I live far away from my old ones. I have opened my mind to new ideas and am advancing my skill set at work. And what is my motivation? Grandpa Bernie, and the beautiful and long, loved-filled life he lived for 89 years. I hope within the next years, and all the years to come that his wisdom will guide me to a life just as fulfilled as his.

I received more responsibility at work because a coworker got laid off. While my original job wasn't challenging, and the new job is routine, it is a lot more work for no more pay. I did receive a raise recently, but only because the minimum wage went up. I resent that a little bit. I don't think my company values me as an employee even though I am vital to the weekly publications, and I won't be surprised if I have a new job at this time next year.

I GOT MARRIED!!! It was a magical day and evening filled with amazing music, family and friends, and an abundance of love and support. I feel so grateful to have a community that came together to help make the entire event possible. I know there are many people who do not receive the outpouring and openness of their loved ones and I can only hope that the light we generated can carry into someone else's life and help encourage friends of friends who see pictures of our happiness and joy to open their hearts and arms to people who love differently than they do.

I had my bicycle stolen on July 28th. It was terrible. I went to the store that morning to pick up a few things and rode my newly rebuilt 1969 Raleigh Twenty. When I returned home, I locked it to the grill that's in the back yard, as I had done many times before. I didn't bring it inside because I was going on the Bike to Brew ride later, so it would only be there for about a half hour. I went upstairs and got ready to go. When I came back downstairs, I opened the back door. I saw the grill had been broken and flipped over. I threw down my bag, ran to the basement, and grabbed my other bike. Someone had to be close. I rode fast. I rode around like someone was chasing me. I searched up and down streets for about six blocks. I couldn't find anything. When I returned home, I went through the alley. I found the pump that was attached to the frame of my bike. It was three houses down. I picked it up and went back inside to file a police report. While on the phone with the police, I went through in my head what could have happened. Someone was driving down the alley, saw the bike, and came into my fenced in back yard. They kicked the leg out of the grill and flipped it over, then walked the bike to the alley. They turned south, then walked a little. When they went to lift the bike into their truck, then must have accidentally knocked the pump off of the frame while lifting it. So it was more than likely Scrappers. From this story, I've learned that I should lock my bike to a solid/non-movable object whenever it is more than an arms length away. If I'm just going inside, so should the bike.

I attended my brother-in-law when he was dying of cancer and stayed in hospice with him for three days. During my watch in the late hours of the third night, I remembered that I had some crystals with me for meditating. I placed those crystals above his crown chakra and laid down to sleep for a few hours telling myself to awaken by 6:00AM. I woke up at 5:45 and realized he had just passed. When I retrieved the crystals they had undergone a transformation in those 2-3 hours that I slept. I felt humbled and honored that my crystal knowledge helped him pass into his next journey.

Tshuva! I came back...to Judaism. I read R Lew's book, This Is Real & You Are Completely Unprepared" and came back. I saw that this "new" expression of Judaism was, in Jay Michaelson's words , non-dual. This was my Buddhist practice with heart, with an expectation of joy, with the involvement of the community...and it resonated with me. It was as if my entire world was turned upside down. That I am writing this, that I am here would have been entirely inconceivable 13 months ago!!! It is now 1 pm on erev RH and I can hardly wait to get to shul!!! Amazing...

I have completed the first year of a new marriage. After some bad experiences with relationships, I was a little wary as to how things would develop as time passed. Things between us are better than ever. We are compatible spiritually, politically, family wise and even dietarily! I am most grateful, relieved and inspired.

I broke up with my then boyfriend 10 months ago during a hazy night of heavy drinking that I don't really remember. I am grateful not in the way ended, but in the results of it ending the way it did. I was in the relationship for all the wrong reasons--my own insecurities to blame--hence the heavy drinking. I haven't touched booze since then and have no desire to. I have a better job than what I had when I was with him. I am focused on improving or at least facing my own life rather than getting wrapped up in someone else's. I admit I miss him still. And I am single still. I will likely always be single, and that's just something I'm trying to learn to live with and embrace.

We lost my father-in-law last November. It was a tremendous shock to everyone, and one from which we are all still recovering. I have struggled particularly with postponing my own grief while I tried to help my husband, children, and mother-in-law mediate theirs. The affect has been profound, and I'd say touches on each of the suggested emotions. I am so grateful to my Lord and Savior for His presence in our lives throughout this year. It is His grace that has allowed us to begin to heal and to move beyond the anger and resentment that creeps into our consciousness on days we miss sharing a challenge or victory with this awesome man. I have felt the relief of joy in the midst of sorrow this year in ways that were unknown to me before losing dad. The kindness of strangers, the depth of friendships, the mending of family bonds, and the "peace that passes all understanding" from my Lord. The life dad lived was an inspiration, and the void left inspires me to seek God more fervently and walk out my calling more courageously than ever before. This year was marked by losing dad, but also by gaining an appreciation for life.

I visited Israel in April/May for the first time in 25 years. It was an eye-opening and deeply affecting trip. I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have gone, not to mention the people I was able to talk to personally and to listen to as they talked about their experiences in Israel. It definitely inspired me to be more engaged with Israel on my return, talking to friends and congregants, reading newspapers and articles, posting on Facebook. And watching the war unfold over the summer left me frustrated, powerless, and sad.

I finally found people willing to help me build the organization that my community needs to live up to the title of The City of Arts and Innovation. I now have even more work to do, but I am slowly building relationships that will help me delegate authority and share my dream with others. I am greatly inspired!

I just got laid off yesterday. Extremely grateful at the moment...it was HIGH time I do something else with my life! whooo-hooooo! Funny how hard a kick in the seat of the pants it takes to move on...

Rozwiodłem się. Pogodziłem się z tym i zamknełem ten rozdział. Przyznałem się przed samym sobą, że kocham Agnieszkę. Powiedziałem to także jej... i zmieniło to nasze życia. To mnie mocno uwolniło.

I started practicing yoga. It has affected me in that it has given me space each day I practice to be mindful, in the moment, still and focused. This has, to a small degree as I am just starting out, flowed into other areas of my life. A co-worker said my energy had changed. I find I am able to be a bit more patient and while I still get angry at stupid things, I can calm more quickly. I am grateful to have found this outlet that impacts my well being across so many levels. I am relieved to have an outlet for working on myself in a positive way and I am very inspired to continue practicing. I hope to make this a way of life.

I'm a little over eight months pregnant, getting ready to give birth to my first child. Being pregnant is surreal, natural, mystifying, inexplicable magic. Last year, this answer was all about my miscarriage. Other answers included the hope that I would be pregnant or have a child by the time I was reviewing my answers. It made me grateful beyond words to have realized this milestone. There have been a lot of other hurdles and challenges and questions in my life in the past year, but this is the one thing that I know, with absolute certainty, is meant for me. I have always seen myself with a daughter, and she is finally on her way. I'm so excited to meet her.

Lost my job because of a drunk e-mail I sent. I'm relieved to not be at the job, but it's stressful looking for work. Four months of this, opened my mind to every kind of job, applied to so many different jobs, plenty that don't require much education at all. No one's biting. So I'm relieved, but sorry I didn't really leave on my terms, or have any sort of plan. Cash is about run out, and I hope to find something soon.

We ran a world premier show this year. What an amazing experience... The kids were so excited to be a part of a "NEW SHOW". Unfortunately it was somewhat anti-climactic as the playwright who was supposed to attend didn't make it... but we still loved doing it!z We questioned if we could pull it off - I'm so I'm actually very encouraged - don't be afraid to take the chance - we'll rise to the occasion!!!

Joan and I decided to return to Green Valley after living in Park City, Utah for two years. I am grateful she decided to return with me and did not want to stay in PC. I feel my community is here in Green Valley and I am more appreciative of the friendships, connections and institutions here. This is where I want to live my life. It took moving away for me to appreciate that fact. LUMOSITY has helped me remain sharper mentally. I workout every day! I also stopped drinking wine and beer because I felt very fuzzy after drinking and I do not want to loose any of my mental function!

Over the last year, my husband and I made a decision to manifest our destiny in Hawaii. That meant leaving a place I have lived in over 60 years. And going through everything I had accumulated over that time, and divest. I am grateful to have a loving and supportive husband, who inspires me to make it happen. This is a BIG move. Another, is the discovery of letters my father had written to his sister during his enlistment in the South Pacific, WW2. I'm learning more about his experience there through these, than I ever knew. I am grateful for that, too. My dad has been gone twenty years now...

Partner lost her job. Grateful to appreciate all the ways that a wholesome life is completely unconnected to our wage-focused jobs.

My 18-year-old daughter moved out on her own. I am very grateful that she found something she's interested in doing.

I graduated this year. That was really something that I was really proud of. I never thought that grad school would be something I could have done, but I was so proud that I was able to graduate and also the experience of living in New York was unforgettable. I met people who were inspiring and made friendships that made me a better person and I think I became more of an adult. The most valuable piece of it all was that I was able to find a job back in CA doing something I really believe in. It has been a great experience and all of it has been wonderful.

Through dealing with the struggles with life I have given up the expectation that a family business is something that will happen. I feel that this is more explainable as a loss of hope, but I feel that it is a double edged sword. I feel that is has releived some pressure that I place upon myself to be financial successful (provide), but it still is an underlying loss of hope. Life is tough and finding time to persue other things does not seem feasible and finacial constraints are ever apperant.

My Significant Summer in Yankton I shot archery at the national and world championships for the first time. It was stressful and full of highs and lows. True doubt would creep in, especially at the least advantageous of moments. For example, I shot a 19/20 from the 80 yard walkup (a truly amazing feat, maybe a world record for my bow classification) and then proceeded to shoot all remaining 80 yard walkups in the tournaments extremely badly (i.e. less than 11/20). I found that I am able to be calm quicker and focus easier in stressful situations. I am completely grateful for this shared experience, that would not have happened if my friend Dan did not support me as well as he did; Dan has told me that this shared experience was exactly the same for him as well. I am relieved that I was able to rise to the challenge and not fall into an anxious mire of emotional poop (i.e. target panic). I was resentful of petty competitive comments and criticisms. I am inspired to continue shooting competitively as a mindful exercise similarly as one might do yoga.

Graduated nursing school!

I finally got inspired to lose weight. Without dieting. Just eating less and moving more. Lots of walking. Eating things I like but just not so much of them. Cutting way back on pasta, rice and bread but not eliminating them. I'm extremely relieved, grateful and proud of myself. 50 pounds down!

I got pregnant. A few times. And finally stayed pregnant. With a son this time. I had been hoping for a girl. I know what to do with a girl; I already have one. And I still have all her baby stuff, so it would have simplified my baby needs tremendously to have a second one. However, now I'm glad I'm having a boy. Sure, there are some scary things about having boys; the whole topic of circumcision unnerves me, and I am a little nervous about the toddler years, as my friends with boys keep telling me we will be in and out of the ER. But I like that we will have a balance, no one gender overwhelming the other. And it will almost be like having two only children, as nobody will have hand-me-downs. Plus...I get boys. Most of my friends have been boys. I can relate to them. Mostly, though, I'm just relieved that we're finally going to have another child, and that the child is healthy. That's what I really wanted. And there were times this year that I worried it wasn't going to happen, that I'd waited too long. Or that my daughter was a fluke. Something like that. But sometimes miracles happen.

My son and now druthers in law got married He graduated both Basic training and his MOS for the Army National Guard of CT It has inspired me to respect him even more and appreciate all I have more dearly than ever in my life

I gave birth to twins after years of struggling with infertility. My delivery had complications and I had to have a blood transfusion to survive. The entire experience left me grateful to be alive, appreciative that I have 2 beautiful babies, but mostly a huge sense of responsibility to raise these children right.

My girlfriend and I adopted a dog. She's a small, white, fluffy Japanese Spitz. I love the dog very much and enjoy playing with her. Her arrival did make me pretty upset. After months of my girlfriend begging for a dog and my consistent refusal to agree to having this new housemate (especially considering we have a cat), my girlfriend went ahead and picked up the dog anyway. She's become a bit of a nuisance since she barks at everything and anyone. It's uncomfortable to even take her for a walk. To correct this, we're spending quite a lot of money on very expensive training. I hope, that in the end, this is all worth it.

My dad called me out of the blue to make a confession about his past. I wanted to vomit and felt he was someone other than I thought he was.

The death of my mother-in-law. It was completely unexpected - she was healthy and fit and only 65. It made me think about the futility of life, the need to live as fully as possible and take care of the things that really matter.

It's hard to pick the most significant experience this year because there were so many, but I would have to say that buying a house was probably the most significant. We got married but buying the house seems to have turned us into a unit in ways that the wedding only confirmed and forced us to make decisions together for the first time.

I went on an 8-week sabbatical from my job. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to do this, and used it to relax, exercise more, spend more time with my kids and de-stress overall. I feel like I came out of it with a better perspective on work and life that I need to remind myself to come back to when I'm starting to feel stressed or am not happy about how I'm balancing all my priorities. I'm glad I took the time but am a little sad that it's gone now and will never get it back again.

I finally sought out help for my depression, upon starting medication for it, it was as if a wound I'd been carrying for years finally healed. I'm incredibly relieved to finally have my love of life back, there's still a lot I need to work through, but it really helps to finally be moving in the right direction.

I was laid off twice in 2014. I am not grateful for this experience. This past year I have worked hard to avoid depression, panic, victimhood, and bitterness. Being able to spend extra time with my young grandchildren has literally saved my life. I think emotionally that I am doing pretty well. This would all be wonderful and sweet, except that I now have absolutely no income whatsoever and in one month's time I won't be able to pay my rent. I could very well be evicted. I used to own a house (which I lost to the bank) - and I used to have a job that paid 6 figures. I was laid off from my last real job in early 2010 and have only had a series of short-term project-oriented jobs ever since. To these places, I am seen as expendable. Since 2010 I have applied for over 400 jobs. People out there assume that homelessness could never happen to a college-educated woman who has worked as a professional her entire life. But it can and it does.

In March, I was dumped by my boyfriend of 5 years, out of the blue, and the next day my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was an absolutely awful week, and I honestly couldn't see a way through it. It affected me badly at the time - I didn't eat, was hardly sleeping and I just felt sick all day long every day for about 6 weeks. I am grateful I was dumped now, because I realised that I really wasn't happy in the relationship, and I never would have ended it myself. Its made me stronger and more independant, and honestly was one of the best things to happen to me. My mum getting cancer was absolutely awful, it was devastating and I'm definitely not grateful that happened, but it has brought us closer as a family. My friends have said that I'm much more mature, and that I've changed a lot. I thought I would be a psycho-ex, calling my ex all the time and badgering him, but I didn't phone or text him once which I'm really proud of. I'm only 25, but I thought he was going to be my husband, so it was hard to adjust. In hindsight, 6 months later, I've had an absolutely significant experience as I appreciate my family and friends so much more, and it has definitely amde me stronger person. I don't feel particularly relieved or inspired, but I'm definitely grateful that my ex ended the relationship as we hadn't been right for a while, and I was sweeping the problems under the carpet. It was a huge adjustment to make, but at the moment I'm the happiest I've been since my first year of University 5 years ago, so I think I'm almost over it.

My husband passed away after a long bettle with cancer. After taking care of him for the last five years, it was just me and the dog. Then the dog died in his sleep almost a year after my husband died. Heartache and sadness hits me so randomly, but there is also joy in each day. For the first time in my life, I am learning to live alone. This is a completely new experience for me, a new skill, and I realize that I am not a big fan of living alone. Friends and family have been great, and I'm grateful for all of the support I've received over the past year. This experience has taught me the importance of living each day and counting my blessings, especially love.

I met Joey. Meeting someone who I want to have a long term relationship with has affected me in many ways: I'm questioning some of what I thought was necessary for my happiness. For example, I've been wanting to move to the coast or Hawaii for a number of years now...and while I still prefer those sites I feel like they are less integral to my happiness because I would prioritize being with her rather than where I live. I am grateful and scared and hopeful and suspicious and unsure of what I should hold onto as my own dreams and desires and what I can let go of as I create a partnership with her. Given that she is also leaving for 3 months after we've only been together for around a month, I am a bit anxious—not a lot, but a little—about how this will affect our growing relationship.

I was diagnosed with a brain tumor called an acoustic neuroma. It was a life changing experience because I suddenly realized that life is very precious and short and we really take good health for granted. I also learned that I am a lot stronger than I thought and able to handle this without it changing the way i handled my daily life. I am amazed at how strong i was going into surgery and how well i healed. I am so grateful i did not have any side effects and that even though i lost my hearing in the left ear, i realize it could have been a lot worse.

This has been a really, really quiet year - I honestly can't think of anything "significant" that has happened. Just continuing with grad school. :/

My first answer would be participating in the SF to LA AIDS ride and all the support from family and friends leading up to the Ride itself. While you are on the Ride there is lots of talk about the "Love Bubble" that surrounds the Riders, Roadies, Moto, Traffic, SAG, Staff and even onlookers along the route. And I am happy to report that not only does it actually exist, but the glow continues for a long time afterwards!!! So a HUGE THANK YOU to everyone on the Ride, everyone with a cowbell along the route (you really helped me to the top of the hill!!), the entire town of Bradley, CA, and the altar guild of the little Episcopal church I stopped at on Day 3.

I had to deal with my sisters fit over the kids not visiting last summer. It has been hard. I have felt bad for her but she also has crossed the lines with what is a reasonable reaction. Her not respecting my parenting choice has led her to harassing us with hateful emails, phone calls and texts, even threats. She has told terrible lies and used manipulation which I fell into. I love her but she is suffering from something much greater and I am just her punching bag. I believe the stress of that situation led to the tumor that grew in me and caused me to be so sick and have surgery. I would never want to relive the ordeal but it has also taught me that I can be strong and I can draw the line when at other times I have been unable. The experience has taught me a lot about patience, anger and guilt. I have learned that holding on to anger brings no peace. I have resolved my feelings and have moved on. Maybe one day she and I will have a relationship. I won't be expecting an apology as I have already forgiven but maybe we can be there for each other if needed.

I got a new job and moved to a state I love- but the job has turned out be to far less than ideal and long story short, has left me wondering about an entire career change and life shift. I am in the process of figuring out where I want to direct my energy, and how to make the work I do more fulfilling and meaningful. I suppose I am slightly resentful at the lack of professionalism, but more grateful that I can live in a place I love and have the opportunity to learn from this.

I was watching my six year old son working on his homework and I was suddenly struck by how much he looked like me when I was his age. It made me feel a deeper obligation to him as a father. I felt like I have to give him the opportunity to have the experiences that I have had that made me the person I am. I am very lucky to be his father and I need to live up to the example my father set for me.

We have raised our children with a strong emphasis on honesty, respect, honor and personal accountability. With that said, this past summer our teenage daughter knowingly misled and lied to me after being asked about a specific situation. It crushed me. It has taken me several months to work through the hurt and I am still working on rebuilding our relationship with trust and respect. I hold on to the hope that we will both become better people as a result of this shared experience and that the life lessons will never escape her thoughts. Nor mine.

On May 31 2014, my husband decided to seek treatment for alcohol addiction. A weight was lifted off my shoulders that day - I could finally speak openly about a problem I had been witnessing for a long time. That day, I decided to quit drinking in support of him. The weeks following were stressful - how will he respond to treatment? what will our family, friends, and coworkers think? what will we do for fun? It has been a difficult yet rewarding experience that has brought us closer together. We're relearning how to do things without alcohol in the picture - and that is a good thing.

Kol Zimra 7 in Santa Fe New Mexico, where I was able to tell my story to those who could listen without judgement. To be able to see the signposts all around me, to be encourage to let it be simple and to simplify. It led me to a deeper understanding a clarification of presence so when I came closer to being grounded I was better able to integrate more of my experience. There is much more to explore but I am not in as much fear of forgetting.

A huge, significant event was our wedding!!! IT was AMAZING. The biggest, most wonderful part about it was that almost every guest connected with each other, and it felt like our community solidified in a big way. I know everyone will remember those days together. And, I know that those folks will remind us of the love that we created there together. I feel sooo grateful.

This last spring, after 4 years as a beginning teacher and being moved to a different school and different grade levels almost each year due to financing and student numbers I was let go by the district. It had been noted in my file that I basically recieved no support until my 4th year, however I was still told I didn't perform at the level expected of a fourth year teacher. This has left me questioning my decision to enter education as a second career and has me feeling unable to care and provide for my son. I have swung between extremes- from "I can substitute teach and re-invigorate my acting and choreography career!" to "I will lose the house, default on my student loans (still over 50k after 20 years) and lose shared custody of my son, becoming an every-other-weekend dad." I try to view it as an oportunity to alter my perspective- between my divorce last September (just over a yuear, so it doesn't count for this question!) and losing my job I have the oportunity to start fresh in so many ways. At times this feels indulgent, but if not now when? When will I ever have the chance to re-examine what is most important to me, what kind of mark I want to make on those around me, what kind of legacy can I leave for my son? If I imagine how the man I WANT to be would react to these circumstances, will I be strong enough to follow his example and begin filling his shoes?

Kristen got pregnant. I was incredibly relieved, as we'd be trying for quite a while. Obviously, this is a game changer. If everything goes to plan, this time next year I'll be a proud father, consumed by an inevitable lack of sleep and poopy diapers. I'm already regretting our decision to use cloth diapers.

My mother in law passed away in November. She was 72 - not as old as I used to think it was. It has reminded me how short and precious life is, and has challenged me to make the most of my time left.,

My existential crises: probably the best thing that has ever happened to me. Though it sucked. It really fucking sucked. I was at parsons stressed beyond belief: not eating, not sleeping, an impossible amount of work to get done, anxious every moment of the day and unsure that life was really worth living if that's whatnot looked like. I was so stressed my anxiety got out of hand and I was pretty positive that I was going insane. One day I finally decided I felt unsafe and needed to go home and booked a flight that evening. The plan ride sucked. I mean it fucking sucked. I was so anxious and suicidal and all I could do was be in my kind about it the whole time. When I got off my last plane I saw mom and dad waiting for me and just started bawling: I needed the comfort. But I got home and mom made me soup that I couldn't eat because I was so anxious and had no appetite. The next few days mom woulda me me dinner, she even made a thanksgiving dinner for me and I couldn't eat it. I had to drink ensure protein shakes to make sure I was getting enough nutrients. I was miserable and lost and my identity was wrapped up in what I was doing and where I was going. I thought that I had to continue to go back to architecture school otherwise I was a failure. I decided to take a year off after a couple of hard weeks. Then Christmas break came and I went back to NYC for a spell to clear things up. I was miserable and anxious and just wanted to go home. And then things started settling. I began to run every day and practice yoga and eat healthy. I began to nurture myself. I slept so much and rested and cuddled. I'd sleep with my mom sometimes and sometimes with Pinot right at my feet. It felt so good to be home and loved and taken care of. And though I knew mom was moving away I still felt at home. I began to feel a little more peace. I began to understand who I was. I remember my runs were like meditation to me: is focus only on the few steps in front of me. If marvel at nature, at the bird flying against the wind, at the long empty roads lined with fences and horses. I began to appreciate stillness and nature. I began to understand where my happiness resided. A few weeks prior to mom leaving (I was miserably sad that she was) I decided to go to yoga school in Costa Rica and get trained. This was quite possibly the best decision I made ever. I made the most wonderful friends, I was challenged, I learned to accept myself and love myself, to see my self worth, to live a life mindfully and full of love and compassion. I met the most wonderful mentors who truly helped breathe life back into me. And Ron, precious Ron and his talks with me, his patronly way he spoke to me. And Nicole, how when at the beginning of the training she found me crying on my bed and we cried together about losing our moms. And then how the last day we spent together we cried in each others arms about how beautiful life was and our journeys. We cried not because we were sad but because things were still and everything was so clear. And Tay, after them unfailing meditation when she was afraid that she didn't feel what everyone else felt and she was so sad and I told her that I couldn't feel it either. And I felt so connected with her. And how Catherine and I lounged on the beach topless and watched Nicole and Greta surf and laughed about how they were unable to be still. And Greta, how she was the first to give me a big great hug when I arrived and set the loving mood for what was to come. It was beautiful. It was exactly what I needed. It was everything.

I found out I was pregnant in January. We had been trying for about 6 months and we were thrilled, excited and apprehensive! At the moment, I am two days off my due date, and really hoping the baby will be punctual! I've literally been pregnant all year, and everything has been a new experience - the physical and emotional highs and lows have been hard at times, but feeling the baby kick for the first time, seeing your baby on the scan, hearing the heartbeat - all of that has been magical and miraculous - at times you can barely believe it is really happening - there's really a little miracle inside you. We've also had fun getting kitted out and ready with new nursery furniture and all the bits and bobs we need - right now we just can't wait to meet him for the first time.

I have a rare medical condition Neurofibromatosis (NF) which among other issues causes learning disabilities. I had a formal assessment and finding out at 65 that I actually have clinical issues and was just being self deprecating was a relief. My story of struggling in early elementary school then going on to a good university and to law school and having a career as a Public Defender and a supervising attorney was featured in the on line newsletter of with other adults who have he NF foundation. In October I will be as panel at the annual NF education conference of adults who handled learning disabilities and had successful careers. I guess next year I will be writing about that

There are so many significant and noteworthy things that have taken place this year. It's simply a matter of remembering them all. Travel: This was not a great yeat of personal travel for me. I still have yet to take a personal trip but have traveled 3-4 times for work. I missed my flight to L.A which I was planning to go to for my birthday. Now, I somewhat regret now going for my rescheduled flight the following day. I wish I had gone to see L.A, to change sceneries and mindsets and possibly have a good time. I had a great time for my birthday with Ben, who decorated the condo with a Parisian theme, complete with Stromae's music in the background, little amuse-gueules, chocolate covered strawberries and champagne. Topped with a huge portrait of the Parisian landscape. It was a phenomenal effort on his part and I was pleasantly surprised. Love: Late last year, I moved out of my mom's place and then found myself relocating again just two months later with my boyfriend. Things have been tumultuous and definitely eye-opening. Living with someone you are intimate with is a rollercoaster of emotions and often prematurely expose you to things you wouldn't have otherwise discovered about the person Work: Things on this front have been good. My job is standart and the people are nice. The money is good...for now. However I'm tired of the routine and the work environment, rules and power-driven regulations. Personal: This year has been so quiet in terms of everything (love - I had a boyfriend. Travel - I didn't, Work - paycheck every 2 weeks, Family - at a distance) that I haven't felt truly challenged which has left me to truly wonder if the things I have are enough to keep me happy. I turned 24 and there was no huge epiphany. It has come to me in pieces, small from some loss of ego, some forms of self-acceptance, some decisions about ambitions and the pursuit of happiness. Currently, my mother is living with me and everything is up in the air. I want to move to L.A, I want to work for myself, I want to put writing ideas on papers and develop them into something beautiful. I want to truly consider whether I'm ready to settle down with this person and if not, with whom? when? I want to remember how to live, not just get up and work. I want to remember the things that truly matter. I also partook in the recreational activity of smoking marijuana. I love it - and I can say that confidently because I had a phase when Ben and I smoked every other day and now I know its benefits and its areas of concerns. Overall, I am grateful as always to my Creator for everything that has happened this year. Perhaps it is not going at the speed I wanted but I'm confident it will get me to where I truly want to be. At the top. Happy. Content. Successful. Proud. Able to help others. I'm relieved to have moved out, moved on (from Matthew), inspired for the future and looking forward to it.

Took some time off. Was hoping for a more relaxing break. However helped an uncle in a tough situation and my taking a break at the right time was a great relief for them. A little of all but mostly grateful that I could actually take that break.

During my mid year review with my boss I was told flat out that I was not a good fit for the position. I was stunned as I have over 14 years of experience with our company with every increasing levels of responsibility and success. Initially I felt resentful, hurt, angry. As i have reflected on this situation I have found that I am at a higher level of peace now having this issue on the table. The turn of events has empowered me to look for more meaningful and satisfying work.

I'm 21 years old and live with a chronic pain condition known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD). Although my condition has worsened during the last year, this past summer I was blessed with a service dog, named Addie, gifted to me by the Foundation for Service Dog Support. Addie has helped ease concerns of my family that I live alone and fall often. She also has given me the opportunity to walk more and she serves to keep me balanced. She helps me pick up dropped objects and has even kept me from falling a couple of times, and even when I do fall, she helps me get up. RSD patients often suffer from immense pain from the lightest touch, getting brushed up against by a person in public is incredibly painful. Addie benefits me in providing a "buffer zone" that that doesn't occur as much. Most importantly, she senses my "pain cycles" and can sense when I've forgotten to take my medication and will alert me. I love my Addie May with all my heart and I am so very grateful to the support and assistance she offers but also to the organization she came from. And a lick and paw in the morning is always nice too! :)

My dad had a stroke and a brain tumor. He was in the hospital for a few months. I was shocked and heartbroken, but happy that I had been there to save his life (I called hazola). I am so happy and relieved that he is better now, and every time I see him I remember. I also wrote a terrific essay for school about the situation, so I guess that's the inspired part. So I was scared, heartbroken, but now I'm relieved, grateful, and inspired.

Both my mom and dad had surgeries this year for the first time ever. Both were routine and went well, but it caused me extreme anxiety just thinking about their health and the fact that they are getting older.

Tomorrow, we will help our son move into his dorm room at UCLA, something unimaginable two years ago when the bottom was quickly falling out of his life and he seemed out of ideas. The staff at our synagogue, where he had been working as a music leader in Sunday school, encouraged him, held him, prodded him, tolerated him, and ultimately the mentorship of Rabbi Lezak and Dan Nichols ignited some deep desire in him. They instilled in him such confidence that I believe he will become an influential Jewish educator as he continues to grow. We are so fortunate to have this kehila kadosha around us, who loved him as their own, saw through his pain and confusion, and gently started him on a truly holy path. I am beyond grateful.

I quite a job I was not happy in. In the past I thought that people who said that a job "wasn't a good fit" were lame and weak, but now I know that it can happen to anyone. Realizing that made me happy. Not being there anymore made me happy. And grateful. And Relieved. Not Resentful. Very inspired.

I found out that my remicade drug was no longer working. Going off the drug meant that I had 8 more days to be active a year. I was grateful that I knew, but also frustrated in that I had no workable solution to control my colitis.

I got a new job at one of the world's most popular companies, Apple! I shed Gap and took on a major challenge. This job can be rewarding, exhausting, fun, overwhelming, encouraging, and demanding. For the most part, I like it. Some days I am overcome with hate for the kinds of people I have to deal with, but then I remember that my job is to serve all people, not just the nice ones. Being a technician ain't easy.

My one & only daughter got married on June 1. I was filled up in a way that I'd never experienced...I felt the magic of all of our experiences - the sweet ones and the ones I thought I'd never recover from meld into the beautiful woman that walked down the isle. I was inspired in ways I could never have imagined. The magic of watching my daughter plan such an extraordinary event & choose just those people in her life that she wanted to share this very sacred moment with was nothing short of extraordinary. I continue to be inspired daily at the life my daughter is creating....

My answer would be very different if asked just a few days ago. My husband and I are 42 and we found out 2 days ago I am expecting our third child. This was quite a surprise (we certainly weren't trying and didn't really think we had a chance if we did), and we have a 13- and 10-year old who will be quite shocked soon as well. In the 48+ hours since we got this surprising news, my thoughts have ranged from disbelief, anger, regret, fear to calm, feeling more balanced, being in a really good mood and happy about it, and accepting that if it's meant to be, it's meant to be. There are many risks to a pregnancy like this and I realize it may not work out. But to give that control up to the universe has been a huge step for me in the last two days. My perspective and attitude have changed drastically since the weekend, and my priorities were suddenly put into very clear order. For all of this, I am very grateful.

I've experienced the lifestyle financial planning method by Paul Armson. I went to Birmingham (UK) to his conference and did a workshop. This was very inspiring. I'm fully confinced that this is the way of doing it! It's not about this product is better than that product, it's about Peace of mind, financial security and clarity.

I began my divorce. It has been very emotionally draining, but I am grateful and very satisfied with my decision. In the process I have realized how I had not been placing myself in a self-important role, and having had an upbringing that does not encourage that you put yourself first as far as your needs in general has been very uplifting. I am getting closer every day to feeling more relief and less guilt about this decision. I have no resentment about this decision but do in fact feel inspired and gratified by this experience.

Mom died. What could be more significant than that? The world could end. But no one would remember. Mom dying is just like the world ending, but you remember it. Am I grateful, relieved, resentful, inspired? I am grateful that she is not suffering anymore. She was not happy at the end. She didn't know what was going on. She didn't want to eat or drink. She didn't want to get out of bed. She just wanted to sleep. Am I relieved? Heck yes! It has been hard watching her go downhill the last six years. It is been really hard taking care of her the last two years. I never got to cut back on my work hours and I stopped taking care of myself. That is certainly one lesson I learned. You can't take care of anyone else if you stop taking care of yourself. But somehow I managed to take care of her. And my resentful? I'm not resentful about her death. Sometimes I'm resentful because I believe it was hastened by her inactivity when she married Pete. She went from being an active senior to a person who sat on the couch in front of the TV just so she could hold his hand. It was a good thing that she had his companionship. She had been alone for so long. So I had to take the good with the bad. And of course I'm still resentful toward work because no one could accommodate me over the last two years when I needed to work less hours so I could be with mom. I feel like I'm starting to get over that resentment a little, but mainly because I know it doesn't do any good and it will just eat me up. Am I inspired? No, I'm just afraid. I'm afraid of what is going to happen to me when I get old. I don't have a loving daughter who will do anything to take care of me. I think that's why I've been thinking so much about gratitude and faith. Gratitude is my background middah for the year again. Everything goes better with gratitude in mind. And faith? I'm just starting to explore that because it's the only thing that's going to get me through.

Right now all I can think about is the diagnosis I received last Friday. I know things could be worse, but I am still worried and upset by the news. I'm worried my life will be limited and at risk and I will not be able to finish all my adventures. I'm worried I won't be able to trek a mountain, run a marathon, or work out the way I used to and aspire to. I'm worried my life experience will be hindered. I'm worried, most of all, that my life experience will be cut short far earlier than what I had hoped for. Right now, I'm just depressed.

Taking my 21-yo learning disabled son to his new residential placement for -- well, for ever. It left me feeling all of those things: grateful (that we have had such good luck in finding such a promising place for him to live, and grateful to the people who run it with such dedication); relieved (that his future seems to be assured); resentful (that other people will now get the benefit of all the work we put into bringing him up, and the pleasure of his brilliant personality); inspired (to work to help his community and its movement). Also tearfully anxious on his behalf; bereaved; and disorientated about my own identity – I have been a parent of young children continuously for the last thirty years! – what am I now?

I graduated with my PhD and obtained a postdoc at Harvard. I am extremely relieved to have finished my degree and extremely grateful for the job that I obtained. Unfortunately, I am not inspired to continue with academic pursuits. I like research, but the specificity of the way I must present the research to an academic is something I find tedious. I may not want to pursue a career as a professor... something I thought I wanted for many years.

For our 40th anniversary, in June my wife and I took a cruise from Dover, England to the island Spitsbergen, several hundred miles north of the Norwegian mainland. We reached almost 80 degrees north; the cruise had a period of about ten days with no sunsets, and an enormous variety of views of the spectacular Norwegian coast. The experience was utterly delightful: the (frequent) sobering reminders about climate change were interspersed with (even more frequent!) reminders about what a fantastic planet this is: worth enormous efforts to care for properly. I _do_ understand that traveling to see all that beautiful ice has a detrimental effect on all that beautiful ice; but nevertheless I'm deeply grateful for the chance to have seen.

College! Practically everyone I talked to about it said that teachers wouldn't care if you turned the assignment in or not, that the work was going to be so much harder, that I'd suddenly freak out about being there -- maybe I'm doing it wrong, but NONE of that has happened. Professors care, the workload isn't insane, and it might just be me, but this is extremely refreshing to be away from home for a change. yes, there's been a few things I've had to adjust to, but honestly? I love it. And I'm not even really a partier; I chill in my dorm with my friends and we have a great time. I never even drink and I have a good time! (that's another thing: you don't have to. don't let people pressure you into a drink, EVER.)

I fell in love with someone I'd thought was totally wrong for me. I staved him off for months, then broke up with him a couple of times. He was patient and just continued to show me the considerate, kind boyfriend he could be. Came as a complete surprise to me. I'm grateful and happy I was so wrong. He embraces who I am, with all my flaws.I'm very fortunate.

We had our son in November. It was VERY difficult because he had a lot of feeding issues due to food intolerances and reflux. I think we're through the worst of it but it really hit us hard. We're still working through it and he seems to be overall a pretty happy little guy.

This year we established ourselves in Kirkland, Washington. The decision to move and the actual move took place last year. This year was all about establishing our new lives. Connor starting a new school, getting therapy and his ADHD diagnosis. We started the year off purchasing our new home, and spent the majority of the year renovating and then moving into it. Our decision to move here has proven to be a great one. I am greatful for the increased opportunities that are available here. Connor is doing great in a school that is more organized and better funded than the schools that were available to us in Denver. I am thrilled live in a place where I have the opportunity to shop at Farmer's Markets year round and have been enjoying cooking in my dream kitchen. I am really looking forward to Thanksgiving this year. Jim has opportunities to grow here when he decides to take them. It's a tremendous relief to have the transition phase over and to know we are where we plan on living for the rest of our lives potentially. Now we can finally settle into some routines and work on building the life we want and spend less time reacting.

Changing jobs and going through the emotions of leaving a job with people that meant a lot to me. Very hard and difficult to leave my friends with a really hard task. But I had to do it and I feel much happier now. I felt like I was a person not to trust, that can't engage in assignment. Now I feel relieved that I made the right decision

Well, it was at the end of last year but I really felt it this year. I lost my job. Partly willingly walking away on my part. Then I found myself really needing to rest and coast. If someone looked at me, they would think I've fallen apart. My place is a mess, which is part of me not doing much every day. However, I think this letting go of EVEYRTHING is something I very much needed. The pendulum has swung very far to one side. Now I am working towards getting it to fall back to the happy middle. Hopefully a job is in the very near future and that it's the right job, allowing me to be everything I know I can be.

Probably the most significant experience that happened in the past year is my mother dying on April 19, 2014, at the age of 90. Although she was older than my father (87), we thought that due to dad's heart issues that he would surely die first. When my mother started losing weight and becoming more and more frail, it was clear that something was very wrong. She always feared that she would die from what killed her oldest sister -- cancer of the esophagus -- and indeed, that was the cause. I'm resentful because dad is more of a pain than I think mom would be, and because I only know understand that her anger was not directed at me, or because of me.

My daughter became a Bat Mitzvah. I was inspired by her effort and perfection but a bit disappointed that she did not want to continue her Jewish education at this time. I am proud of our family for hosting 50 out of town guests and extremely relieved that it is over.

I left my secure, well-paying job that I was no longer inspired by to go to graduate school. Not having a routine, financial security or professional stability is something that makes me extremely uncomfortable. To me, I am taking a big risk. I have doubts about my decision daily and ask myself "Will this pay off?" But then I remind myself that I've opened myself up to new possibilities, people and stories. I could continue down a career path that ensures that I will live comfortably, or I could try something that intrigues me and brings out the entrepreneurial and passionate side of me. So I think, maybe I'll have no savings. Maybe I'll even have a bit of debt for once in my life. And maybe it won't be that fun or easy in the beginning. But if I didn't try it, I would never know what could be. And I think I have potential.

Several significant experiences have happened this year, but I think I'll go with acquiring my own place as the most significant. The entire experience has been both good and bad for me. Getting my own place was a goal for awhile that finally got realized so that was a great feeling, but the process of finding the apartment was a nerve-wracking hellish experience (I do not recommend apartment hunting in NYC - it's awful and pricey). Also, living alone and not having to answer to anyone else is something I really love, but doing so has also put me in a financial state that rivals my days as a college student (broke all the time).

The birth of my second daughter. We are hugely happy to have 2 children, as that was our goal. With me starting a new business, Laura going back to work and with our first daughter just turning 3, life is really chaotic. We're always tired and hardly spend time with each other, since we're focused on taking care of the children first, and then work second. We know that the timing is perfect now and that in a year or two, life will be easier, but it certainly is challenging now. I work with two childless (and partner-less) people and I see the fun and freedom they are having now. They eat, drink and socialize. I wish to go to sleep.

My mother's will was settled. It made my life easier having the funds to renovate my house but it tore my family apart. I am grateful,relieved,angry,resentful and just plain upset by my sisters and brothers. We didn't see eye to eye before but now we will never look in each other's eyes again. So sad!

God, How many? Well this last one is definitely the biggest. I've had my knee replacement removed last July 28th. For close to 3 months now of pain, immobility and demolished physical utility, I've flooded my body with toxic antibiotics. Leaving me a depleted shell of a body with little energy, no appetite, though hungry, thirsty, but nothing tastes appealing. I've felt deep abandonment, mixed with awed gratitude for the help and kindnesses I've received. As well as shock and anger at cruelty. Today should be the last day of the antibiotics, I hope, and for that I will be most grateful. I look forward to the next painful episode of having a new knee replacement in a few months.

The one that sticks out the most right now is going for - and getting - three jobs, in the last couple months. The experience of travelling around different employers in the US, impressing them with my presence and ability, holding that energy, and effectively creating my future was energising, encouraging, exhilarating, exciting and nerve-wracking.

My daughter graduated from high school and went to college. I am happy, because she was so ready for a new adventure. I am a little sad, because I miss her and because I feel older. I'm stressed out because I want the best for her and she will have to work hard to make new friends and find her place. I worry for her safety. I pray that she makes good choices.

I found a therapist whose caring and genuine connection helped me to overcome some of the most detrimental limitation of my social anxiety, allowing me to begin enjoying shared activities that are proving essential to my continued well-being.

This year was a relatively quiet one. The kids are getting older and I have spent some time practicing letting them go. Remembering that I need to empower them to fix their own stuff and to ask before swooping in to make it better.... Bob and I have been going out on Friday nights for an after work drink and that has also been a nice new thing. It's something I enjoy. In terms of a significant experience, the Rabbi of our temple abruptly quit a few weeks ago -although in retrospect his leaving has been some time in coming. The events leading up to and surrounding this event have really tested my resolve about humanity. I am so disappointed, angry and disgusted in the behavior of my fellow-congregants. What a pack of whiners. I also celebrated a year where I managed to get into two big fights with two of my closest/oldest friends. The fight with the closest friend has really made me rethink my entire relationship with her and I just don't know if (for better or worse) I will ever want to be or be close with her again. After years of not contemplating who she is as a person, I have started and I have to say, I don't much like the person I am (re?) discovering. I can only suppose that the feeling is mutual? The other fight was surprising but less significant I guess. But in the end, I worry - can't I get along with anyone? Do I want to be this bitter? This judgmental? So to summarize - this has been a year where I have been really in touch with my ability to be resentful. This is not who I want to be.

There has not really been a "material" significant experience in the past year. However, overall it has been a tough year. I do feel that the worst part has gone and from now on, things will start to lighten up. Relieved that its over but also grateful for the experience that helped me to grow stronger. I teached a course at the university, it was actually my very first time actually conducting a course! I literally suffered at days and wow, it was such a challenge, fear of speaking in front of a crowd and you re in a room with over 100 students, but I managed it! Thats a score on my success sheet :) Then came the times of "feeling stuck" trying to find a suitable job abroad, doing basicly nothing and feeling isolated. This however helped me rediscover myself, my TCK experience. I have the feeling and I am hoping that I will do a lot more this year regarding issues relating to TCK's. Those "blocked" times inspired me to accept the TCK experience in my life. Again, i am grateful that I had the opportunity to be nrought up ad a TCK.

This year I graduated college and moved to the bay area in northern California to start my career. After months of searching for and applying to so many places, I feel accomplished to know that I achieved what I dreamed of since my senior year of college. Every once in a while, while I am working or hanging out or driving my car, I will be randomly reminded where I am, and how I got here, and I will stop what I am doing and let it sink in.

In the spring, I found myself alone with both of my boys at the playground at Petco Park. I enjoyed myself. It marks the first memory I have of being alone with the two of them, away from home, and enjoying.

Dealing with my Dad's psychopathic atty after his death last summer. I am appalled, disgusted, angry. Trip I planned and paid for with "friend" who became contrary, controlling, inconsiderate, unconcerned and backed out the last minute. Vacation money down the drain. Disgusted and repelled. I feel it isn't healthy for me to stay in this relationship/"friendship". Best to have no more contact. "When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time" -Maya Angelou I am grateful to have a place to live, indoor plumbing, semi-climate control, and maintaining my health as best I can under the circumstances. I am grateful for sweet Winnie and Walter. For my therapist. For the beautiful day. That my car is working.

I visited a good friend whose husband died suddenly at a pretty young age. I was really happy to connect with her and it made me realize how significant his death was to me personally--not really losing a friend but just the suddenness of death, how none of us can bide our time here on earth, time is so short so short.

In the last year our family tried a new school. It was a wonderful opportunity but we decided to return to their old schools after a month. I am really grateful that we had this chance to try something new but also return to our past schools.

I have crossed some major hurdles in school, somethings I never thought I could achieve. I am very relieved and inspired to continue my studies.

My son (my only child) started college. I have at one stroke completed the job of raising my son so he can go on his own while my wife and I find ourselves alone at home after 19 years of living with him. We're finding that there is more to say at the end of the day, there is more silence and peace in the house to enjoy. There is also an emptiness and some of the busy-ness and chatter and clutter that was generated by my son is greatly missed. I'm incredibly grateful. My son was not a good fit for a typical high school -- some of it was that he was too serious, too smart, too creative for the standard high school experience. We found a way for him to get through without compromising and now he is at RISD which is absolutely perfect for him. Grateful, relieved and excited for him. It is so great to have him embarking on this new phase of his life. I'm so optimistic and hopeful for him. It is indeed inspiring. It makes me think about whether that same kind of renewal and growth is still available to me and I do believe it is.

The year I finally got signed! In January I signed on with Jess, my first real film and tv agent and I am SO grateful. Every audition is truly a gift, and every character I've got to play has been a beautiful exploration of 'who am I? who would I be?' I feel tougher because of these roles. I love playing these bad-ass bitches who joke with the men in their life but are also total objects of desire. And I'm so grateful to get to explore these characters. And to be a part of the this amazing community of artists and storytellers and outlaws and dreamers. I wouldn't have it any other way.

I was able to experience Tulum, Mexico, which was an amazing experience. It was so sustainable and naturally organic and beautiful. It inspired me to live a healthier lifestyle.

I made my first short film this year and I hated it so much. I'm angry just thinking about it. I went through trouble and money and a range of emotion I could not quite handle. I spent the last two months of my senior year of college in a stressed-out tizzy and I regret that, but I do not regret the experience, not really, because I learned something valuable: I want to be a writer, straightforward and solitary. Not a writer slash something. I want to be a writer, which means I have to get really good at writing so I don't have to do the other things I hate. I don't want to direct. I don't want to produce. I want to sit in an office 7 hours a day and make shit up.

My grandfather died in July. He was 95 and had been blessed with a long and mostly healthy life. I did all the organizing for his funeral service, which made me think about a lot of things. First, that I personally have no heirs, and will have no one to do that for me. Second, that my grandfather, despite many career accomplishments, always returned to his WWII experience as the most central. That makes me think a lot about how what sticks with us is not individual achievement, but what we accomplish with others. What we participate in that is larger than ourselves. And that, I think, is a lesson that anyone can take into any stage of their lives.

We put our house on the market. It has forced me to face my own patience. Right now, I am coping with it, as we have been on the market for 3 months without a lot of interest, despite efforts on our part to reduce the price and renovate. I have never done this before--wait to be judged, get judged, get rejected, and start the whole home showing process all over again. It gets tiring and I think I'm just tired of dealing with it. I am trying to pray daily for God's wisdom and for Him to help me find my patience and faith in Him to bring us to our new house (one which we had a contract on, but could not buy in August, since we still had ours to unload).

I met my current girlfriend. It resulted in a large push to move to another state and caused me to meet a lot of new and awesome people. The end result has been unimaginably positive. I am incredibly grateful.

I got married!!! (Or, "Dear reader, I married her.") And I'm finally getting the opportunity to talk about it with myself, since I've pretty much given up on journaling. Thank you 10Q!! My wedding day was the best day of my life so far. It was perfect. It was beautiful. I was surrounded by friends and family and I absolutely floated throughout the whole day, right beside my new wife. (And after the 6 month high stress down to the day before planning period-after this, planning any single event is piece.of.cake.) The whole experience really just reminded me how much love I have in my life. My entire family was 100% behind me and supportive in every way possible: my mom flying up for tastings and dress fits, my sister in law donating her children for the ceremony and gifting me with a fabulous wedding photo booth; my dad, who started crying when I told him and didn't stop till the ceremony ended; my nieces, the best flower girl and bridesmaid in history; my aunt who would not quit sending gifts & who loaned us her timeshare for the honeymoon; and my baby brother, who ROCKED his officiant duties and almost had me burst into tears at the altar as he read the inspirational, about-family quote for us. I'm sad that it's over, after all the crazy planning, because I could live in the happiness that a wedding brings, every day of my life. And that's just what I'm striving to do, now. I am inspired by all the love to try to be a better friend, daughter, sister, tia, and wife. I feel like the luckiest woman alive, and am so grateful for everyone sharing this life with me.

Visited Israel for the first time and definitely changed me. It inspired me to get closer to Judaism and to figure out my identity.

At the beginning of May this year, I was laid off from my job. I've been unemployed since, and it's been frustrating and difficult and unpleasant and also possibly the best thing that's happened to me this year. It was a kickstart to get my finances and money habits in order; it was the impetus to get married to my amazing and lovely wife; it was a wakeup call on my career and choices in my life; and I am still, when I think about it, angry and disappointed and frustrated and sad. The length of Unemployment Insurance this year is six months. The average unemployment length for a person in my industry is 9 months. So I'm worried and angry and anxious. But I'm still glad it happened. Because my life right now is most likely better than it would have been.

My Mother died six months ago. I was her primary family contact over the last fifteen months of her life, relocating her to an assisted living facility near my home, taking her to doctors appointments, attempting to make her life comfortable. I was first resentful of the time and attention it required. The unpredictable nature of her decline left me afraid to apply for new jobs lest I lose my flexibility. I resented her refusal to access her condition accurately, never discussing any options and insisting that she was perfectly fine. I resented that she didn't see me or my challenges... Six months after she arrived she had a stroke and become a different person, no longer my Mother but herself, Cathy, a women facing diminished capacity in every way. With little care for what others thought, she faced each day with sly wit and equal shares of delusion and determination. I was relieved. I could accept this woman more readily than the mother whose approval I sought. Her decline continued for nine long months, oddly, the time it takes for us to be born. Odder still since she had been for many years an obstetrics nurse. When she finally died I was relieved. Relieved that I could return my focus to myself and my youngest child. Relieved not to think for awhile about darkness and death. I ran away from my feelings and felt numb for awhile. The truth is I sought my Mother's approval but never offered mine until she had her stroke. I had wanted her to change and boy did she! I wish I had accepted her more before. I am grateful for the time I had with her, so proud of how she participated in life until the end, how she fought for what she wanted, how she loved her family. She gave me life, taught me how to walk and read, to love and care for my children and finally, how to die. This is the eulogy I never gave her, my Mother, Catherine, who has so inspired me.

I was invited to participate in the Chevra Kadisha. This was not an easy task to agree to. I have had a deep fear of death since childhood. I did not want to participate, but realized it was the exactly correct thing for me to do, both for the community and myself. I am so grateful to have participated. I was inspired, moved and deeply touched.

I got married. It was very significant, first because it's amazing to be married to the love of my life. But also because it's amazing that it's legal, now. I am very grateful.

I feel like everything SUPER significant I can think of happened just over a year ago. It lead me to so so much heartbreak, struggles, experiences, lows & highs, friends, career changes, new houses, and realizations. I think the last year for me has really been about a million little pieces coming together. Me realizing who I want in my life & who I don't, where I want to be, what I want to do, how I want to live. I guess my answer would be to finally realize that I don't want to work 24/7. I wanted success so incredibly badly that I have been giving up my happiness for it, telling myself that it would pay off in the long run. And right now, I am at a breaking point. It's not worth it to me anymore. I want to do my own thing and be my own boss and make my own brand and do what I am good at and what I LOVE. I know how capable I am and I am so fucking sick of being shut out by good jobs at companies because I didn't got to an expensive school or get a job at a start up right upon graduation. I am SO SICK of trying to fit into societies norms and not being able to, and then feeling incompetent because I can't do it when I know how competent I truly am. I want to define myself and my happiness. I want to be outside. I want to be a good friend. I want to see the world. I want to show people what I see. And that is what I will do :)

I was told yesterday that I likely cannot get pregnant with my own eggs. I was shocked. I am in perfect health, "young" for my age at 42, and almost everyone I know with kids had their first between the ages of 38-45. The doctor said I just don't hear about the ones that can't get pregnant at that age, and it has nothing to do with health. I now see myself in that "other" category. I feel guilty that I waited so long, like maybe I was being selfish all these years. I feel defeated by age, something I've never felt before. I feel obsolete. I feel sad that I can't give this gift to my partner who is ever-supportive, or to my parents or his parents or any of our families. I have thought from time to time that I might be relieved if I received news like this, because I've vacillated for so long on whether or not I wanted a child. And now I know. We have more consults to go through, decisions to make, and we still hold out hope that we'll be lucky despite this news. But it feels like a small death.

I spent this past year as a full-time student, which I have not done since I was 18 years old. I did not have a part-time job or do any other extracurricular activities other than my nursing program. It felt weird and may have given me too much "free time," although at the time it didn't feel that way. I'm grateful that I did not have to work to pay rent while I was in this program and relieved that my debt is only $50,000; it could have been much more. I'm not resentful at all, although there were times while I was in this program that I felt isolated and lonely, from a friendship perspective. I'm inspired to get out of school and go be a nurse!

A friend of mine is going through a messy divorce after years of abuse. Yet, she has a good attitude and is always an inspiration

Our daughter-in-law was killed in July, leaving our family in shock and disarray. Sudden death! I still can't believe it. Some initial over-reaction to how to help our grandson, which has faded and in place there is a sense that he will be OK and so will we as his loving grandparents. I am shocked, still don't believe it. Sad that she left too early. Sad and concerned for my son and grandson. Grateful my husband and I can bee here for each other and for them. It is a wake-up call to be more mindful and enjoy my life in the moment!

I finally made the decision that I would move across the country to try and live my dreams out. It was a lot of stress and it took a lot of work, but the turn out was better than expected. I do wish I had been more patient, as I could have found a better job before leaving home, but I have grown and changed for the better since moving. I am inspired while living here, I find I'm at peace and happier. There are some stresses with moving so far away from everyone, but I'm working through them and in the end - it's way better for me to be here!

My last pregnancy and the birth of my son was one of the most difficult experiences I have gone through. I would do it again in a heartbeat if it meant I would end up with this perfect baby again, but I now know I will never have to do it again!

I got married. It's been challenging and rewarding. I'm of course grateful to have begun sharing my life with someone who I care so deeply for and who cares for me in return. His job requires us to move around the country, and being married has changed how I feel about where I want to spend my life and what say I have in the matter. I am able to be more assertive but still know I can't ask him to give up the pursuit of his dreams. This is also the closest I've ever been to someone in my life. How this changes a relationship surprises me still sometimes. The guards I let down and sacrifices I'm willing to make are at a whole different level.

I got involved in a project that meant a lot to me. In my enthusiasm and desire to see it happened, I ignored certain clear it turned out that my partner was mentally unstable. Had to give up the project after a number of people invested in it and had faith in my idea. I am still grieving it, relieved to be away from the partner, and feeling guilty that so many people invested in something that failed. This was a first for me. I wish I could do something to make it up to them. I am also determined to make a beautiful piece of work on this subject in some other way

A significant experience that has happened? Curiously not necessarily to me? The most significant experience I had was losing my friend Sharon Mooney, who died of cancer in July. I mean losing in terms of the her incarnated presence no longer being available to me, but that could be her whispering in my ear. I miss a friend with whom I resonated so easily and yet deeply. I miss her insight, humor, point of view, energy, presence. We connected and I miss that connection. I am not grateful by any means, I wish she was here though I admire the host of friends who hung in there with her. I am only relieved that she is not in pain or anxiety. I am not resentful and yes she is and was an inspiration and remains one.

I got married a couple of weeks ago, which was pretty significant. I feel joyous, relieved, overwhelmed, and sometimes nervous. I know I'm with the right person, but there's so much pressure to have a perfect life and marriage and I'm trying not to let that get to me and just appreciate where I am.

There have been many "significant" experiences this year. In fact, I could argue that MOST experiences are significant. I suppose this comes with the territory of being the consummate optimist. When you indulge yourself in as many senses as is possible for every experience, maybe you could understand (perhaps I'm a megalomaniac?). Gun to my head -- three experiences this year that have and will continue to shape my human experience. 1- In February I moved to a beautiful house boat in the Puget Sound - view of the Sound with the sun setting behind the Olympic mountains. Christ. It has made my wildest bachelor dreams come true as well as enhanced and inspired my creative process. 2- I met a woman of my dreams who unfortunately doesn't look like the woman of my dreams. I continue to struggle with the latter part daily. Am I being shallow? Do I deserve better? Does such a wonderful woman deserve better? I'm confused. It's early and I haven't experienced a real committed love in so long (and the wonders and the consequences that follow) that maybe I'm just getting cold feet? Either way, it's been both stressful and incredibly rewarding. 3- I hurt my back and subsequently was sent to physical therapy. During my sessions, I realized that I both love exercise and have an equal disdain for contemporary big pharma driven medicine. Physical therapy is the opposite. Preventative medicine! What a concept. My engineering background, general love of people and aforementioned optimism (I think) makes me a perfect candidate for a doctorate of physical therapy. I FINALLY FIGURED OUT WHAT I WANT TO DO WHEN I GROW UP! SEMINAL MOMENT. HURRAH!

We sold our house where we lived for 8 years. My kids were born there. It was the first house we owned. I felt inspired about infinite possibilities that exists in this world.

A commercial I directed won a regional Emmy Award. I feel that this proves I am good at what I do but for some reason I am not able to get beyond the place I am at. The company I am working with pays very little and I am constantly struggling to pay the bills. I want to move to a new level of success. I want to be financially rewarded for my ideas and efforts.

My wedding. Our wedding was a huge affair, all done by ourselves and with the help of countless family and friends. The months and weeks leading up to it were very stressful at times, but also fun. Every detail was personal and intimate. All the effort that went into was completely worth it. The day of the wedding, seeing everything come together, was amazing. To be surrounded by so many friends and family and their love - helping us to celebrate this new chapter of our lives. It was the most incredible day of my life. Afterward I felt happy, a sense of relief, and also a bit sad that it is over. There is a let-down period I think after all the excitement has ended. In the months since our wedding both my husband and I realized that there were life goals awe had been neglecting because we were so busy with the wedding. Things we want to do, places we want to go, to make sure we live fulfilling and purposeful lives. That is tough. But, the exciting part is that now we will be navigating these questions & challenges together, and learning and growing together. For that, I am grateful.

I was able to spend a week travelling abroad, alone. I was quite surprised at how lonely the experience was and how different travel is without a sharing the experience with a loved one. It was rather nice going about my own pace, seeing only the things that I wanted to see. I am grateful for the experience. I was overwhelmed by how lonely I felt. I appreciated my usual travel partner much, much more! Sharing an experience with a friend or partner is so valuable, granted, I enjoyed meeting new people, having dinner with strangers, and wandering about by myself but, the significance of creating memories with a loved one is so much greater!

My mother passed away in her sleep 5 1/2 weeks ago. I was the one who found her and I didn't want to believe it was happening. We had a good relationship and we were always goofing around. In my heart I knew she was gone but my mind didn't want to go there too. I'm still feeling like I haven't fully let down to grieve. I am so grateful she didn't suffer. She was adamant about not ending up in a hospital or being taken care of by someone. She was very independent and lived on her own. I don't believe I'm resentful. I felt honored that I had the duty of taking care of business, contacting family etc. I had many years (13) of daily contact. We mended all the broken fences.We talked,laughed,kissed and hugged and I'm so happy for that. Am I inspired? Yes, by her. She had a lot of crappy stuff happen to her but she never showed it. She did her job as our Mom, producing a pack (8) of great people, she was a humanitarian, generous to a fault. Way ahead of her time in her thinking and she was always willing to change her views if your argument was good enough. I LOVED HER

Got job offer on contingency of funding..still not sure if funding will happen or if I have a job. I am anxious and scared

My team at work has been totally turned on its head. I am so relieved and grateful to have some of the toxic, difficult to work with people gone, and so grateful to have an unbelievably awesome new colleague, but devastated not to have my friend and moral compass here with me on a daily basis. My new awesome colleague makes me want to be a better professional. My new sweet but incompetent new colleague makes me feel exhausted and frustrated.

I had a child. I have been both resentful and greatful. I'm thrilled to have a healthy child, but terrified something is going to go wrong. I see the joy and the light and it has only made me more terrified of the dark. I have to protect him now, I'm no longer just responsible for myself.

My husband had an affair. It has, unexpectedly, strengthened our marriage and made me understand how much I believe in marriage. So I am hopeful and more directed than I have been in years.

I learned how to teach English on Skype at the age of 65 years old. I met students from all over Europe, Russia, Turkey, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Italy, Poland, Austria, Switzerland and Estonia! I took a fabulous on line course during the summer for teachers teaching on line and learned many new things and met many interesting and innovative young teachers! I am so grateful that I have al ways found ways to work and to keep my mind young by learning. I learned again and again that 'when the student is ready, the teacher will be there.' Life is beautiful and Peace will be established only through educating and engaging with others and sharing new ideas. I am always immensely inspired by my students.

I experienced a spiritual experience when the man in the hospital room next to mine passed away. My room was illumined at 3:02 AM and I heard chimes and angels singing. I asked God to let me hear more, but it slowly dissipated and eventually the room got dark again. The next morning I asked an orderly what happened to the man in the adjoining room. He said, "I had to move him last night." I asked, "Did he die?" The orderly replied, "All I can tell you is that I had to move him." It was powerful and I am very grateful, and inspired, and assured!

I bought a home - it has been amazing - lots of work, but seeing the transformation, making it my own, and being able to welcome others into it has been really satisfying. I've done most of the work myself which has given me a lot of pride, and had the support of amazing family and friends to help me when I felt indecisive and overwhelmed. It's given me a better sense of perspective on things and a focus that I didn't have before. I feel more grown-up now in a lot of ways.

Lost my uncle, who stepped up after my father died and took his place. 2 weeks later my old brother left too. I feel empty an gut punched. Both without feeling and in pain.

In the last year my daughter started to talk. After the first year of taking care of her, and bonding through hugs and one-sided conversations now she tells us things. She can tell us what she wants and what she feels. It's amazing to start hearing what she has to say. I remember in the movie American Beauty where Kevin Spacey talks about how your kids become the most interesting people you know. That rings true. It also makes me reconsider my relationship with my parents, and how important it is to keep talking to the people you love.

This summer, I traveled across the Western US singing with congregations and faith communities across the country. While the journey itself was cathartic, challenging, etc., one night stuck out as different from the rest. In Santa Fe, NM, I played at an open mic night, which is not something I do very often. The people in the restaurant seemed to really like my set, and the person who was running the event asked me to sing a fourth song. I was the only person he asked to do so. This was a quite empowering experience for me, as I had always assumed that my success as a songleader came mostly from my persona in that role. Here I was in a different role, and my musicianship was the vehicle to a successful performance. It had been a while since I'd felt like that was the case (or at least since I'd felt it was the primary reason for success). This evening opened my eyes to the possibility that I could be doing more, and really "entertaining," as opposed to my normal goal of "engaging."

After being in a relationship for 4 1/2 years and asking my partner to buy a house with me for 3 years, I bought on my own. I just feel so sad, so disappointed, so lost. I have no idea what next as we live together in a rented flat! At 48 I'm just too old for all this! Where did it all go wrong?

My uncle's unexpected passing. It was devastating news. My uncle struggled with drugs and alcohol most of his life but before his passing, he was trying to better himself. Despite his struggle with drugs, he was a good, caring and kind hearted man. He was the most honest person I've ever known, didn't care what people thought of him, he was real with you no matter what. I admired him for that. He always made me laugh when he would talk about his life or even about the times he would get in trouble with the law. He was a warrior and I'm sure will continue to be. I will never forget him. I know one day we will meet again Tio. I love you. This has taught me to always remember not to take anything for granted, tomorrow is never guaranteed. Live today like it's your last day on earth, be kind, grateful, happy, love & spend more time with the people that matter to you.

I bought a house! I'm terrified, ecstatic and relieved at the same time. I'm still a bit wary of the neighborhood, but I love having a yard and a place to call home. It's so much nicer than living in apartments. The mortgage/insurance payments are less than my rent was, but the other expenses such as gardeners, pest control, alarms, and more are adding up very quickly!

My new son learned to go to sleep on his own, and generally sleeps through the night. If he does wake up, we go in and help him find his water, pacifier and blanket, or stroke his head and leave. He often sleeps 12 - 12.5 hours a night, and a 2 hour nap in the afternoon. It has changed our life entirely. There is so much less stress. My heart has finally stopped dropping when I hear him wake up, and he is in much better spirits. We started helping him learn to go to sleep on his own around this time last year, but it took until January for him to really figure it out and sleep through the night, and then in April he started taking just one nap a day, which also helped us be able to leave the house. It was also very vindicating because when I told my husband that I wanted him to have an early bedtime and do sleep training, he said it wouldn't work and was very grumpy and dismissive. Now he fully admits how wonderful it is to have a baby who sleeps well. It also makes me feel differently about having another child, more confident, though that could be entirely different. Also, my son became a real person - mobile, vociferous and curious. He also stopped breastfeeding, of both of our accords, but mainly his. I have my body back, and a new beloved personality to contend with. I also went to graduate school this summer, and re-opened my non-mom brain, which was challenging and fun and hard and rewarding, and felt really important and good.

My partner and I were in the process of having a house built when we noticed a wall brace was missing. We approached the builder and they told us we were being too picky. The builder then proceeded to cancel our contract stating they felt they could not build a house to our satisfaction. At first I held a lot of resentment over how much time and effort we put into the build thus far. However, it was for the best because we found another builder that is so much better than the first. I thank God for his intervention even though at the time I was upset.

I graduated from college this year! I have been on this educational journey for 30 years. I have four children who were able to watch me go through the process and who were great support. I am very grateful that I had the support to get through school. I have coins the completion of this chapter in my life to be sad. I should be happy but I feel less somehow. I liked being a part of something and now I feel at drift. I am trying to grow as an artist and grow an art business but I feel sacked by depression which hinders my energy and confidence. My relationship with my husband has been very stressful over the last three years. This stress and the emotional bullying I feel from him adds to this depression. I want to feel inspiration and joy from this achievement. I want to be able to let things that are hurtful or stressful move on. I want my life to find renewal.

My health has not gotten better and in some ways, it is worse. It is significant because it has meant even less mobility for me -- something I'm still not used to and often resent. My reseentment is personal and not directed at anyone or thing. It's that I can't do what I'd always done and that I didn't expect to age badly. (Do all Boomers say that?!) I expected and wanted to work until, like my grandfather, of blessed memory, I dropped dead on my lunch hour which I thought would be many years from now. It has inspired me to become again active in the issues of disability accommodation and rights. I'm pretty darn angry at the lack of accommodation and the lack of empathy in this area (among many others), the problems with building and stores and restaurants and hotel designs. I'm angry about TSA and the pre-check program and people with disabilities. I am trying to take that anger into helping others become more aware, empathetic, and active around accommodation.

Having gained a lot of weight I have seen how it's affecting my health. I need foot and knee surgery and may have health problems with my bladder. I am disappointed with myself

I performed a Tahara for two friends. Pam was a fellow Chevra Kadisha member and the Juanita a woman I have known in other ways. Pam- it was a surprise. I had seen her just a week before- did note she didn't look well. Pam in her privacy did not allow us to be comforting. And that made all of us feel sad. I'll always be grateful for what she said during my mother's Tahara: gave her a chance to say good-bye to all the women in her family who perished in the Holocaust. Juanita- a stroke- at first hopeful and then no longer. I have to say her death made me angry. It just wasn't her time. Grateful that I was there to guide the both of then on the journey- and perhaps inspired too.

My fathers death at 99. Less of a tragic event than my mother because lived longer. Grateful that we had him such a long time. Value of a long life. The nephews riding bikes to the cemetery to honor his love of bicycles.

I decided to reduce the days I take care of my Mom from 5 days to four days - I now have Sat, Sun and Mon free - Mon is my day to spend as I choose - sometimes housework and knitting and reading and Pet Rescue Saga consume my day - sometimes brunching and antiquing and Goodwill claim my time - often I even grocery shop and cook dinner without pouting - time is truly our most precious possession, and having this day for my own is the best gift I could give myself - Sun evenings are now joyful, because I can contemplate freedom rather than begrudge the start of another work week - perhaps I should feel guilty about this attitude, but I'm enjoying myself too much to feel guilty!

I married off my last child. Actually , my two last children. I am a little Bit sad but grateful to ה׳ beyond words.

My daughter had her Bat Mitzvah. The time leading up to it was exciting, but the details around the party were a bore. I can't take much credit for the party and details as my wife did almost all of the planning. However, once the weekend arrived, I was so incredibly proud of my daughter, extremely emotional and grateful to have so many loved ones around us to help celebrate the weekend. My daughter was poised beyond her years and I really think it was a very meaningful experience for her as well. Although, you know teenagers....

I did AmeriCorps! This changed my perspective on everything. I became so much more relaxed in my own self and aware of what I wanted to do and what I was passionate about. I am so grateful, inspired, and guided from this experience and I do everything with more meaning.

We celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary -- all together with our children....and we were so grateful to have them; to see our children understanding and accepting each other; to know that whatever happens to us, they will be all right.

My youngest sister's (age 35) breast cancer diagnosis cast a shadow over the last year. We found out during Sukkot and it shocked us to our core. Her diagnosis and subsequent genetic testing also revealed that she is BRCA1 positive, resulting in multiple genetic tests throughout our large, extended family. My other sister, also BRCA1 positive, had a prophylactic double mastectomy and complete hysterectomy this summer. I am facing similar surgeries, and cannot wait to have them behind me. I am grateful that my sisters are both doing well, and that I have the opportunity to make hard decisions about my health AND the means to go forward with the surgeries. My general surgeon told me on Monday that I WILL GET BREAST CANCER. It's just a matter of when. Knowing that I can prevent it, albeit through a major surgery, is a source of relief for me. Knowing that having my ovaries and Fallopian tubes removed will greatly reduce my risk of ovarian cancer also provides a sense of relief. I am at peace with removing my breasts; however, removing my ovaries brings up so many emotions. I long for another child, and the oophorectomy is so FINAL. I know I'll need to reach out to my friends, family and community for support this year, which will be hard for me to do. However, it will be good practice.

Just one? I just got married after being single for close to 25 years (divorced that long = single)! Opening my life to the integration of another has been awesome/scary/fulfilling/frustrating...etc.etc.etc. I am always grateful, sometimes resentful but try to work through that and more often than not, very inspired.

I was shot in the ankle by a stranger about a month ago. The experience itself, though frightening, was not the worst thing that has ever happened to me. It has been my extended convalescence - being trapped in my house for six weeks (I hope) - that has really impacted me. I have felt everything. Resentful, angry, helpless, weak, desolate. I have had a lot of time to reflect, and though I know that I should use this time as a lesson in living with things outside of my control, it is difficult. It has, however, deepened my relationship with my partner. I have learned many things about his character that I had perhaps not known before.

I began and finished coach training. The training helped me look at many of the blocks in my life and release the energy that surrounded them. In addition I have started a forgiveness mantra. I forgive my dad, linda, chris, and I forgive myself. I am not sure where this is headed and that is ok. Letting go of the past hurts is significant, I am grateful for the opportunity to work on this in my life.

God healed my relationship with my husband and reunited my family.

Broke up with a close friend of mine. I'm pretty resentful of the fact that it got to that point - I think his actions were selfish and unfair, and that our relationship deserved more than that. I learned a lot about mixing friendship with work. I need to be a much better leader and be explicit with expectations - I show disappointment when someone doesn't live up to them, but sometimes I'm not clear on what I want to happen. That happened here, and our work issues moved into personal ones. I think I've learned from this :)

My daughter was able to graduate from college while Ken was still able to see it and understand her accomplishment. It meant so much to her to be able to show him that she finished, and to have a picture of them together with her in a cap and gown. Who knows if he will comprehend her graduation with her bachelors degree in a few more years.

I changed companies. Grateful, I feel appreciated. And energized. Inspired to be creative. My creativity can be used in merchandising. In training of my staff. In outreach to my customers. Encouragement to tell the story behind what I am selling.

It is almost the one year anniversary of my grandfather's death, and I've been thinking of if almost every day. It was not unexpected or tragic - he'd lived a long full life, but it has certainly changed the way the world around me feels. I didn't see him often, but I always could have . . . and now, I can't. I think I try to be kinder to people - more forgiving and loving and giving because of his example.

Spent really quality time with my 89 year old aunt and my daughter. It was profoundly illuminating in relation to my family of origin and appreciating my daughter. I'm so grateful it worked out for us to stay with her for a few days. It truly was inspiring that as she reaches the final years of her life she is still very actively engaged in the world and with the people around her.

Last November I was diagnosed with depression. My life has changed so drastically in the last year. My regular therapy and drug therapy have made such a positive impact in my life. I have learned to let go of negative influences in my life and appreciate the people who love me. It hasn't been easy at all and lots of negative energy has still been around, but I am so grateful for the opportunity to make changes in my life. I am learning that I am capable of making any change that I want to make in my life, and I don't need to wait for change to just happen to me.

The death of my Aunt Syl. The only person I have ever known/loved who never said a harsh word to me and was always loving and supportive. She taught me all I know about love and compassion. I will miss her forever.

My mom passed away this year. We were really close, and I spent a lot of time with her, taking her to appointments and events. I so miss her company and her personality and presence. I realize now how humble and sincere and loving and patient she was, especially with me. So understanding of and respectful of my overwhelming familly life, she never wanted to impose herself on us, but we treasured her company and her love. I know she was tired in her final years, and sad at losing so many close friends. Now she is gone, and I'm so grateful that she stuck around for as long as she did, and for the love she gave us.

My 18 year old son left home to live with his girlfriend. At first, I was angry and trying everything I could think of to talk him out of it. But then, I realized how much he wanted to do it and I took a step back. I told myself to trust that everything would work out for him. So far, he's been fine. And I really respect that he is making it on his own. I am also relieved that he and the tension the situation caused are gone from the house. Life is easier without kids! But I really love him and want to maintain our relationship. So it will be interesting to see where we are this time next year.

Within the past year I've become very much close to a friend named Catherine. She's a person who is always down to have a good time, does not judge, taught me a lot about not caring what other people think, taught me how to vocalize problems in relationships in a way that both addresses the problem and also builds to the trust within that relationship. Most importantly she's been a pretty strong force in learning to be happy. I thin this has changed the very foundation of the person I am. My values have shifted. I've learned to focus on myself and the things that make me happy. I'm so incredibly happy that she has come into my life, and truly feel blessed to have her so closely in my life.

My boyfriend, his daughter and I moved into a new-to-all-of-us home this year. It is our first time living together. Even on the shitty days I am grateful and happy that we are all under one roof. The he and I share the same bed each night. We argue over more things. I am learning that I am much more particular and filled with expectations that I didn't know were there. I worry more. I love him and my stepdaughter and my thoughts fly from one moment thinking about being old together and the next about my fear that he'll decide he is done with me. I've been having a hard time emotionally though I think that this is also related to my hormonal birth control. These past couple of weeks I can hardly tell which thoughts I trust.

I got hired for my first every salary job. I'm grateful every single day for it. I'm making pennies and dimes but I get to travel and be around the sport I love. While I am often underpaid and overworked, I still love what I get to do and feel so lucky to not be working a placeholder job. This is my first step on the stepping stones of my career.

I left my job without having a secure position or way to consistently make money. Within 2 months I had found a well paying part time job that also allows me the flexibility to work from home a few days a week, pickup my kids from school, and, on the days I do go into the office, took an hour off of my commute. I'm not bringing in as much money but I have more TIME; there are ways to get more money - once time is gone, you can't get it back. Over the next year I'm hoping to use some of this additional time to get the ball rolling on a project of my own that I'm hoping will grow into something awesome.

My younger sister got married. With just a few weeks notice we were able to pull together an occasion that my sister will remember for always. I was happy for her and it reinforced that Happy is defined by the individual.

We bought land and then a house! SO grateful and relieved. We are finally setting roots and making a life of our own. Gone are the fears of homelessness and feeling lost. Now, we start a new chapter and choose how we want to live.

Lost, and am losing, weight. Grateful, relieved, want to keep it off; I've done it before-- 3-4 times. Want to be there for my grandson's college graduation IY'H. He's 9. Happy to be wearing skinny chinos to teach and live. Not going to gym. Hate going to gym. Still paying for gym membership. Very strange. Doing South Beach Diet. No carbs; lots of meat & veggies. Cheese OK. Very odd way to live, but it's the best diet I've ever been on, and I've tried them all-- well, Weight Watchers, at least. Want to keep it off! 25 lbs. so far-- more than my dog weighs. Doing it with my wife.

Began my life coach training at Martha Beck, Inc. exactly one year ago, yesterday. It gave me a lot more gray hair, and it enabled me to totally change for the better my most important relationships: my wife, my daughter, my Self, and with everyone else in my life. It gave me a new career, one that satisfies me at the soul level. It gave me a new way of showing up in the world, one that is more authentically me and much more compassionate. It has given me tools to use in my own life when times are stressful, and it has given me a way of helping people that brings me joy.

i broke my collar bone. i was shook. physically at first, but my mental integrity took a jolt as well. yearning to be "well" again. sulking in self resentment and pity. searching for help or assistance. how could i allow myself to injure my body again? disappointed in myself. grateful? in a way. that experience really put my mortality and fragility into perspective. relieved? now that i am healed i can certainly say, yes. i am relieved. and at the time, yeah, i could say it was relieving taking a momentary hiatus from the usual grind. the constant entertaining and pandering to clients. the day-to-day challenge of helping betters others abilities and putting my personal pursuits on the back burner. yeah, it was relieving. i felt, the disconnect from my normal work life was a relief. resentful? some what. i had told myself i would never get hurt like that again. and during the healing process, the reasoning i had to support and justify my injury as to being self inflicted and deserving of a period of introspection and self discovery instilled a feeling of resentment. inspired? most definitely. inspired to strive for the highest achievement within the range of possibility. the scope of reason. of logic. to respect my limitations in my pursuit. but to strive and thrive nonetheless.

A few significant experiences come to mind and they're each significant for different reasons. I went to Mexico and scuba dived for the first time, which was surreal. Ryan and I took an epic late night road trip to Philadelphia so I could meet Raven, my absolute favorite. But probably the most significant experience, because it was so all-encompassing, was that year I completed a Masters program, which I still can't really believe. It happened so quickly and was so difficult that it's hard to grasp that it was real. I'm really proud of myself for doing it, since it was really challenging, especially since I was still working. I'm not sure how I managed to do it all and sometimes I think maybe I didn't get as much out of it as I could have because my attention was split between my main job, my work as a TA, and being a student. However, I did it and that can't be taken away from me!

My youngest son has been diagnosed with significant developmental delays. I'm deeply saddened by this.

The most significant thing to happen in my life this year is the pregnancy of my wife. As of the beginning of April, I have had to think differently about health, housing, finances, family, transportation, food, free time and the future. I am grateful for this change in perspective, but also resentful of the way the world operates at the moment. I don't want to have to worry about the resources my child will have at her/his disposal: will there be air to breathe? will there be water to drink? will technology create isolation or a larger community? At the same time, I marvel at all of the advances that he/she will see in the next 75 years. Of course billions of parents before me have already dealt with these thoughts, but knowing that others struggle with these things and actually struggling with these things myself are two very different things.

I allowed myself to be angry at my mother. She behaved badly and I told her so. When I did I didn't back down, and I let her know that we might not be able to come to a common perspective on the conflict she was furious and still I let her know that it would have to be OK for us to see things differently. This was huge because in the past I'd be afraid to stand up for myself. I'd be worn down by her (and my Dad) telling me how badly I was treating them for saying I was angry or frustrated or just upset. I didn't this time. In addition, I let myself tell her I was not going to read her angry e-mails and that I loved her despite this. This was hard -- really hard. I'm 45 and I felt like I was responsible for her unhappiness. Still, it was liberating to set limits. To be honest with and to myself was a gift. I am now trying to accept that I am not responsible for Mom's emotions, and that hers is not the only perspective that counts when it comes to our interactions.

I have spent the past year unsuccessfully trying to get a job. So perhaps a significant experience was when I actually got an interview for a job I thought I had a good chance of getting (I've had one other interview but knew I wouldn't get that). It went well, it seemed, but I was clearly not the best candidate as I didn't get the job, which was massively depressing and made me feel I have no future.

Moving to Miami, to pursue my dreams in the field of public health. To continue to grow as an individual and become more independent. Beginning my masters program is the most important change in my life.

A significant experience from the past year was my aunt's death and subsequent family gathering. It was the first time in a very long time (or ever, maybe) that I felt like we were all part of the same family. My sister and I weren't like the Poor Cousins or the Underachievers. We had things in common with our cousins and had a great time at the Irish Wake.

My daughter has moved to my hometown in another state to go to the University. It turns out, she lives about a mile from my childhood home, and is working in the mall where I worked while in high school. She is living with her boyfriend, newly discharged from the US Army. Feel kinda funny about that, but she wouldn't have gone otherwise. I'm proud. I miss her. I'm so excited for her. I'm kind of jealous, cause I'd like to go home again, but G-d knows I wouldn't want to be 20 again! I'm relieved - she will be safe there and safe with him.

I left a very intense job with a very elite company that I had held for nine years. I found that after the birth of my son, the corporate world was not at all amenable to me needing a more flexible schedule - even though I continued to work 60 hour work weeks just as off hours. I also discovered that trying to get a new job as a new mother was equally difficult and very disappointing. The bias against working mothers is real and so deeply ingrained in corporate culture, that people don't even know they are discriminating against them. Coming up against money concerns, I took a job at one third of the pay at a local non-profit where the people are well-meaning, but a mess. In addition to all the wonderful things motherhood has taught me, I've also learned that American corporate culture hates working moms, and so many talented people are overlooked (at best) or spurned (at worst) in the process. There has to be a better way of doing this.

One of the most significant events from this past year was my beautiful, brilliant and loving 23-year old daughter's acknowledgement that she suffers from depression and addiction to alcohol and drugs. This occurred about 6 months ago, in April 2014. It was a shock to me, but it certainly explained a lot of behavior from the past few years. I am grateful that she came to her dad and I for help with the problem, and that she has been open to medication, rehab, therapy and conversation about the problem. I have many other emotions, including but certainly not limited to sadness, embarrassment, and frustration. I am inspired by her desire to address her problems, as it has been & continues to be a significant challenge in all our lives. I've learned that It's a day by day journey through recovery that may never end.

I've started seriously writing my novel (though not at this moment -- at this moment I'm procrastinating!). It started with a seminar I took from David Hochman, where I was supposed to get all psyched about freelance writing. Instead, what it did was make me see that I only have so much time in my day, and I need to devote it to what truly matters. So, I asked myself, what truly matters? It turns out, this novel did. I started, as David suggested, writing 500 words a day, for an hour a day. Now I shoot for about 4,000 a week, which I sometimes make and sometimes don't. I'd love to finish a draft by the end of the calendar year, though more likely it'll be sometime in the spring. At the moment, I've got about 47K words written and estimate I'm about 1/3-1/2 done with the draft. If I have a finished draft at this time next year, I shall be properly ecstatic. I am grateful for this change. I am relieved, so relieved to be doing it. I am inspired every day by my own imagination (oy! but it's true). I feel good about myself because, word by word, it's happening.

My brother Don bought me a house with a garden in Newton Poppleford near to my daughter Carly and grandchildren. Instead of living in a busy town I'm living in a village close to nature and the seasons. Alreasdy I am so much healthier and incredibly happy. I've been here a few weeks and have dug a pond and painted 7 of the 10 fence panels in the garden.There are no words for how I feel about my brother loving me enough to want me to be truly happy and designing a life were I can be.

I graduated college and entered the labor market. I left behind a half ass committed lifestyle and daily schedule and reduced my time down to the business day or the extension of that 830 to 530 routine. It has had a tremendous effect on me socially and emotionally and professionally. Socially I narrowed down my circle of friends, eliminating acquaintences but also most of the spontaneity, and I greatly reduced my socializing activities and restricted it to Friday night through the weekend for the most part. Emotionally I have felt the deepest insecurities and self esteem issues about my capabilities as a worker and also my availability as a friend. However I also discovered my strength in dedication and devotion to something larger than me and how much pride I can take in work and how good it feels to measure up to its challenges. I continue to struggle with some low self esteem issues about being a good and successful enough adult who has accomplished enough... But for whom? That's the question I should ask myself more and Me and my community should be my answer. Not my ego and social pressures of external society. Professionally it has all been positive growth and it has been significant and deeply rooted growth that has constructed a strong foundation for me from which I will move forward to achieve my future career goals. I feel a mixture of hope and inspiration for the future and feelings of inadequacy linger on the periphery as well as a yearning to chuck it all and seize the reigns of freedom and leave behind all of my self willed obligations that I love very much at the end of it all

My second daughter was born 4 days ago. This means that the whole of 2014 was in anticipation of her birth. It affected me on multiple level, From the daily routine -- as in I spent more time with our first duaghter prepping her for school and picking her up --, through financing -- as in trying to save up some money so I wouldn't have to work that hard when the second one is born, to the self-reflective -- as in my responsibilities grew, I have to be more of an adult in that regard and have to work even smarter to create a better future not just for myself, but for my children too. I am grateful. We were blessed with a beautiful, healthy child, born under ideal circumstances, into a nurturing home in a safe part of the world. I am also relieved. We've been trying to get pregnant for a while and the fruit of our love is nothing less than exhilarating. We don't have to try again. (She is our last planned child.) Resentment never came into the picture. I sometimes think about how my life would be different without a second child. But no matter what answer I feel any moment I always know that it would be less rich. As far as inspiration goes she bring different kind of humor out of me, than the first child, who is now six. I joke with both, but differently. It may be a low level inspiration, but I enjoy it every day.

My oldest daughter got engaged. I have mixed emotions. I am really happy for her and he is a great guy. And she is also my little girl and I am afraid that everything is going to change.

In the past year I have, in a related series of events, lost former friends that I thought cared for me and "replaced" them with new friends; new friends that are genuine, non-judgemental, and wonderfully unique. This may sound trivial, but the former friends were people I previously interacted with on a daily basis, friends I shared deeply personal things with, that I laughed and cried with, and being suddenly cut off was a perplexing and painful experience. This was the first time since early childhood that I have had someone deliberately decide they did not want to be my friend anymore and for months I did not know how to react. It also caused me to reflect on my own actions from an objective standpoint and to see what I did that caused the change in our relationship. The friends that "divorced" me had an issue with the new friends that "replaced" them and while they said they had no issue with me and my husband maintaining a relationship with both parties, it is now clear that they wanted us to choose sides. I can see how it hurt them that we remained neutral instead of choosing them, and I accept responsibility for that. But, at the end of the day I am incredibly grateful for the new friends, who did not ask us to choose sides in this arguments, and who have enriched my life in so many ways. It has, hopefully, taught me to be more careful in my actions and my interpretations of others, to read more deeply into situations involving conflicts, to be a better communicator, and to celebrate and nurture the genuine relationships that I do have.

Last November my dad was diagnosed with ocular melanoma. He had to undergo surgery, radiation, and at this point, full body cancer scans every 6 months for the rest of his life. I was so, so very angry. And frankly devastated. I was enraged at the way he talked about all this happening as part of God's larger plan, and about how he felt held. I couldn't understand on what level something like that was supposed to be comforting to me, when it was so clear to me that his God didn't have room for acceptance of a queer like me. It made me angry. It shattered me. And it brought out a new and more honest side that allowed for better conversation. I was asked to come home for Thanksgiving; I told him how torn I was - how as much as I wanted to come home and be with family, I couldn't come if he expected me to leave who I was in the car. I needed to know that he was inviting ME home, not the idea of a person who doesn't really exist anymore anywhere other than in his and my mother's memory. We're not through that all the way yet. We're still having conversations. I don't know if we're moving forward, but I like to think we're getting clearer about who we are, what we believe, and what we need from each other in the world.

I attended the GOAL Academy. It was an amazing experience and I met some really great people who have become very close friends. I was so impressed by my colleagues, it reenergized my commitment to the NPS and made me realize that I need to find a new job - I need to stop camping and start climbing again. It also gave me my current crush that who was my obsession all summer - and continues to be so - despite the fact that I know it's a bad use of my time and my heart. ugh.

I decided to help my sister. She's a struggling musician/singer and has some mental illness issues. I thought it would be great if she stayed with me and my children. I am a single mother with a full time job. I am responsible for all my bills and my children. No one really helps me. I thought my sister might see how hard I work and take something from it./ Instead she has been slacking off on helping around the house. I understand depression because I sometimes suffer as well. I am resentful. I watch her spend her money on things that she may not need and she has racked up over $1000 debt to me. I have a lot of anger and I am upset. I feel that I have been taken advantage of and I have a hard time thinking that because she is family I have to help. I feel boundaries have been crossed, partially because I didn't set out a plan for her. I am ready to kick her out. Whenever I confront her, she gets very defensive so there's a major lack of communication. I didn't expect to have to raise a 3rd child, especially a 25 year old one!

Had to put down a beloved cat. Muse just kept on losing ground despite veterinary interventions and tlc. I never did understand, completely, why he got so sick and couldn't get better. It reminded me that some things are random and unknowable and that we are powerless in the face of them. The months of his illness and the moment when I knew I had to let him go are still very painful for me to think about. My only comfort is that I tried everything to save him and it was not meant to be.

I met my boyfriend and found out that he is polyamorous. I was afraid of it first, completely resenting the concept. I hated every time he went out with someone. Nine months into the relationship, I am still with him, loving him and caring about him. This new type of relationship is helping me test my limits and get to learn myself better. It helped foster a very meaningful supportive giving relationship with an amazing person.

I moved from huntington, NY to austin, TX. at first, I was devastated and sad to have left my family, friends, work. Gradually I noticed that we were having a much easier winter (one of the primary reasons we moved), and that life here is just generally sunnier. I'm grateful that I'm able to live comfortably without working. I'm enjoying meeting new people and the budding friendships that are forming. I'm happy that I can easily stay in touch with my new york friends. I feel a certain freedom to explore things I'm interested in with no over- arching goal. All in all, I have to say that it's been a good move. Not without challenges, but still good.

I completed my first year of University as a mature student. Up until I got my final grades I had uncertainty about whether I had what it took to excel in school. Once I had a whole year of university work behind me it became clear that getting my degree was not only something I *could* do, but that it was something that I *would* do.

I was hired and fired, basically in the same year doing a what I thought was a dream job. It took me months, but I am finally starting to realize that I never took the time to truly explore who I am and what I actually see myself doing. I am confused, relieved, depressed and now attempting to rediscover the 'lost' part of myself.

I was able to watch my mom give birth to my baby brother. I am so grateful that he is in my life.

I graduated from my Masters program and I do feel accomplished and glad I completed it. Also my grandmother passed away and I feel really sad about it still. I also feel upset that I didn't get a chance to spend as much time with her during the last year as I would have liked. Also, guilty and ashamed and regretful that I didn't call her enough during this last year as well.

I realized, resoundingly, that my stress within my adult relationship was impacting my children and I started to be mindful about gentleness with them. As a result, I am quieter - although very firm; I am a better listener, although I expect them to respect my decisions; I realize that relationships ebb and flow in their conflict but can still be consistently loving and supportive, even through stages. This has made me grateful that I caught this early while they are still young enough to benefit from this better dynamic and more open parent - as well as relieved and more peaceful when unexpected challenges arise.

I started meditating and exercising on a regular basis. I am feeling incredibly grateful that I've finally found a regular practice that is helping me be more centered, grounded and accepting of people. I am still angry at my loved ones sometimes because of the things that they do to hurt themselves (like addiction to substance/food) but I am hoping that I will be even more accepting and that I'll be able to let go of the feeling that I have to control people.

I am experiencing multiple sexual dysfunctions for the first time ever. Nothing has worked to restore my sexual self. It scares me, and I worry that I will never get back that part of myself.

I got married. It's an off feeling in that I never would have thought gay marriage would be legal. Marriage has changed me in so many ways. For the first time in my life I feel safe and secure knowing that there is someone who will always have my back. I now know what it is like to truly love someone else and watch that love grow daily.

Over the past 12 months, I've experienced a lot of change. From moving to NY and starting a new job, to losing contact with friends, while reconnecting with family members. But the most significant experience of the past year would be the passing of my grandmother. It’s funny, saying that she’s “passed”. I’m not even sure what that really means. I guess I should say that I “lost” my grandmother, because she’s not coming back! That is the reality… you lose someone and they’re never coming back. You’ll never experience the sound of their voice, the feel of their touch… you’re only left with the memory of them. Anywho, It's only been a little over a month since she's passed, but I feel as though for the first time in a while... I'm awake. When you lose a loved one, it’s a shock to your system and it puts things in perspective. I've tried processing this "awakening" that I'm experiencing, and I'm not sure whether it's a result of the loss, or something greater. I'd like to think that it's a part of something greater. That it’s the result of my awareness that life is fickle! That with each passing moment, each passing day, we have to be present and appreciate…life… because things change! I’m reminded of a quote from Maryanne Williamson that says “It is our light, not our darkness that frightens us most. We ask ourselves, “Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and famous?” Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. You’re playing small does not serve the world.” Such a beautiful quote and it speaks to the space that I’m currently in. Now that I’m “awake”, I guess that I don’t have an excuse to “play small”. It’ll be interesting to see where I’ll be in 365 days from now… and how my life changes... how I will change?!? That’s all that I have for today… Peace!

I have been unfaithful in my marriage and fallen in love with another man. I have grown resentful of my husband and inspired by the love with another man. It has affected me tremendously in the way I look at love.

I decided to move from California to Colorado. Basically to lower our cost of living (mortgage), also to live in a small city instead of a huge city. The moving van comes in 19 days.

I earned my MFA in Creative Writing in June. I've yet to officially "graduate" until I can pay off my tuition bill, but I've completed all of the coursework. The thing is, I haven't worked on my thesis since the day I graduated. I had this really incredible reading of my work, and it took me less than 24 hours to convince myself that all of the positive feedback that I got was just people being polite. I'm struggling with my sense of self right now, and wondering where my life goes from here. Now that I've finished this educational journey, I'm more frightened than ever that I'll never be able to live up to the ideal that I had in mind when I enrolled in the MFA program.

This year, I made the choice to move from teaching flying in flight simulators to teaching in aircraft out on the flight line. I find the work far more compelling, challenging, and rewarding. Though the days are longer and the conditions--especially in the summer--are less pleasant, instructing students in the plane rather that the simulator has reminded me why I am a pilot and reinvigorated my passion for what I do.

I started a new job this year. It has made me feel accomplished but also frustrated as I'm navigating new work relationships, environments, and tasks. It has changed the general structure of my day to day life and I'm not sure if it is for good or bad yet. I am grateful to have the job, proud of myself for getting it, and relieved to have the regular income. I am inspired by the environment I'm in but not sure where it will go from here. I hope I can be an influence for good in my new work environment, but am worried that other people's bad attitudes will pull me down and make it difficult for me to continue doing my job well.

A breakup; it had been a long relationship, nearly 5 years. I discovered soon after that he had cheated, but I'm not hurt or angry about it. I'm glad I got out. Cheating is a way to try and control another person or one's own situation, and it's cowardly. I know it's more a power move than being attracted to another person. Attraction happens, it's not something to be guilty about. I'm able to be me again. I see my friends regularly. I do what I want, and I remember that I'm a good person.

For the second time in a year, we moved last May. It was a good thing because the house in which we were living was really too small and had major issues with drafts. Our new house is much more homey and comfortable. It also has good, well-sealed windows and is well insulated. The other really good thing about moving twice in one year is that we have gotten rid of a lot of "stuff". However, we still have more to go!

My 93 year old father-in-law passed away. He didn't really get sick until weeks before he died. He and my mother-in-law resisted putting him in a nursing home until the last possible minute. As children we felt sure that it would be easier on Mom to have him in a nursing home, but we also respected their wishes. Might he have lived longer in a home? Yes. Would it have been quality time? No. This experience inspired me to consider aging, and how poorly our society deals with being old and needing care. My father-in-law got to stay at home, but my mother-in-law may not be so lucky. Which way will it be for me and my husband?

I quit drinking. Finally! Hallelujah! I quit on July 30 after a horrendous July 29, but all year it has occupied me. I quit for a hundred days early on, and then a few weeks, and now, for good. I am feeling very grateful and relieved. I am clear--too clear, I sometimes joke--but feeling centered and grounded and also still aware of how much more centered and grounded I want to feel.

I found out I am losing my job due to company folding. It was shocking (mildly, as it wasn't completely unexpected) at first, but has become very liberating as it has forced me to really look and consider what I would like to do and how and where I would like to do it. Without this forced change, I would have had no reason to question or pursue something else, which I am excited to do.

I had a major breakthrough with my therapist this year. I've been seeing her for almost 5 years now and I'm amazed at how it has taken this long for me to develop the comfort needed to be completely honest with her (and myself). Now to continue to work on undoing all of my childhood training about how to be the quietest, most perfect, most reliable, most responsible, least boat-rocking of all the kids. Addiction and families: a recipe for disaster that keeps giving, generation after generation. Here's to letting the buck stop with me.

This past year, I got married. The wedding itself was beautiful and the day was incredibly special for me. Having my friends and family come to show their love and support for my husband and me was moving. I loved being able to celebrate with them the commitment and love I have felt for the past five years my husband and I have known each other. However, the wedding was also part of a long series of stresses and frustrations this year. The planning and life outside of wedding planning have been very stressful, leaving me feeling spent. In the course of these stresses, my husband and I have both said that the only good thing to happen this year was the wedding. But getting married has been more than the wedding day, of course. Both before and after the wedding, my husband and I have been committed to being there for each other, through thick and thin. The stresses and frustrations this year have provided ample opportunity for both of us to depend on each other and to be depended on. Neither of us is perfect, of course, but both of us have put forth enormous effort to do what we can for each other, even if is only a heart-felt hug and saying "We'll work it out together." Our wedding and all the associated issues has left me feeling both exhausted and hopeful, stressed and read for the future. I would not have picked our wedding year to be a time of stress and trials for us, but the committment we've shown to each other reinforce the vows we made and the celebration of that committment.

I had my sabbatical, and was lucky enough to be able to go to Washington DC with Pat, and then go to Texas for 4 weeks and visit family to my heart's content! What a blessing a sabbatical is!

I enrolled in college. It gave me something to look forward to and got me out of the rut I was in. I am inspired to better my life and future. I feel like this is my last change to do something proper in my life. I want to make sure I effect the world and am not just another person who is just living everyday and hoping and wishing for better things. I want to make it happen for myself.

My uncle Dave died suddenly last month. It was a devastating shock to my family. My heart ached for not only myself, losing my favorite uncle and a man I'd grown up making up silly songs with, playing games with and enjoying life with, but also for my father, who lost his best friend, and for my cousins, aunt, and siblings who'd all lost one of the most important people in their lives. I learned what grief really is and that only time can maybe make it better. But I am so very thankful to have had an example of how to live, love, and be in this world. Thank you Uncle Dave.

Whew. This year has been vastly better, and easier, than last year was. Thanks to Obamacare, I was able to get insurance and finally have a full body skin cancer check again, after four years. I had three biopsies and none of them were melanoma this time!! The one on my chest was squamous cell carcinoma, which I had removed about a week ago. :)

My medical condition is in remission, and my eye has improved enough after surgery that am able to get new eye glass pescription. I am relieved and grateful.

World news has been affecting me deeply over this year. The growth of the ISIS group in Middle East, as well as the development of Ebola in West Africa are two developments that have stunned, shocked and upset me. I have found myself feeling furious and helpless in reaction, much as I do to the lack of serious deliberation, worldwide, to climate change and its consequences. I have been heartened by recent marches to support climate change interventions. And I am heartened by the courage of those willing to fight both ISIS and, more profoundly, Ebola. I can't remember a time in recent history where good and evil, right and wrong, have been so clearly demarcated, at least to me.

I completed cognitive exposure therapy to finally move past my childhood sexual abuse. It was difficult, I cried, I learned that I had been penetrated which was so sad for me. It also completely took away all my symptoms of PTSD, no more hypervigilence, thinking everyone is a child molester, hating to be touched, only being able to be sexually aroused by abusive thoughts. It helped me tremendously and it helps me have more hope for my clients how have gone through the same thing.

My wife's second mastectomy with reconstruction was the most significant event this year and one of the most important in my life. It wasn't her first, which felt like a wave of overwhelming fear. This time, it had two aspects: First, I had to trust my wife's decision completely and to accept it. That trust wasn't immediate, but it was much easier than I imagined for such a big choice. I had accepted her decision well before the surgery date. Second, I was forced to re-confront the terror that goes with a major surgery. I was easier than the first major surgery, but still quite difficult. How did it affect me? It reinforced the strength of our relationship. We had completed another difficult period together. Also, it challenged me to accept her decisions, no matter how difficult. That step reinforced our trust in each other. Am I grateful? Yes. My first moment of gratitude was when she looked down at her reconstructed chest and smiled. Truly smiled with comfort and a look of self satisfaction. That moment was precious. That moment also brought relief. I was relieved because the moment was confirmation that she had made the right decision (and she did). Am I resentful? No, not a bit. Honestly, that emotion never occurred to me. I am inspired. The gratitude comes up on reflection of those early moments of recollection at her exit from surgery. They're gems. The inspiration is different - its a fabric of our relationship now. She made a difficult decision. She did the HARD THING. I'm inspired by that and I feel that one day'll i'll have to draw on that inspiration to do my own hard thing. Yes, I'm inspired.

Within the past year I was able to sign my scholarship to play volleyball for this school. I am beyond grateful for this experience because I never thought I would play volleyball again nor did I think I would finish school.

I joined Planet Fitness to have somewhere to go to use weights and just be out of the house. This is not a significant event. When I first started going there, I would get on the treadmill and try to intersperse my walking with a little bit of running, and it would always hurt. Until one day this spring. I tried running, and it DIDN'T HURT. Like, at all. I was winded, I was out of shape, but the knee felt just fine. I couldn't believe it. Here I was, on the treadmill, grinning like an idiot and close to tears, and running. When I think back to 2 years ago, after I'd fallen and shattered my patella, and thought, I'll never be able to walk properly again, or bend down, or go up and down stairs without limping, I am beyond amazed that I can do anything, including run. I am amazed at myself, and I am even more amazed at my body's capacity to heal. I can't think of anything more empowering or inspiring.

I left my job of 12 years at the end of June. It was, and continues to be, a really mixed bag. So many survival issues came up, both positive and negative. It's hard to walk away from something that gave me both time and money, but the alcoholic boss needed to be left behind. It has taken quite a bit of time to unwind; the process is still going on. And my brain is happy to not have to continue to keep track of things I could care less about. I was fortunate to be put in a position of getting to work on developing my business. My boyfriend has been making good money and agreed to pay the bills. The independent feminist who hasn't let a man pay her way in over 25 years has been freaking out; the woman who always goes for "fair" feels guilty that her boyfriend is having to work all the time while she doesn't; the middle-aged woman who had a stressful work situation for the last several years has been grateful for this sabbatical….

This year, I had the opportunity to go on the March of the Living. There, I spent one week in Poland and one in Israel. It was life changing, inspiring, and unbelievable. Never in my life have I seen such disturbing images like those in Madjanek or such beautiful images like the Kotel.

My second grandchild was born to my son and his new wife, far away. I had to do a lot of processing about family being far-flung, and about not being welcome to visit in the weeks leading up to and after the birth. It was very sweet when I finally got to meet her, yet the feeling of alienation persists. We are not at odds, but not "close-knit". I have to stop feeling like there's something really wrong about not conforming to the ideal of the tight family. But this doesn't mean we don't love each other. How am I feeling? Confused!

I married my best friend. Every day I am grateful for knowing I have a true partner in my life who loves me without condition, supports my wellness, and treats me with respect. I had quite a scary experience with an adverse reaction to a medication which made me feel like I was actually about to lose my life. The even created an overwhelming amount of anxiety and fear and I have been working hard for the past few months to alleviate the anxiety and reduce the fears. The experience caused a great deal of self-reflection and acknowledgement of the lack of control I have here in this life. The experience also created a stronger faith as I was able to feel God's love for the first time ever. It's overwhelming!

I joined a community marching band. It's one of the best decisions I've made in a long time. I've met some wonderful new friends, and re-discovered my love for making music. It helps break up the monotony of adult life and challenges me to be more creative.

My mental health program was taken over by the county. In my mind, the result was enormously disrespectful of the clients and the staff. I tried to make it work for 4 1/2 months but found I could not collude with the system. I quit my job. I feel disheartened with government in a way my liberal, left wing self has never felt before. I am grateful for my savings account, grateful for medicaid, and grateful that I seem to finally have found a clinic to work at that espouses my values. I am always inspired by the people who come to me for help in finding a way out of their sorrows, and I am inspired by my coworkers who are almost always fighting for people less advantaged than themselves.

I completed a year and a half long treatment protocol for colorectal cancer with reconnection surgery (final step) taking place on March 12, 2014. I am grateful to be cancer free, according to CT scan and colonoscopy tests in September 2014. I hope to carry several life lessons with me from my experience. Community heals and comforts--so many people reached out to me and helped me tangibly and spiritually. God's fingerprints were evident throughout my whole process, from diagnosis to multiple treatments to healing. My priorities have solidified and I try to practice my priorities: Family, Food, Sleep, Exercise, Work. All infused with Faith. I banish worry about tomorrow and have let go of old hurts from the past--these do not serve me. I read early on from another survivor that a cancer diagnosis is "a one way ticket to the land of No Bullshit." Minor things do not rock my boat and I try to keep things in perspective. My health and mental wellbeing need to come first. I am slowly giving up being a "people pleaser". I do not take on other people's drama and will consciously change my thinking and make a choice about how other people's energy affects me. I have a choice. I choose life and love. I choose to count my blessings. I choose to let go of old ways of thinking. I choose to set a strong example for my child. I choose to serve my ideals as best I can. I choose to ignore others' negativity. I choose to be present for my son. I choose to cherish my husband. I choose to seek out positive people at work. I choose to take care of myself. I choose food that nourishes and makes me feel good. I choose activities that will strengthen my mind and body and spirit. I choose to be grateful. Some have described me as "Type A" which never made sense to me because I'm an easygoing and friendly person. However, I'm very driven and a recovering perfectionist. Rather than striving for the next thing, I have really embraced relaxing and enjoying the moment. I have achieved; I have arrived; I have accomplished. Now I am ready to relish the present and make conscious choices. For the good of all, according to the free will of all, and so it must be. Amen

This may seem trivial but to me was significant. I turned 50 this year and at the same time was declined a position I really wanted and was well suited for. Being declined made me wonder was my age a factor? It also left me feeling like my chance at having the kind of career I wanted had reached a dead-end. Devastating actually. On the other hand, just today I learned of a young friend's death from cancer. Age is all about perspective.

My girlfriend and I moved in together. It was a scenario that I was emotionally comfortable with but it also brought up issues about opening myself up to the risk of being hurt. Those concerns were founded in the past though and she has made me feel strong enough to realize that the past does not define who I am. It has affected me by making me aware of patterns in can fall into ( negative reactions to situations and sentiments that strike the 'past' chord). I also realized that my life is more fulfilled and calm with her in it. To be able to share life with her more closely only makes me feel more grounded. Grateful and inspired to be a better person for her and for me.

I finally accepted my doctor's advice and started taking medication for my anxiety. Both my dad and my sister have Bi-Polar disorder, and have been down a never-ending road of medications on top of medications, so I had a lot of reservations about opening that door. I worried that I wouldn't feel like myself any more. I called and talked to my dad about it, and he said that he never feels like himself, but he doesn't want to go back to being full-blown crazy enough that it is worth it to him to take the medications. I also realized when I had that conversation with him that my family talks a lot about him, but we don't talk to him very much. That conversation was both harrowing and very enlightening. As for my own medication: I'm a little over a month in, and I don't feel all that different. But I mentioned to my partner that I'm not sure if it is working, and he pointed out the following to me: 1) I haven't walked in the door and immediately burst in to tears lately. 2) I haven't had any panic attacks at work or had to call in sick because of anxiety. 3) I haven't cried myself to sleep lately. 4) I haven't been unreachable in the cloud of worry that I often carry around. This list makes me really sad. I knew it was bad, but Jesus, I'm lucky to have a partner who has been putting up with that shit for the last 4 years and still loves me. As for the medication, I'm still nervous about it conceptually. But I'm also a little annoyed. If it was this easy all along, and my life thus far didn't have to be so hard, then what was I doing with myself?

I went on a church service mission and so far it's been a great experience. I can feel myself growing up abd it's weird and wonderful at the same time.

This year I got divorced. The process had started last year, but the divorce came through this year. I feel grateful, relieved, guilty, ashamed and sorry for my kids. I also feel happy, free, and open to loving more deeply. I found that being divorced allowed me to get into a serious relationship with a new woman and start to make plans for a new life.

My boyfriend and I breaking up was a really hard experience to overcome. I went through every emotion possible - sadness (horrible horrible sadness), nervousness for the future, anger, resentment, questioning, reflecting, and then finally peacefulness. It hasn't been easy but I am truly grateful for what comes next in future relationships and I think I learned a lot about what a healthy relationship could potentially look like.

I began teaching Law of Attraction classes at Keller Williams. I became more confident in my teaching and understanding of how life truly works. I am so grateful I took the chance, went above my fear and began my path to teaching others how to be happy in life.

I had an early miscarriage. I learned a few new facts because of it. I know the difference between a chemical and a clinical pregnancy now. I know that it matters not a bit to me that mine was a chemical pregnancy; that the heartache and sense of loss is the same at 4 weeks as it was for me when I lost my first child at 13 weeks. I also know that I am one of the very few women who are comforted by the words 'at least you can get pregnant'. I had chemotherapy for breast cancer and I'm very lucky that my fertility has returned. I hope it has returned enough to sustain a pregnancy to term. I hope my son will have a brother or a sister one day. I hope they will be lucky enough to escape the neurological differences my son has and I won't ever have to hear the words 'Your child has autism' again. I hope.

I graduated from college and started a new job! It definitely changed my lifestyle, but it actually wasn't as big of a transition as I thought it was going to be. I'm pretty grateful that I ended up being able to stay in NYC and that I got a job that I like and that I'm living near a lot of my friends. I'm relieved that it hasn't been that hard of a transition, and I'm also relieved that I don't have to do homework every night! I don't feel terribly inspired at the moment - I think I need a break from activism and extracurricular activities, etc. But I'm feeling really happy and excited about being in this new phase of life!

I went by ambulance to the ER and spent two days in the ICU with a "gastric event" -- possible food poisoning. While I was there and they were working on a diagnosis, I got a CT scan which showed a spot on my kidney. They confirmed by ultrasound that I did indeed have something on my kidney, and it turns out that this kind of growth is malignant 90% of the time. I went through some terror, particularly worrying about my kids if something should happen to me. I went to a oncology urologist and learned that 1) the growth is very small and 2) this kind of cancer doesn't grow quickly. In fact, the doctor was fine if I wanted to wait and see with an ultrasound every three months. In early October I go back for another ultrasound to see if there are any changes. If it's the same, I could do another wait-and-see period or opt to have the growth removed -- for this surgery you spend 3-5 days in the hospital and 3-4 weeks recovering. I don't know what I'll do yet. The whole experience was sobering though. I'm not nearly as terrified by the thought of dying as I once was, the thought of leaving my kids with only their dad scared me. Even the prospect of being at reduced capacity for a month worries me a lot. There's so much emotional care taking -- helping with the identification and articulation of feelings is a big responsibility. So I'm worried, relieved, and grateful -- for the early detection. I'm also grateful that I decided to go with my instincts on that day and asked Dave to call an ambulance and insisted on going to the ER. Hope I can remember to follow my instincts, esp. about my own body, going forward.

I lost my house to taxes and moved to California. I was sick of my house and my job, and I wanted to move, but I didn't handle it the best. I could have made more quality out of that house, and partly I just let it go because I was sick of it. And when I look at the prisoner my friend is to her house, I feel better because that is no way to live, for me anyway. Yet I am on the roads, as my Irish forbears might say, now, and I miss my garden, and my home state has water and now I'm in the center of a drought, there's been an earthquake, a forest fire, and it is competitive here, no doubt! I sometimes think, what's next, a famine? Ebola? Oh, heavens protect me and danger pass by....The first days are the hardest days, as the Grateful Dead said, and this is a gamble. The pace of change is very rapid for me, and I hope I can make it. I'm cautiously optimistic, and I have to make the most of this time and not get lazy or ossified and unable to respond nimbly and promptly, a tall order for some 63 year olds! (Hopefully not me, since my official age is 53:-)

My husband had to go back to his home country to work out a lot of complicated things related to his retirement. I'm grateful for his focus on our financial security, and really, it's all we've got, but I'm also frustrated that it's taking so long. So it's complicated. And I miss him. But it's a testament to our marriage that we are working through the separation time without blowing any gaskets. So far.

I moved from Prince Edward Island to Ontario for school. As a 25 year old I left behind all my friends and what was familiar, so I feel like I should have done this when I was younger. But I'm happy to be on the right path now.

I started charging significantly more money for my services. I've been undervaluing myself for years. It feels amazing to make so much more money for the same work. I'm very proud.

In the past year I got a new job, quit my existing job, moved across the country with my girlfriend, and started a new life in a new city. It was terrifying and exciting and eye-opening. Being on the west coast has been great; it's enabled me to see my family more frequently, and escape the insanity that was life in NYC. I don't miss that city, but I do miss my Brooklyn neighborhood and definitely my friends. Moving far away has showed me who my real friends are and those whose friendship will sustain the distance.

I was able to study abroad at the Globe Theatre in London. I am incredibly grateful for the unique and educational experience. If I am honest thought, I also feel disappointed in myself for not making enough of my time in England and disappointed in the response I received from others upon returning. I feel I am perhaps inadequate in communicating what I have learned.

My daddy died this year. It was horrible. I had to see him naked and dead. I had to help move his corpse onto a gurney for the funeral home. I had to be nice to my mom. I had to deal with my useless husband and shocked children. I had to take care of myself. I am grateful for the experience because my daughter stepped up in a way that I had not expected, and I was very proud of her. It made me aware that my son is still a child (nine is younger than it seems, really), and my husband is better at leaving me alone than he is at being supportive with me. I am relieved that my daddy is no longer unhappy, in pain/discomfort, and is in 'heaven' now. I hope he's having fun. I am not resentful, except for the fact that now I have to deal with money issues. Inspired? Not really, but trying to use his memory to be inspiration to finish my writing. :D

My boyfriend and I broke up. Seems kind of trivial. But the break up has affected me greatly. It brought up a lot of different feelings. Feelings of loneliness, resentment, anger. A lot of anger. But reflecting on everything that's happened, I've learned a lot about myself and about how other people work and understand things. I'm not grateful for the way things turned out. But it has given me a chance to rebuild myself, my identity as an individual. I feel like what I want from life is becoming clearer. It's a push towards starting anew. I can finally move to LA without having something here tying me down. I can think about myself and my needs for once. I've gained a lot of self-respect.

Katie's (one and only child) has her final jaw surgery and is accepted to grad school and moves to Boston. At 26, living at home with her parents, 5 jaw surgeries, holding off applying to grad school because she was in pain. Then deciding to get on with life. Apply to 4 grad schools. Accepted at all 4 and choosing one halfway across the country from home. Schedule the last surgery. Get braces on her teeth for the third time and at 25 knowing that it would be 8 to 9 months before they came off. Accepting a position at a school half way across the country. Moving to a place where she doesn't know anyone except a roommate who she only knows via email and texts. Being homesick (who isn't) but overcoming (who doesn't) and now beginning the adventure. Opened my eyes to her strength, determination, and persistence. Grateful, relieved, inspired.

This year was the implementation of me staying at home. It's interesting to reflect on the 2013 answers when Kris and I had just started the conversation and this year, it's actually happened. It's been a totally different experience for our family, and it's wonderful. The stress level of our family has dropped significantly, we're able to get Saige to her activities in a way that doesn't impact our time together, and we spend our weekends together just relaxing or having adventures. It's beautiful. I am incredibly grateful to my wife for being the person to go to work every day to provide the money we need for our family. I know it's hard for her to go to work while I stay home. I hope she knows how much I appreciate that sacrifice for us. It's been such a blessing for all of us, especially Saige, to have someone home for her.

My boyfriend of seven and half ( 7 1/2) years has left me for the final time. He has gone back to his EX spouse which he has been divorced from for a very long time. This time, I am more angry than hurt. I am grateful for the support that I have had from family and friends. This happened on August 30, 2014 so it is pretty recent. It will take some time for me to move on but I will, as I have no choice.

Many things felt significant this year. Deaths, Births, marriages, job changes. Through all of it, I've learned to feel centered. I've come to know myself better than I thought. I've learned to take it all with a breath of openness that wouldn't have been possible before. I've learned to love and let go. I am absolutely grateful. It's not something I came to on my own. I've experience so much love and support this year. However, I don't feel relieved. There's still a pressure I know I have to express, but haven't learned how to do it yet. Resentful? Occasionally, but it goes away once I realize all the beauty that surrounds me. Friends, family, the future. I am so inspired. I feel the inspiration itching under my skin. What do I create with it?

I had been out of work and then severely underemployed (earning slightly over minimum wage) for 6 years. After numerous attempts to "remake" myself, I was about ready to give up. This year a wonderful firm took a chance on me. They saw something in me that made them want to take a chance in hiring me. I have been gainfully employed since April of 2014 with this firm and we are all happy with each other. I was relieved and grateful. I am also inspired to do my best for them because they were the only ones in all this time willing to give me a chance.

We almost lost our home to foreclosure. We borrowed what we owed from our family and had to sell in order to pay everyone back. So today we are almost entirely debt free. Now we live in a rental with our three teenagers. Its smaller, but we're closer together and that's nice. We don't owe anybody anything and we're paying our bills on time. I'm so much more relaxed. At the same time I'm deeply sad.

This past year, I ended a relationship that I had been in and out of for the past 3.5 years. I loved the guy since the moment I met him, but it took me a while to understand that he would never love me like that. Ending this relationship has made me feel scared, fearful, alone, lacking, not enough, flawed, unlovable, undesirable, and like I'm never going to find anyone as good as him. At the same time, ending this relationship has made me feel strong, empowered, self-caring, honest, and capable of setting my boundaries and keeping them. It has given me a voice and conviction that I was lacking before. It has helped me acknowledge, speak, and give power to my emotions without being overpowered more than ever before. It has given me a chance to see that even though I'm alone and not in love, I'm still enough. I'm something just with myself. At times I am resentful of him for not loving me, but more resentful of myself for not loving me enough to say "no more" sooner. The death of that relationship has given me new life, and for the first time I can honestly say that I like the woman I'm becoming.

Getting into Graduate School. It made me make tough decision of leaving my well paying job and stepping into a new career. I am grateful for this opportunity and the support I received from my family, colleagues and friends.

Oldest son left moved across the country for his Freshman college year. Grateful for him, grateful that he has such an opportunity.

I learned how to do some magic tricks, and I just invented one now. I am happy and feel good about myself. I bring joy to other people and sometimes I fool myself in my card tricks. I am still inspired by those great magicians out there, and am grateful to those who reveal some of them- so I can learn new tricks and slight-of-hand.

Had to transfer my spouse's mother from her retirement home to a secure locked in care facility without her knowledge. Then we had to dispose of a lot of her belongings that aren't allowed in the new facility. It was one of the hardest things I've had to do. She is in the final advanced stage of Alzheimers. To be in perfect physical health while losing your mind is a horrible and unfair fate. I'm grateful she is safe and being cared for but I resent what this disease does to a person.

My wife had a very serious lung/upper respiratory infection in February that hospitalized her for a week and really scared all of us. Then in April, during the intake exam with her new pulmonologist, he found on the x-ray a small mass in her right lung. We discussed options and agreed that more testing was required, resulting in MRI, CAT, PET scans, still without a formal diagnosis (other than "schmutz"). Fearing malignancy, we elected surgical removal, which couldn't be scheduled until July. Much to our relief, surgery was successful and lab reports proved non-cancerous, with no lymph gland infection. However, our relief from this was short-lived - one week following Gail's surgery (only 2 months ago), our daughter-in-law was struck and killed by an SUV while she was crossing the street on her way to lunch. We are all still in the process of dealing with the tragedy and its repercussions.

I went to Israel to volunteer with Sar El in the midst of Operation Protective Edge. For the first time ever, someone (Hamas) was actively trying to kill me just because I was on the Israeli side (and volunteering to help Israel). I felt like what I was doing over there really mattered to help support the Zionist state and what I do in the United States doesn't always matter. I know that it does (teaching, after all, lifts up the poor long-term and can be part of tikkun olam), but sometimes my concerns about the economy, annoying co-workers, traffic, etc. can seem incredibly shallow. I'm grateful I got to be there and wish I could do more for Israel. My husband doesn't want to make aliyah and I can't push him that hard. I'm afraid my support for Israel will disappear into the daily grind of the workweek here.

I got engaged, and while I was and am very happy about that I noticed I started thinking about people dying all the time. Alone, in company, before bed, after waking up, I thought so much about my loved ones dying. I kept trying not to face it. I kept trying to just "stop thinking about it." It wasn't until I sat down and wrote my reasons for thinking about death, about how I was both possessive of my loved ones, and scared of my own death, that I was able to move on. It was an interesting affliction to suffer and an interesting one to get over. There's nothing anyone can do but live as best you can.

There have been so many significant experiences this past year, it's mind-boggling! I could mention moving to Colorado, starting work on faculty at a ballet company school, waitressing again at the vaudeville, dancing in Nutcracker with a ballet company in the south, moving into an RV and touring the United States with a Broadway musical -- the list goes on and on. But the experience I would like to focus on is the time that I spent alone with my step kids this summer, in the first weeks that I lived in Colorado not as a tourist but as a resident. I've known my step kids for many years now and had done plenty with each of them one-on-one. But for the three of us to live as a family without their father was a new and completely different experience. I knew it would be a challenge, everyone knows being a lone parent is tough no matter who you are. I also knew it would be intense. What I didn't know is whether the strong bond I already had with my step kids would be able to continue growing under that strain or whether some cracks would begin to show. And while the cracks certainly did begin to show, perhaps the greatest revelation of the experience is that the cracks are exactly what ultimately help make the bond stronger. Of course it helps that I am blessed to have two amazing human beings for step kids: intelligent, willing, kind, and loving souls. I knew all this about them already, but to see them step up and flesh out their own good character in order to help me -- to help our family -- was profoundly moving. I did not have to nag or feel like "the bad guy" in order to get help with chores, and in fact they would often offer to help without being asked, by the end of the experience. I watched them learn how satisfying it is to be helpful, how times of leisure grow in value when you've sacrificed them to higher purposes. These are things we've of course spoken to the kids about for years. To see them put those ideas into practice was nothing short of magical. Certainly we had our rough moments. All three of us had to make an apology to the others at one point or another, for inexcusable behavior, for forgetting that two wrongs do not make a right, for indulging where we should have thought better of it. Those were hard moments on all sides. But in each instance we never failed to right ourselves, and by the end of the summer I felt we truly trusted each other -- not to do no wrong, but rather to sort out the wrong when it happens, and make it right. There were hard and scary moments and of course I questioned myself as a parent: should I be so hard on them? have I done something that isn't right? Each time I was able to answer those questions, and as I watched them struggle with similar questions I observed that they were also able to find the answers. It built a confidence among the three of us that I would never have dreamed could exist. I thought that I would be relieved for their father to return and take the pressure off. And in a certain manner of speaking it was a great relief, and life became infinitely better with his return. (I mean, that's why we're married! Life is better together!) But what I could not have anticipated is that I did somewhat regret to lose our special little unit of three that was me and the kids those bright, sunny days of summer. It was a time of little sleep, of near-constant work, of difficult camp schedules and work schedules and play schedules. But there was a glow to that time we had -- singing in the car, riding the gondola up to the adventure park, watching movies while they fell asleep -- it is a different hue from the happy family memories we all have together. It is the color of my relationship with the kids regardless of their father, and it is more stunningly beautiful than I ever could have imagined.

On October 14th 2013 I started a new full-time job doing something I had never done before. It was a challenge and very intense for the first few months, and then my role was changed. So for the last 9 months I've been doing something totally different which has become rather dull. While I'm grateful to have had this opportunity, doing what I'm now doing is NOT where I want to be right now and I hope by next year to be back to being challenged and even a bit scared by work, not dreading it.

I decided after much financial and emotional pain that it was time to end my career in trading Index options. The previous two years were a never ending source of stress in my life and I could not seem to fix it. The harder I tried to come up with a new strategy, a new way out to make things good again, it only added more stress. It is at the point of realizing that persistence is not working anymore I walked away from the business to take a step back. I have mixed emotions about it because it is a career that has defined who I am for the past 19 years of my initial working life. The exciting part and also very scary part about this decision is it is allowing me to do something completely new. I am now realizing that I have neglected learning on a daily basis and focusing on the things that I really enjoy and I pushed them to the back of the pile of life. I have no regrets with my decision and realize that it is time now to pursue something new. That sounds good, hopefully it is true.

This year was extremely eventful so it's hard to choose what was the most significant, but I would have to say that the thing that impacted me the most is when me and my boyfriend broke up. It was a long time coming and it ended pretty terribly, but it was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. I got closer with my friends and family, was more open to making new friends, and was just myself again. I am friends with him now which I'm totally okay with. I am just too happy with my life now and I don't even know what would have happened if we were still together. I love life so much!

Eric and I renewed our vows on our 18th anniversary, the 18th of June. We had been arguing and negotiating for a long time before that and had just been on a bike trip in Wisconsin. We used Rabbi Jamie's pre-marital questionnaire. We were able to make vows to each other that were very true. We each had to face the sadness of knowing that there was something the other person wanted very much that we could not promise to deliver. But on the date of the ceremony, officiated by Coco and Gus in our living room, with 20 friends or so, the vows we did make held up extremely well. Shelli and I played Buddy Holly's "well all right", our official 18th anniversary song. I did not feel relieved, resentful or inspired. I felt like I had worked hard and accomplished something and so had Eric. I felt we were meant to be together for the next 18 years. It was monumental.

This past year I've decided to really put effort into blogging. I'm hopeful I can make a difference to others, I'm hopeful I can make a little bit of an income to help keep things moving a little more easily around here. I'm busy and overwhelmed, there is so much more to learn than I thought there would be, but I'm excited to see this work, and really help make a difference when we're in tight spaces.

My son was born on November 11 2013 and now he is 10 1/2 months old. I can't believe this wonderful little person is my son! Being a mom was extremely hard at first; the first months were a lot of worry, stress and fatigue. My husband and I clashed a lot as we each went through our own adjustments to our new roles and new life. Now, I am not only crazy in love with this little person, still in love with the wonderful man I married, but am also discovering new depths of my strength, patience and compassion. Being a mom is the most rewarding and evolving thing I have ever experienced.

This year's theme was loss. The most lasting of which has been the death of our beloved dogs. I am grateful for the light and life they injected in my day-to-day existence. I am relieved that they are no longer suffering. I am still struggling with going on without them.

Last week, I found myself on vacation in San Jose del Cabo and learned that a Category 4 hurricane was going to make a direct hit on us. The anxiety of the buildup, the trauma of the hurricane itself, and the fear, confusion, and isolation we experienced in the aftermath were all challenging, profound, and, ultimately, survivable. I'm grateful to all the kind Mexicans who helped us through the ordeal of Odile and for the support we received from family and friends. I'm relieved that it's over, that we're home safely and that we don't live in hurricane country. I'm struck by so many things that I felt, experienced and observed and will spend a fair amount of time - I hope - attempting to understand the lessons.

Oh wow... sooo many things. For starters, I'd discovered the wonderful world of foam-fighting. Amtgard, Jugger, and Dagorhir have changed my life in ways I never contemplated. It's amazing what just being active does to elevate one's mood. I could be having the crappiest day over, but after lugging myself and my gear through a 30 minute walk uphill and fighting with friends for a few hours, I walk back down the hill in high spirits. Also, hey, it's a great workout. It's nice to catch my reflection in the mirror and say, "Oh hey, I'm... maybe not that awful-looking...?" Then there's West Coast swing lessons with Mike... Who knew I would love it so much? I detested partner/social dancing before but decided to give it another try because... free lessons. And it is fun and absolutely fantastic to go out dancing at the Sundance Saloon on Thursday nights. And then there was the Claremont Colleges gig... Our first ever professional/"legit" BIT gig... The very first instance where I realize: 1) Yes, it is possible to do what I LOVE and get paid a living stipend for it... even if "it" is acting and writing scripts. 2) More importantly, the work we do... is important. And valued. And damn good quality. I need to stop selling myself and our company short. BIT could well be a big part of my future... I should describe it to people proudly, not as a "side thing" that I do. ~~~ All in all, 2014 so far has brought wonderful changes. I am grateful for all of them.

I ran a marathon! My first and probably only. I ran the Marine Corps Marathon and it was, hands down, the hardest physical and mental thing I have ever done in my life. I had a total breakdown at mile 13 with GI issues and panic, but I cried, sucked it up and kept going. Making it through the Gauntlet at mile 17 was amazing, then making it to the bridge at mile 20 under the cutoff time was FANTASTIC!!!!! I will never forget that feeling, or seeing the joy on my husband's and children's faces. I am so grateful that I did it, and so happy I gave so much inspiration to my friends, family, co-workers and all the students at my school. It was incredible, and I felt like I was on a cloud for weeks afterwards.

My daughter Jenny was married to Julie Foster. I hadn't expected that but the experience has been very positive for Jenny. She's far more happy and less stressed than before. She fully loves Julie and they are good together. The wedding ceremony was perhaps the most genuine and emotional one I've ever experienced. That follows a lifetime pattern of Jenny being a very slow Bullet. Her accomplishments tend to come late but full blown. My feelings were of great happiness for her and a better understanding of how great a relationship can be. My only re great I shared with her is that it seems unlikely she will become a Mother and she'd have been a great one. I'd have loved to have been her child. Love, discipline and get things done, Yes, You Can! kind of Mom. But, I still have her as my daughter and I'm deeply appreciative of that.

I saw my very first client for individual therapy this past year (3 weeks ago). It inspired a lot of feelings of gratitude as well as fear concerning the associated responsibilities. I'm so appreciative of the experiences that got me to this point, but I'm scared about the future.

My step children's mother died last winter of cancer. They are in grade school and elementary school. The change on them was dramatic as they not only lost a parent but had to move homes and schools. I have been a co-parent for them since they were very small; but, becoming their full time parent has had its joys and sorrows. It has led everyone in the family to question their mortality and each others mortality. I feel grateful for the time spent with with all of our children. I feel relieved and lucky every day to be alive; as if I have stolen some treasure that is not really mine. I feel resentful that their mother did not take care of herself and died as a result; and then feel guilty for thinking that way. And I feel inspired to be a better mother to all of them; despite knowing that I will never be good enough.

I lost the contract at my last job and was, for the first time in years, unemployed. It was depressing; even though the job was not a good fit and highly stressful, it was still a job. It paid the bills, it gave me freedom and purpose, and it was a challenge. I spent two and a half stressful months job hunting. Each job application was targeted and precise. These weren't form resumes and fill-in-the-blank cover letters; each part of the application was tailored to that specific job at that specific company. Some resulted in contact, most didn't. I was interviewed 6 times before finding a job. The time off allowed me to reexamine what I wanted in life. Where did I want to go? What did I want to do? What was important in my life? I decided that the career path I had been on was not what I wanted to do. Stability in my life is important, as is the creation of something bigger than myself and bettering the world. These decisions led me to the academic world and I took a position I never would've considered in the past. It's been a whirlwind the past 6 months since starting and I've loved every stressful and fulfilling moment.

I had a robotic thyroidectomy after all other efforts to curtail my Graves Disease failed. The surgeon scraped me, causing internal bleeding and a second surgery to repair the damage. During second surgery, the intubation permanently damaged my laryngical cord, leaving me permanently handicapped. I was profoundly affected, as were my family members. Terror at how close I came to death, fear I would not wholly recover breathing, swallowing, and speaking abilities were pervasive, and weekly trips to medical specialists became the norm. At this point, I am aware of my condition and maintaining the new normal. I am not grateful it happened to me, in a physical sense, but the scare brought incredible love and support from surprising quarters. I am very relieved the worst is over and I am able, most days, to live un encumbered. I was resentful, angry I could be so physically assaulted so easily. I felt so out of control of my body, my life. Yet, I think this experience has made me more alert, more aware that everyone is walking around with something, and the compassion rather than the suffering is what makes us human.

This year we moved across the country! I didn't want to move, and I especially didn't want to move to Los Angeles. I didn't want to move our baby away from her family. I didn't want my Mom, who just lost my Dad, to also be seperated from her grandchild. So its hard being in a new place that I don't especially like that is so far from family, friends, and the places we love. Ryan and I both wish that we could be at family gatherings, spend times with our friends, and go to our favorite places. So all this is true and hard. But at the same time I feel like I am much better here. Maybe its mostly that we're away from the jobs that we didn't like and we're also out of the long and stressful time of unemployment. I'm so, so, so, so grateful that period is over with. It's amazing to be able to commit to something a month ahead or even 3 or 6 months ahead! Because I have no reason to doubt that we will be here! I feel calmer and happier. I feel more connected to God. Staying home with the baby has its boredom and frustrations, but I'm so glad that I'm doign this instead of my old job. I'm grateful to God for this transition.

Eric and I went on a trip to Seattle. It was a great trip to connect and it took forever to connive him to go but it was absolutely amazing. Spending time together doing things we loved and not having to rush around and do anything. I loved everything. It was great reinforcement to see that we are truly best friends and partners in life

My boyfriend leaving for higher studies and going to another city. It frightened me terribly coz I feared losing him but this whole process has made Mr a stronger person. And given me the strength to have faith in us and pursue my goals and interests to lead a happier and more fulfilling life!!

My son was one year off probation and out of trouble. I am extremely relieved and grateful. He has grown so much and grown up as well and he no longer worries me when I can't get ahold of him. He is more responsible and has graduated college and just seems to have a great outlook on life. He is no longer doing drugs and has just become a wonderful young man. This has affected me by bringing me much joy and happiness. And pride!

A friend passed away suddenly. It put things in perspective. Other things we had been going through - unexpected expenses, arguments, layoffs at work, paled in significance. I was reminded that this is ALL short term. I was reminded that what I do matters.

-In October 2012 my girl friend bought a condo and I moved in with her in January. -In February 2013 I got engaged. -In October 2013 I changed carriers. A new job in a new industry. -In April 2014 my father-in-law had a heart attack. -In August 2014 I got married.

Baby George arrived! I am a grandmother!

After two years of being unemployed, I was hired as a summer intern at Intel. Unfortunately, it isn't a really fulfilling job, so I'm a bit disappointed. I am still relieved that money is flowing in.

I was able to come to terms with my sexuality and come out to many of my friends. It is unbelievable the peace and happiness that acceptance of yourself brings you and I am extraordinarily grateful that it happened.

I felt a fluttering around my heart center when I asked my angels to help me cool odd after getting angry. I believe it was angel wings flapping to cool me down. Very grateful and inspired.

observing childbirth, I experienced a wide range of emotions. anticipation, fatigue, worry, helplessness, bliss the list continues. But above all, it was a reminder that we are all connected as one. Miracles really.

I was cast as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde: the Musical. When I was 12 years old, my mom took me to see the broadway show. As we walked out of the theatre I looked up to her and said, "Mom, one day I am going to play Elle Woods." When I was cast in the show it was truly a dream come true. It was a great relief to be done with auditions and anticipation, but also brought on a great pressure to impress and achieve greatness in the role. There is a large number of people depending on me and I am striving to deliver to the best of my ability.

Of course: the birth of S. She is here, alive, healthy. I am someone who finds herself starting with "alive" as the base to achieve. I am so relieved and grateful. I found myself thinking "lucky" but that is uncomfortable. I don't know that I'll ever feel comfortable with that word again -- how can I be lucky when my son died? But I shifted the word to "grateful" and that feels more right. Not grateful to whom, just grateful for what. She is 4 weeks old today and beautiful.

My young adult daughter had another surgery, several pneumonias and hospitalizations, started at new school and has missed a lot of it. Dreams, persistence and health are in constant conflict in both our lives. During all of this I lost my job, possibly a friendship and a chunk of self-confidence with it. Other difficult issues keep coming up within my family, my own health and my attitude. Does it matter how hard I am on myself trying to manage so many things that I've lost my...idk vision? I used to be the glass half full person in the room and sometimes I pretend that's true. Maybe, I've been raising that glass up too high all along only to notice it's nearly empty already. Discouraged but still strong enough to do want I need to do.

June 2014 I went to a new doctor my wife found and went to in May 2014. He prescribed weight loss pills to help her lose 10-15 pounds. She has both asthma and a thyroid condition, making losing weight a challenge. Worse, every pound over 120 makes her asthma worse. I've been gaining about 4 pounds a year for our 25 year marriage and found myself at an uncomfortavle 250 pounds. In desperation, I went to the new doctor. He did prescribe weight loss pills for me. The hard part was hearing his cold assessment of my current health: morbidly obese, pre-diabetic, pre-gout. It scared me. The previous year I had tests run to determine my risk of heart attack or stroke, the two killers in my family. I was found to be at very low risk for both. So when the new doctor rattled off my future, I was shocked. Motivated by fear, supported by diet pills, I reduced my food intake and began to exercise like I haven't in 15 years. As of today, mid September, I've lost 25-30 pounds, depending on water weight and what I'm wearing. I feel great, have more energy, and I'm anxious to lose more. I'm not expecting to look like an athlete or a model. I just don't want to be fat.

I got married this year! It's been almost four months and I have loved every minute of it. We just look at each other and laugh sometimes because both of us thought it might not happen, and now here we are. I'm enjoying the upgrade in societal status of course, but it's the personal upgrade between the two of us that is the most special. I feel grounded and centered in the relationship, and happy! I am so very in love with my husband. Even though we knew each other and dated for years before we got married, something is definitely different, and it's definitely good.

I got into the alpha chi omega sorority. At first I was grateful because I met so many amazing women. I was relieved because I finally got something that I really wanted.

I was moved to a new school. I had been the principal at my old school for a long time. I felt like that I was just making headway to make the school more successful. I was just told I was moving without really getting an explanation. I grieved and grieved. I am now at my new school. I know that this is a gift from Yahweh - He needs for me to be here. So, I am happy - I wish the best for my old school - they were my family! Now I have a new one!

My current boss retired, and my new boss has a very different work style as well as some philosophical differences from the way we've conducted business in the past. I appreciate the new perspectives and find that my new boss's work style tends to be more in sync with my preferred work style. This has made the 8+ hours I spend at work each weekday much more enjoyable and my whole life less stressful. Sometimes it is difficult to adapt my thinking from the former way of doing things to the new way. My ability to be flexible and to move with the trends is challenged at times, but I am pleased with my ability to adapt quickly. I look forward to the changes in my own leadership that will occur as a result of the opportunity to work under someone new.

I was offered my job as an art teacher back after having been laid off, and then eventually forced to teach another subject area completely last year. It has affected me most significantly by tremendously reducing my stress level. I am a happier and healthier person--both mentally, and physically, because of it. It has also made me truly appreciate my job, and how lucky I am to not only have continuous employment, but to be able to do what I love for a living!

I was in a car wreck and broke bones for the first time in my life. I'm beyond grateful to have walked away. At the same time I'm devastated to have done something so stupid. As a whole this experience has reiterated to me how lucky I am and how important family and kindness are.

My wife and daughter went to Paris for a month during the summer. I was resentful. It seemed unfair that my wife chose a vacation that I would be unlikely to participate in (due to fear of flying).

I went to my 30 year High School Reunion. This was the first reunion I have been able to attend. I was very disappointed as it seems not much has changed with most of the people that showed up. So I have not missed much.

A significant experience for me is that I graduated from Brandeis University. Brandeis was my home for the past 3 1/2 years and it is hard to believe that it is over. It is also hard to believe how easy it was for me to get readjusted to living back at home. But it is completely different. I went from being surrounded by friends at every moment and having to squeeze things into my calendar to rarely hanging out with friends and just coming home after work to veg on the couch. That is not to say I am not busy and that I do not hang out with friends, I do. But the opportunity and availability has shifted dramatically. Furthermore, in college I was clearly working toward something - graduation, a degree in Sociology and Film, Television and Interactive Media. Now my goals are not as clear. I want to get a job, a job that I like that pays well, but it isn't easy, and there aren't clear guidelines to follow. As I write this on Erev Rosh Hashana, I hope that the new year brings clarity regarding where I go in life, where I am supposed to be and how to get there. Am I grateful? Brandeis was an amazing experience. Am I relieved? I'm excited to see where I end up but I miss the life I had built for myself while I was there. Am I resentful? No, but it is hard transitioning. Am I inspired? Well I spent 3 1/2 years worth thousands of dollars studying so I better make my future worth it!

My Dad passed away in May and I am sad, yet relieved because his frail condition and memory loss was becoming too difficult for him and our family. It has been very hard on my Mom who is now suffering from Lewy Bodies Dementia. She says she wants to get into "the box" with him and continues to wonder if he is really dead. Ugh! His death affected me such that I now find myself becoming more comfortable with my own demise and eventual death. I am grateful for all the wonderful memories I have of him as he was so kind and gentle and very intelligent. I hope that people will remember me in the same way.

A significant experience I had this past year was loosing my full time job of 18 years. I did feel fearful at first but then realized that this was an incredible opportunity for me to do what I really wanted to do. This was to do my hypnotherapy and energy work full time, (I was doing it part time for about 8 years) and to step up and be and do what I love most of all and that is to help people. I am sad that the company I worked for closed mostly because of the family connections that were built there but I am also very grateful because now I can pursue my passion to the fullest.

What could be more significant that our oldest son coming back to the family after 7 years. Last year it was a long shot, this year he reappeared just in time for Adams wedding. Glad he done with a miserable marriage and we are so grateful he's back with everyone putting the past behind us. We also so grateful for Adams marriage to a nice Jewish minded girl. Quite a year.

I got to marry my best friend and love of my life. It's had an amazing impact on my life, and I love everything we share - from the mundane to the exciting (monthaversaries). Absolutely relieved, as I see other friends still looking for "the one", and motivated to not let this significant life event only be about the one day we had a party, but more about the daily work we put into our relationship.

My father died earlier this year after a mental and physical decline that spanned a number of years. It was sad to lose him but I was grateful that his death was sudden and not painful to him. With both my parents gone now, my siblings and I realize that we are it: we are the link to our family's past for each other and for our children. I have both my parents in my head now. I notice things that they would like or dislike, approve or disapprove of. It's liberating because now I can think of them as they were at an earlier time in their lives, and I no longer have the constant worry of whether they are sick or in pain.

I had the entire summer off (paid!) from work. This was the first time I had the summer off since I was a child. I always wondered how it would be to have all that free time...would I be bored? Guilty? Every day I woke up with tears of gratitude that I had this time, just to BE. While I was busy every single day, I was busy doing things that I felt like doing. Instead of feeling as if I had too much time on my hands, I felt grateful for every minute I had to be creative, to relax, to accomplish anything I wanted to, to travel and to explore myself without time constraints! I became inspired to create a major work of art that I am still working on...such a great experience!

Last December I participated in a mission to Israel with my wife and some friends. It was an outstanding trip, and I was so grateful to have gone. It was inspiring, beautiful, moving, and the people we met and the places we visited left memories I hope will last a lifetime. I had not been to Israel in 31 years, and hope to go again soon so I can strengthen even more my ties to the country.

My wife and I travelled to New Zealand and Hawaii. We experienced what it is like to live on an island and be so much more impacted by weather and sea. Visiting active volcanoes and seeing the immense power of nature--which man cannot overcome but can only accommodate --was very humbling. Last Sunday I participated in the People's March on Climate Change. This was a direct result of having stepped out of the U.S. and seen a different side of the world. However one defines and relates to God, the command is clear: we can't despoil this planet that is such a gift.

Suddenly told I was no longer needed to look after my grandson-he was going to school and Mum would take him and pick him up. Not even going to stay one night a fortnight as before- after 4 years. At first, shocked- I'd had to give up my life in order to look after him,given up thinking of myself as a viable being. I was no longer going to find out how he was doing, be involved. Embarrassed- I'd been too involved, annoyed them, he was their child after all. Then relieved- the freedom, I get my life back. After a while, it transpired Mum was working again and I was needed to take and collect one day a week. One day a week at least means I get to see him, see how he is doing but most days it was only a few hours, which is manageable. Resented it when father said I undermined him quite unnecessarily- couldn't be further from the truth. With time I realized it was good that at last they were taking responsibility for their own child. But resent that grandparents on Mum's side will see a lot more of him. , despite being relived I'd have more time -and get my house back.

My divorce became final after 2 years and several appeals. I was relieved on several levels- to have it finally over, to have it come out mostly in my favor. After years of being told how worthless I was and that I had not contributed anything of value to the marriage it was nice to see that he was wrong and that several courts felt differently. I was relieved that my settlement was paid quickly. I have finally accepted that I am able to provide for myself. I am in a place where everything I have is mine- I do not need to please anyone to keep my lifestyle. It is very freeing. It is the first time in my adult life that I am not spending a lot of time or energy seeking a romantic relationship and that is REALLY freeing.

When I went up north with my family I was grateful that I could have a great time.

My husband's pancreatic cancer diagnosis and rapid death. I am lessened in just about every way. I know sooner or later I will come back to myself, but it will be a different self entirely. I am... sad. Lost. Lonely. I am... grateful for his life. For the time we had. Aware of the sacredness of his last few days but too close to hold them in holy space. I am exhausted.

I over stepped my pay grade. I was reprimanded pretty hard. I was upset at first and then resentful at the tactless way I was reprimanded. About 30 minutes later I had processed the whole incident and let it go into the past. At that point I felt a sense of relief..

I was very ill all summer. Surgery, tests, pain, infections. I feel very angry about missing out on days that could have been enjoyable. But, I was grateful for my husband's help in taking care of me.

With less than a week's notice, and for the first time ever, I had the pleasure of entertaining my grandsons, Will and Luke, ages 12 and 9, alone. Even better, it was at my home in Florida. They flew themselves on a direct flight from Chicago. The weather cooperated with sunshine every day, nearly all day. We swam in the pool and in the ocean, dug in the sand, played paddle ball and tennis, went to a professional play, went to a Cardinal's baseball game (Both boys came home with balls from players, and my son got a foul ball), explored the science museum, and stayed overnight at Temple Judea as caretakers in the homeless program, Family Promise (Will bonded with 10 year old Tim, and it led to discussions of how someone who used to have a cell phone and had traveled more than he had could be homeless.). Since they were born, I have acted as a good Grama, even though living long distance. I had continually told Will after he became 10 that I would be happy to pay his airfare if he would come and stay with me. This year my dream came true. One of the last things before boarding the airplane, my grandsons told me that they wanted to come to see me again. May I have this wish come true again!

My nephew's significant other suffered a brain aneurysm. It was tough to see the next generation be challenged by life so young (mid-20's), but impressive to see how he and her community rallied around her- and how the challenge clarified for them what was important. I ran home for a few days to support - and oddly felt grateful to be connected with my clan (I often feel estranged from them). My heart about exploded when he proposed to her a few months into her recovery. Proposals are sweet, but more so when you have an inkling of what you're really stepping into. To life! :)

I officially entered menopause and it sucks. I'm incredibly resentful. My plumbing has given me no shortage of problems but having my ability to have children end has made me feel like a useless sack of flesh just taking up space on the planet. I feel like I have one foot in the grave. Plus why now? Why so early? No one can tell me. It just is.

I retired 4 months ago- was looking so forward to it! I am very grateful to be able to retire, but it has been somewhat isolating and harder to adjust to than I thought it would. I am still in "de-stress" mode but hope/plan to develop some type of routine.

Well, I finally graduated from college (go me!), which made me feel better about myself, more relaxed because I could finally do things without feeling guilty for not studying or writing my thesis. For a month or two I gave myself some time to take things slowely and waste time without the guilt, and this was kind of nice. After that I was ready to concentrate on post-college activities, like finding a job. Finishing college also gave me a sense of self-respect regarding my occupation, and this is something that nobody can take away.

Doing a ten day trek through Peru with my wife, and my best friend and her husband. The trek was very difficult and pushed me to my physical limits at times. It also gave me lots of time to reflect. I realized my wife is not as empathetic as I would like. It also cemented my belief that we need to travel and enjoy life while we have our health as many people who put off traveling and things end up ever getting to do them.

I moved to Denver to be with my kids and grandkids. Completely changed my life. I am grateful to be with my family especially for the holidays and being able to see my grandkids grow up.

I am 62 and my wife is 66. We were going to retire this year and pursue my dream. We would have her full social security and my early social security as a safety net, if my "dream" fails, financially. A few months ago, she got a promotion at the nonprofit where she works and asked for another two years before we retire. I of course said, "sure." She got a small raise, but she is getting great satisfaction from improving her agency. As with any organization, there is a certain amount of infighting. Every single one of her former detractors has come to her and told her that they were wrong about her and what an excellent job she is doing. There is stress, but less so over time as she fixes problems, including "problem" personalities. I was a little resentful at first, but she is so happy and feels so good about herself that overall I am infused with joy. Our marriage, which has always been perfect, is even better. I thank the Creator every day for my life, and it's all because of her. I just hope I have the energy two years from now to start a new venture.

I completed an act of charity/kindess this year and uncharicteristically kept my good deed to myself. I feel proud of my actions. Perhaps it shows a sign of maturity and growth.

I moved to a new city. The whole process was very stressful, but also very exciting. I am so happy about my new job and my new home, and I look forward to meeting people and making friends in my new city. I am hopeful that I will do well in this job to prove to everyone (myself included) that I deserve it.

David & I moved cross country. I was just finishing my first semester back into school. I was so happy and proud of myself because I was FINALLY back. That's when David told me that he got a job offer in Georgia...where I've always wanted to end up. I don't think either of us really weighed the pros and cons. We just saw "WARMER WEATHER" and went. Now, 3 months in, I finally got my first job offer (part time, minimum wage), have to keep spending money to fly home ever 2-3 months for my braces appointments, I'm not in school again, and I am lonely. I am grateful that David moved me to the place I've always wanted to be. I am relieved that David makes more than enough money that I don't NEED a job. I am resentful that I am not in school and can't find a job. I am inspired because this opens other doors and experiences that I never thought we would have.

My mother broke her hip, had multiple strokes, transitioned into Hospice and passed away in my home. It gave me many opportunities to show my gratitude to friends for their help. It hurt me that we struggled to reconcile. I worried for her spiritual well-being and she for mine. I am relieved she has passed because she was suffering. I am resentful my husband left me during her passing because I was so frightened.

Thanks to a group of brave friends, I was inspired to learn to play the violin, and am delighted with the progress that I have made. The experience has made me sensitive to the needs of busy adult learners, and has given me a great appreciation the instrument. Looking forward to the coming year of lessons and playing this instrument in a group with other musicians.

I have quit medical school. Hasn't been very long, nothing is certain yet and I cannot tell what will be in the future. What I know is I am currently very happy about the situation and it is refreshing to look to the future with optimisim and ambiguity for once. Relieved would probably be a correct word to describe how I feel about life. I know it is very soon to say but at least currently I am feeling no obligation, no duty or expectation on me. It's awesome ;)

I graduated from undergraduate college feeling ready to take on life. Little did I know that after college there's no "office" to help you, no professors who's job is to educate you, and no relationships that are formed through a mutually shared experience. Maybe these aren't hard "no's" but it certainly is a lot different. I'm relieved and I feel fortunate but I'm also scared and nervous - all in a good way. I decided to move out to California and this will be the third state where I'll spend a significant amount of time (relative to my age). It's never been more clear that while we are all Americans we are also 50 different mini-countries united together. We all celebrate the 4th of July but we don't necessarily have the same cultures and values. My biggest worries are still the challenges ahead of me. Social Media is how I loosely connect to the friends I've made in the past but I don't feel any less lonely. I'm amazed and inspired by them and I hope to do equally great things. But of course, whatever these 'things' may be, that is all yet to be determined. I wish to build new skills while I still can and learn as much as possible. Right now with Ebola, Russia-Ukraine, Gaza conflicts, etc. there are so many issues that I feel powerless. I wish there was some way I can contribute, even if I could throw money at the problems, but I don't have the resources nor intimate knowledge to assist someone else much less a pet - I'm barely getting by for myself. Anyways, I'm born to a mother who's mother is a Kaifeng Jew and while I'm very disconnected from these roots I figured 10Q is both an interesting thought experiment and a way for me to feel connected to my origins - plus they aren't tech-savvy enough to use social media so maybe I'll send these to them. I don't know if I'm doing this right but I like it. I hope everyone well! Looking forward to tomorrow's question.

I separated from my wife of 19 years and moved out of the house. It's been an emotional roller coaster. Relieved. Grateful. Resentful. Angry. Happy. Thinner. Remorseful. Hopeful. Scared Shitless. Often all of those things coursing through my nervous system within 30 seconds. But it's getting better.

One evening I looked down at my husband's hand and saw his grandfather's hand instead. Embracing that the hand was my husband's aged hand was a significant moment for me. Resentful - - yes, where did the time go? Fearful - -that we are beyond /the best is yet to be/. Angry - - that retirement is not even a dream for him. Inspired is what I yearn to be -- inspired to be in each moment with him, inspired to make each day /the best/ inspired to find ways to have our own retirement even if we have to remain employed to get by.

Hot air ballooning over Capadocia Turkey, amongst over 80 other hot air balloons. It was so surreal it felt like I was in a child's story book. As a child I went to Disneyland and was dissapointed. I thought it would feel like magic.. But it was a fun park, very real and not what I had imagined in my head. My hot air balloon ride was the "magic" I was seeking as a child and I am so grateful to of had that feeling/experience as an adult.

Devastation in the marriages of 4 friends! Also, problems in my own home. It made me very angry but I am grateful for some positive outcomes in that individuals, including myself are doing a more intensive introspection on themselves.

About 3 weeks ago, I found out a friend of mine unexpectedly passed away. I didn't feel its impact at first, since it had been a long time since we'd seen each other last. As time went on and I thought back to the times we shared, I realized that the loss was significantly greater than I expected. She lived her life with a special kindness, elegance, and consistency rarely found in others. And she is a daily reminder for me to be the best person I should be.

I was let go from my job. It obviously affected me because I won't trust people so easily. I think I am relieved that I don't have to be around horrible people all day. Although I like my new position, I don't think I will be here for long and I am looking for a new position already. Also, my grandmother passed away. She had been sick a little while. I am afraid that with her gone, the rest of our family will drift apart. I feel bad for my mom because I don't think she has grieved legitimately.

My daughter was doing a year abroad and after the year was up got a job there. I miss her physical presence. When we are together we are happy to just sit. I am happy for her because she is happy and getting to meet other people in a new country. I miss not being able to see her but I am grateful for Skype.

Of all the things that have happened my senior year of college, the most significant experience has been the one with CLIMB. CLIMB has been many things for me- an adjective, a verb, a noun- it has described all that is beautiful in my life; it has been the action of pursuing the impossible; and it has become the positive lens through which I see the world now. My fellow advisers in CLIMB, especially my co's, as well as my 9 perfect no-so-little campers, bring me hope and joy every single time I think about them. I do not fear for the future, because I know they will fill it with goodness and love. I forget how lucky I am that such a program brings together the most finely selected human beings who have molded and shaped themselves out of the depths and fires of the own hells they experience in their daily lives, heroically, vulnerably, and always with love.

The most significant experience this past year was the fatal shooting at Village Shalom, a retirement/assisted living center in the KC area. A woman in her 50s who visited her mother every Sunday was shot in the parking lot by an anti-Semite. I'm in my 50s, I visit my mom there every Sunday, and I was in the parking lot with my daughter minutes before the killer and victim arrived. This happened in April, I believe ... I haven't fully "bounced back" yet. Still processing the shooting, the proximity, the hatred, all of it. How did it affect me? I don't know that I have words for that ... it shook me. Does that make sense?

BEING IN GRAD SCHOOL! I have put to rest my ponderings about what it might be like, I have discovered my tribe of classmates and consultants, I have connected with teachers who believe in me, I have raised my standing in my own opinion with regard to other therapists and professionals, I have opened the door to innumerable job opportunities, and I have fulfilled my responsibility to live up to my potential--especially with regard to my parents who have invested in my development. Yes, I am grateful. I have always been a psychotherapist at heart, and now I am gaining the credentials to match it. Yes, I am relieved. I made it through the fear of what it would be like to deal with the pressure and stress. No, I am not resentful. Yes, I am hugely inspired. Nothing is as exciting to me as learning from therapists about therapy. Yay me!!

I got divorced. My wife of 26 years moved across the country, and I stayed in the bay area. It's made me sad, freer, lonely, introspective, hungry, maudlin, and restless. I have no idea what my life will be like a year from now. So much is in flux that I can't be certain of really anything at all. I don't even know if I'll be living in this house. I've had to trust myself to a degree that I haven't in a very long time.

I was diagnosed with skin cancer. It scared me. A lot. And it made me change so many habits, from how I take care of my skin to how I eat. But it also made me more conscious of paying attention to my health and my body signals. I waited a long time to see a doctor and now have a nasty scar because of it. I am grateful it wasn't more serious, and relieved. I am more vigilant with sunscreen and my family. I want to do my best to ensure they don't have this down the road. I hope in the future I remain as committed to my health as I am right now.

I sang at 2 Karaoke parties. For someone who majored in voice, this shouldn't seem like a life-altering feat, but Karaoke absolutely terrifies me. I decided that I wasn't going to just not sing, because deep down inside, there's a person who would be seriously disappointed to let the experience pass her by, and this year, that girl won...twice. I want more of that. There's a lot of scary things in this world, and sometimes, you have no control over them. Other times, you can say, "Screw you, fear! I'm not going to let you ruin this party."

This year was one of the most eventful years of my young life. I cannot simply choose one significant experience -- they were all significant. They all shaped me into the person I am at this very moment. Some incredible, once in a life time experiences, and others were horrific and traumatic, and hopefully those were once in a lifetime, as well.

There are infact 2 significant ones, both related though and thats 2 family members that passed away within 5 months of each other from stomach and colon cancer respectively. So many thoughts still go through my mind about both of them and now I realise how they uniquely affect me. I have become more aware of my health and more grateful for it and my remaining family especially my parents. I complain less about when Im out running and must apply that more to life in general. I really have nothing to complain about. The experience to see them slowly die away form being healthy throughout my life was a separate impact all together. It still is strange sensation to see them wilt away especially Aleem bai. I must connect more with my family, engage in uncomfortable experiences more. Life really is too short

The most significant experience in the last year has been sending Davey off to college. He has far exceed all my expectations as a student and an adult. It's a very ofdd feeling, knowing that this child who's nose you've wiped and butt you've swatted, is an adult who is fully capable of functioning in the world completely independent of you. The resulting feelings that it has inspired are vast, but a few would be pride, awe, a little bit of bafflement, and relief. I smile as I write this.

Within the last year I moved to Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Being an introvert, this experience encouraged me to come out of my shell and get in contact with others. It also gave me the opportunity to discover a new country, culture and language, as well as to meet extraordinary individuals. I am grateful for this experience that changed me in a good way and made me learn a lot about myself and my limits.

I started dating Andrew. It has been an experience that is scary, reassuring, comforting, and so much more. It's the strangest feeling to both love someone and yet know that you can't be in a relationship forever with them because they, in some way, don't complete you. I feel as though I am walking a very fine line between loving the moment and everything we experience together, and worrying about when and how it will end, and hopefully with minimal trauma to both parties.

This year I prepared, presented, and received my signatures for my Thesis Proposal. I was very relieved and proud to get it out of the way and to have done it successfully, but after a little bit of momentum immediately following the presentation, I have had trouble motivating myself for continued progress in the research.

I quit my teaching job and had a complete career change. I was deeply affected by this decision because I was very passionate about teaching and it's what I went to college and accrued over $64,000 worth of debt for. I am grateful, relieved, inspired and not at all resentful because it was a decision I made to better myself. I was miserable teaching and it consumed my life. Now I have a great job that isn't consuming but yet still challenging, a baby on the way, an actual social life, a great second job coaching, and I can truly say and be confident that I am happy!!!

The birth of my son, Matan. Yes, relived that everything went well for mom and baby. And so excited to have completed are little family.

In spring after a year of very trying and exhausting personal life issues, I asked the only man I have loved to move out. He did and both of us were devastated. It seemed, at the time to be the right choice, given the circumstances. I spent the summer reflecting, hiking, camping, reading, and missing his love and him terribly. From the moment he moved out, he never stopped communicating with me. He knew my tendency to close down and push people away in the worst of times. We started talking and going out for coffee, then food, then drives, and a weekend get away, where we knew that we needed each other and I knew that I was safe with him. It is the first time in my life that I didnt completely close down and move on. I am so hopeful for myself and my future having dealt with and moved past this in a positive way. And I am so eternally grateful that he saw the hurt and fear in me and stood by and had the patience to wait.

I reached 60 and also am five years cancer free. I am grateful.

My mother died this past summer. I felt relief. Though she was a good person, she was chronically unhappy. She had no close friends by choice, and hated her family. I was the only person who interacted with her on a regular basis. Needless to say, she was a challenging person to love; she was prone to dark bouts of negativity, harshness, and violent ideation. I'm relieved she has finally found peace in death. I'm grateful I can send lovingkindness to her whenever I think of her.

Filming of my video. Was amazed I could get it organized and completed. Yes, very grateful, relieved, inspired, and felt God's presence before, during and after the event!

At the start of the year I moved into a charming and tiny cottage in downtown Sebastopol with David Ray. He moved from LA to come live with me after deciding in August that we wanted to be together. We fell head over heels in love after knowing each other for more than 20 years. Our house is tiny and it took some time for me to get used to sharing all my space and a good deal of my free time with another person. Also I have struggled mightily this year with radical mood shifts, severe anxiety, and other forms of mental inclement weather. It's like Kansas in there these days-- not sure if this is for reasons pre menopausal or otherwise, or just from returning back to an artistic and more rigorous sensibility after abandoning art and writing altogether in hopes of finding some relief from the ambivalence of being. Choosing to not engage with certain questions, pulling away from the materiality of life, escaping into spirituality, surrendering, forgetting, floating in a permanent present. David and I met under literary terms, under poetic circumstances. We both valued the majesty of language and art for the meaning and articulation it could bring to ordinary life. It is rigorous living the life of an artist--it requires that you push back against the world, that you dynamically and without apology tell the world what you think of it. I lost my way over the years, finding ways to skirt showing and saying what it was I actually believed about anything, hiding behind material already written and people with more clout, collecting rather than creating. My mind got weak from not really engaging and trying to accept everything, not wanting to confront--I don't know if I'm making sense, I've gotten to where I talk around things, theorize, approach and then back away, there's a muddled passivity about my way of being that I didn't notice until David and I began to spend so much time together. I'm not sure exactly how it happened or what exactly was happening. I could have been turning into a kind of wizard mystic, for I wasn't far from renouncing the material world altogether. That seems to happen to a lot of aging people in this geographical location-- they get more sun-bleached and beatific looking every year. There's something surely blissful about letting go of the human struggle for meaning and just deciding to be like driftwood and polish and hone your being on the earthly elements at large. But allowing oneself to drift there is also danger of drifting into an insipidness, a triteness, a doughiness of mind, a soft and passive premature death of sorts. I know this wasn't positive for me--that in some way I was drifting away from my own nature because it troubled me that I could no longer find the words to express myself, that I felt so flat and memoryless. It has been a struggle to regain these old powers I once took for granted but they are beginning to come back. The shift from one kind of life back to the one I originally burned for was painful because it was a complete about-face. But it feels now like I'm facing in the right direction. I am eternally grateful to David for pointing me back in the true direction of my true vocation. And that neither of us has to go it alone, what a miracle.

I lost my first child in the early of this year. I have been trying to get pregnant for awhile and I finally did. I think I only be a mother for 3-4 days and the child is miscarriaged. It is painful. I cried for couple of days. But God helps me to go through it. Now I have faith that God will give to me a child when the time is ready. Any I named my lost child Joshua. I will see him one day in Heaven.

The one experience that has touched me the most this past year is my ivf cycle, how I had put all my hopes into this one time, my dreams my desires and my future, all my positive energy out to the universe, it had to happen! But it didn't... but the hell I went through after the failure, I see it now as necessary. I've come through to the other side, and I look back and realise how much I've learned about myself -and life- in this difficult time, and how much still to learn! Strangely although still longing to be a mother, i feel grateful for this painful experience, as it has connected me with my inner self, that otherwise I might have missed, and it has put me in a new path in life, one full of joy and pain, of acceptance, compassion and love.

This year I took an emotional risk and it didn't pan out but I am so proud of myself for taking it that the result seems beside the point. It was a wonderful reminder that, although it feels scary, risk is the only way to move forward with anything, ever. I've been trying to remind myself of this every day. It's funny how often I need reminding and still have a hard time remembering!

I moved out of my apartment where I was living by myself, into a house that I purchased with my partner, her 2 daughters and a cat. Everything is upside down. I no longer live in the city, shopping is not walking distance away for healthy organic produce etc. Have to take my car to get anywhere. I was also let go from my job I had been working for the past 4 years due to internal reorganization and reduced need for my skills. I'm neither grateful, relieved, resentful or inspired. I'm just readjusting and doing my best to learn how to be in my new reality. It is, to say the least, interesting! And challenging. And I know it was for the best. Can't wait to see how it all turns out down the road. Life is like that.

I was laid off from BAC in Apr... Shocking, hurt were my initial feelings. However I soon realized that I could do anything I wanted to. I started working out more than not. then came around the end of the severance period. Stress started again... climbing upwards... savor (of sorts) became NGIC job offer. I was saved from returning to the Bank. The atmosphere was great, young, refreshing, less stress... So in the end very grateful that BAC let me go. Today - Bored about not having enough work. Need to ask for more work. Change your place and change your luck, return to your strengths, do not allow your bad habits back.

I got married just before the high holy days last year. This has been a huge change in my life, and is something I am eternally grateful for. While my wife and I had been together for quite a while before our wedding, it symbolized a coming together of families and traditions, as well as the formation of new traditions that I've enjoyed greatly. Most importantly, it's so wonderful to have an individual to share so many experiences with - both the good and the bad, but mostly the good.

My friend experienced a late term miscarriage, so I felt a lot of sadness and anxiety for other pregnant friends. The selfish reflexion was how out-of-touch I had become with my extended friends who are my true family.

I think the biggest event last year was my 4month in Thailand + 2month in Lithuania holiday. So half a year in total. Amazing time. Had a lot to think about and a lot of time to try not to think about anything. Time to unlearn the crap that needed changing. Met new people who I would like to call friends. New experiences, new girlfriends. Keep talking to Joop even after 5months. I needed this time of doing very little, scuba diving with others, waking up on the boat, looking at the morning sun and going diving again with happy people. Well they all seemed like they are looking for something too, or going away from something. Experienced how simple is simple life. Travelled with only 35litre big shot backpack. Could just scooter around or go to the beach and read the book, sit at my porch in Khaolak... Vivek in Bangkok and Pattaya, Miki and Miho in Cambodia. Andreas, Phillipa, Alex, Will, Seppe, Koen, Gordo, Dave in Khaolak. Jum, Joop... Miss them all. Oh and Karolina + Zilvinas too, need to keep in touch with them. So happy I've taken this long holiday, even though I'm still paying back for it now;) Very insightful experience was coming back to London and First 3weeks watching life go by like from slow motion movie, but all others are in fast forward movie having their heads stuck in phone screens. Few later i'm with them in the same zombie crowds, doing the same things. Headache is back. Same problems are back. Today started therapy with psychiatrist Agne. Liked our first chat and will do everything it takes to get my head cleared and define as much as i can my life goals and whats stopping from moving forward and getting rid of headache. Back to the question, I am grateful I've taken this long holiday to reflect back on my life. Relieved that I can see change is coming closer and closer. Inspired to keep moving forward, because I know that happiness, freedom and better life is somewhere here, just have to open the right door for it!

On August 17th my Grandmother passed away, she was my favorite person in the world. Her son, my dad, died when I was young. Ever since then she has been my source of strength and support. She has been the one place I could always go for love and never felt guilty showing up feeling like a puddle and just being taken care of. Now, almost exactly one month later, my dog died on Monday my dog died. My best friend is gone. My life feels so lonely. I am so angry at the world. I am so mad at god. I am disappointed in life. I feel like I have lost my most loved ones, and the idea of going on is so hard. I'm tired. I'm sad. I wish the next year to feel completely different from this one.

I celebrated my father's 90th birthday at various times through the year: I spent the actual day of his birthday with him walking at the beach and then took him out for a dinner at a waterfront restaurant and ordered a surprise chocolate cake. We had a great day together. Then my brother and I organized a small party at a Thai restaurant with some of his friends and our friends who have known my father for decades. Best of all, I hosted my father, my brother and his family at my house in Italy for two weeks in August to share time together as a family celebrating my father and our family. Each of these events was celebratory, rich in meaning and created powerful memories for all of us. They gave me a feeling of having made him feel loved and appreciated by us. He survived the Holocaust during which all of his immediate family was killed in a camp in Riga. After such a traumatic and horrific beginning I wanted him to feel that the later years of his life were a complete contrast to that. I think we succeeded. My primary emotion when I think back on this is gratitude that he is still with us and that our relations are a gift and a support to him, as he is to us.

I ran a 1/2 marathon last January. It was an amazing accomplishment though I also hurt myself in a way that resulted in knee surgery and no more running, at least to this point. I continue to feel like I want to run, but have not figured out the right way to get started. So, I'm confused, I'm relieved, and I feel guilty about letting it get so far away from me.

i moved in with my boyfriend that i thought was the perfect man for me. after about 11 months, i've realized that he stopped trying and i have been the one trying to improve things. i'm sad and a little bit resentful.

Met the man of my dreams. greatful and relieved. feel loved more than ever before.

I retired from full time work in August 2013. Over the past year, I tried to figure out how I wanted to spend my new free time. Here's what I've done: I got a dog; I found exercise classes at local senior centers (after being worried that everyone would be "old", I discovered that nearly everyone was older and FIT - way more fit than I am!). I started a small consulting business and actually have a client (!); I registered for a Shakespeare class and an Art Appreciation class. I gave myself permission to read (and nap) in the afternoon, and once or twice, I even watched TV during the day . . . something I've always associated with being a bored (and boring) person. I'm still finding my way, but feel great and love being retired. So in answer to the question, all of these experiences have been significant, and I am grateful I have the good health and freedom to explore all these options.

Had someone sharing the household with me leave. Then I saw her jump from the 'frying pan into the fire.' [Viz. The job for which she moved out of town was a "dud." And, she moved in with a complete psychopath, who thankfully left soon after of his own accord.] I felt moved by her follow-up experience. I totally empathized with what she went though, and realized how hard I could have fought for her to stay with of I had only thought she might do so.

I hit rock bottom in my career. I questioned if I was any good at my job, questioned my competency and was depressed at work. This effected my home life as well. I was resentful, mad, scared frustraited.

Weird things happened. Things unraveled quickly in my grad program and I realize it was me who was doing the majority of the overreacting. We don't stop growing up once we reach 30. I am grateful that I was able to negotiate my way (with the help of 3 wonderful people at my university who will sponsor me and care about me). My husband got the perfect job. My kids continue to please and amaze and challenge.

I have had many significant experience(s) this year as I have been traveling to seemingly every corner of the world, (courtesy of a buddy pass from my roommate who works for an airlines). From Dubai, Israel, Hong Kong, Mexico, three trips to Vegas— and I will soon be off to Tokyo for a month. I have seen and learned about so many different cultures, there are so many more places I want to go. I feel incredibly lucky to have this opportunity. My travels this year have also cemented my belief that it’s important to live in different cities and countries, for at least a few years, even if it's scary and involves culture-shock. It will be hard because of my severe FOMO (fear of missing out), but I know that it will be worth it.

My dog Lucy died. I loved her with such devotion I wasn't sure how I would ever start to feel normal again. While I know that love for an animal is different than a love for a human being, it is a painful experience to lose something which has become part of your family. The responsibilty of caring for an animal, if done correctly, is huge - especially an animal who was battling a long illness. When that responsibility ends, establishing a new routine feels awkward. Keeping perspective is difficult and coping with grief, which most people don't understand, feels lonely and uncomfortable. At some point you reach a stage where you feel relief that your duties as a care giver are over. With that relief comes the feeling of tremendous guilt for feeling relief in the first place. It is an emotional roller coaster until you finally settle into a "normal" phase where you can look back on your time with your pet and feel grateful for having had them in the first place.

This year I started college at OSU! I am so grateful. I don't have any complaints about OSU. I definitely made the right decision to come here and I've met such great people. Everything about Ohio state is great, from the campus, to the city, to the school, and the people. I am so happy to be done with high school and move on to this very exciting part of my life. I'm impressed with how well I'm doing on my own. The transition is not as hard as I thought it would be.

At the beginning of June I walked out on my job. I had been with the same company for fourteen years. During that time so much happened in my life. I graduated from university. My brother got married and 5 years ago his daughters were born. Seven years ago my sister died. Through all this the job stayed the same. It was reassuring, easy, constant. And in the end monotonous and depressing. If I had stayed, I might be writing this five years from now, but sooner or later I had to take this step. Change is not easy for me. I see walls, not doorways. I thought I knew what I was going to do, but I realise now that this transition is going to be painful. I have to believe it was the right decision. A relative told me recently that I should never regret anything. But every choice has consequences. I'm going to have to live with uncertainty for a while. I don't know how things will be different in 12 months, but they will be different. Better, I hope.

My daughter and I are individuating! After 26 years of tremendous closeness, healing and FUN, we are embarking on our separate (but always still lovingly connected) journeys into our own Personal Sovereignty. At first it was BRUTAL. It started just after I broke my arm in May, which left me feeling very alone & uncared for. Somehow, I pulled through and got dearly supported by the Universe (and my Self) leaving me significantly stronger, brighter & more independent. I still get triggered by feelings that assault me into believing I am having a sad, bereft life. I feel stuck & paralyzed, alone & unalive. I don't think this is because we are individuating so much as who I was born to be. Breaking through to the other side of THIS is what I most want to do, be & have. What energy, space & consciousness can my body and I be to bring this breakthrough?

I stopped going to my brother-in-law's house because he and I really don't get along and it's always at best uncomfortable and at worst really nasty. For much of the year we met only on "neutral ground." This has meant I've missed my sister's company, many family get-togethers, and not been able to have my son go to visit. Very recently, I accepted an invitation to share a meal there and things went well. Then another invitation came - so far, things are amicable, but we're moving cautiously. I'm a little relieved but mostly still anxious about what will happen when the "honeymoon" is over. It will be VERY interesting to see where we are in a year's time when my 10Q rolls around again!

One of the most significant experiences that I have gone through in the past year was when I injured my arm playing baseball in June. I was participating in a highly regarded national tournament in Georgia where my injury occured. While I was pitching in the sweltering heat in the late afternoon, I felt pain in my arm which caused my pitches to be slower and flatter than normal. I found out a couple days later that I had tendonitis and my arm was inflamed. I was devastated because the doctor told me I couldn't pitch until late August. It was one of the worst things that has ever happened to me because I felt that my true passion was taken away. I could not help but cry because I loved the game so much. Throughout the recovery process, it was tough to me to watch my teammates playing from the bench knowing that I would do anything to be out there. My injury also inspired me to work as hard as I can to prepare myself to be in a great position when it subsided. I dedicated myself to being in the best shape ever to prove to other people that I will be the same player. This injury, my first one, taught me that I am a strong, resilient person who can overcome anything.

In the past year one of my most significant experience was meeting my boyfriend. With him everything is a little bigger, better and brighter. He believes in me when I am in doubt. He cares for me when I am unwell. He is there for me when I need love, support and care. And of course, I do all these things for him, too. Life is good! I am grateful. I am humble. I am a better version of myself. All because of him.

After a quick, 2 year marriage, I'm getting divorced - and I've never been happier. It's given me amazing clarity into why I got married in the first place (maybe it would give me direction where I didn't have any) and why I chose a person who I knew had faults I couldn't live with (re-living past traumas). It has catapulted me back into self-refelection and growth that I had been trying to avoid. Taking a hard look at my patterns and trying to break the self-sabotage cycle. It's been great!

I had my twin babies this year, nothing could change your life more. I am grateful but also sometimes overwhelmed. Every day I am learning who they are and getting to know them. I thought my life would be unlivable without children but I also had a romantic notion of what having children was about. Now I realise it's mainly about continuity, sleeplessness and washing up. But you have to try and remember to have fun and laugh. I want to be a better person to help them grow up with good examples to follow. Simply by being here they make me aware of myself in a long line of people, families and love.

After a long search, years not months, my sister was able to get a job and I was able to help her get it. I felt a sense of gratitude and relief.

Landed a new job after being laid off in 2012. Grateful to find a great, permanent position with a young and promising company. Relieved that I now have employer provided health care. All this and an increase in salary too!

We Pivoted. I was working on a startup in IT Infrastructure and our partner pulled out their support for us. At first it was a little demoralizing. But my partner and I took this as a sign that we need to find something we are more passionate about. We started working on helping people meet and make friends when they move to a new city. While our business has ultimately evolved and changed from this original mission, the startup is not entirely our own. We are able to create the culture we want and drive towards a goal and vision that is entirely our own. This process has made me more fulfilled and incredibly happy.

My friend's son committed suicide. This had a big impact on me. It could be because I also have a 24 year-old son, or because I work with a lot of young adults in my counseling practice. Perhaps because we lived in the same small community for many years and both families have moved on. I did feel sad and resentful that we could not be closer to help her. But I feel I was able to help her from a distance - and I am now very inspired to help other young adults.

I went to Ireland! It's the first time I've been out of the country since a high school trip, and it was glorious. Magical. Every bit of it. It made me want to plan a thousand other adventures immediately!

In March 2014 I discovered my husband was having a relationship with two women via text messaging and phone. One was someone I did not know the other was someone I considered a friend. He claims that they were only by text and phone. He logged over 800 text messages in a three month period. Under the threat of retrieving the text messages I forced him to tell me what was said. He confirmed that they were affairs in the sense that he broke our vows by desiring other women pursing them relentlessly. He insists that he did not have physical contact with them, although most of his conversations were of a sexual nature. Of the four marriages I have had I would have never guessed he would have this behavior in him. He claims it is a flaw of his - that he pursues other women because he finds it exciting. He insists that he loves me and promises that he won't do it again. I feel compelled to believe him. And this is NOT in my nature to do so. In the past marriages when I have been betrayed I have called it off - taken the high road out! I wonder why I don't feel that way this time? I believe it is because I am older and not willing to uproot until convinced he is hopelessly addicted to his behavior. I am committing time to him to prove his faithfulness. I have told him that should it happen again I will be gone. I do not feel that he will repeat his activity but I am not sure. I was SO sure of his commitment and loyalty prior to this, that I wonder if I truly am a fool, again. Time will tell. I am angry, sad, furious, hateful, resentful - all of these and some of these in waves of pain. I am grateful to have found out as I do not have time left in this life to waste. Each moment is precious to me. I feel my years are slipping by and many have already been years I would not want to repeat. I want my experiences now to be experiences I WOULD want to repeat! I want them to be experiences that make good memories. Memories that will be with me forever - even carry me into senility, if that's where I end up. I know there will be the not-so-good experiences, but the good should out-way the bad. Regret should not be mine to pause over. I will do my best to ensure I live the best for the rest of my time. I must insist upon the same desire from my partner in life, my husband, my (hopefully) best friend.

My best friend and I got married in Las Vegas. It was strange, at first, having the "title" attached to our name. Eventually we realized that nothing had changed...except for "the title". I am extremely grateful that life has given me the chance to live and share my life by his side. There is never a day when I regret marrying him; he is my rock and support. I hope and try to be his as well. Neither of us had the desire to have children, until we met each other. Our love inspired such tenderness our heart that, in the future, we would love a baby. Never resentful of our lives together!

My mother has Alzheimer's and the disease has significantly progressed this year. She has the biggest smile when she sees me for our weekend breakfast dates and gives me a enthusiastic hug and kiss. When I was growing up mom was not an affectionate person. So I appreciate the warmth she shows now and at the same time I am so sad that it is a symptom of her disease getting worse.

The most significant event that has happened to me in the last year has been my move to DC. I graduated from college moved home and a couple months later got a job and moved to DC. One of my best friends from high school and my college roommate already lived here when I moved. That was a huge safety net. I would have been completely different if I had to start from scratch. I actually haven't really made any genuinely new friends. I have become friends with some people from college that I didn't hang out before and their friends but no one entirely new. I just love living in a city, making money then going out to dinner or shopping, grabbing happy hour drinks. I just love everything about it. Well I don't love my job but that actually isn't that bad. And hopefully that will change soon. I have decided to be proactive. But Dc has been wonderful. Keep it up DC, I know everyone says your not New York but I still like you.

I got married in July 2013 at the courthouse, and then we had our wedding this past July. I am truly blessed to have my husband in my life. We have our challenges, but I wouldn't trade this for anything.

My grandfather passed away in June after a 7 year extended illness. We all knew this was coming, that his quality of life has suffered dramatically for a long time, and that there was going to come a point where his body would succumb to all the forces working against it. I thought I had prepared myself pretty well for the inevitable, but I couldn't stop crying when my dad called me with the news. And I broke down quite a bit during his funeral and during shiva. I wasn't particularly close to him before he got sick, and I spent a lot of my life not particularly liking him either. When he got sick, he became a different, warmer person. I wish I had known him that way when he was healthy.

Two surgeries for fertility purposes and although grateful, also very humbling. I'm still reflecting and finding peace.

I traveled to NM, undertook many activities in 13 days and realized I'd attempted too much. I couldn't absorb any more and exhausted myself for that time and about 4 weeks after. Since then, I've been slowing down and am grateful I'm learning to be content and fulfilled with a more measured pace.

I came back to work part-time from taken a a couple years off for maternity leave. I felt fortunate that I had the option to return to my current position and current pay after taking so much time off. I feel fortunate that I have been working long enough that my employer recognizes my value and is grateful for my return. Most of the time I enjoy having this as an outlet from home. It feels good to have adult conversations, contribute intellectually, feel my work experience and judgement surface. I regret coming back when I see office politics come into play. I don't like having to put in additional hours when I have things to do at home with kids and family. I do feel guilty when my child expresses he would rather stay home then go to preschool and extended childcare. Everyday I give credit to working moms. Everyday day I give credit to stay at home moms. I appreciate my stay-at-home mom and finally understand. I wish I would have treated my own mom better.

Deciding to leave my job without having another one lined up, and live in my parent's basement if I need to, is not something I thought I would be doing, but I am feeling a great deal of peace these days, not anxiety! I'm grateful I built up the resources so I can take a loan from my retirement plan, grateful that thought my relationship with my parents has its ups and downs they are have been supportive and are opening their home to me, and grateful that I have enough confidence in myself and abilities after all these years of proving myself to know that I can find something that I really like that will use my skills better than my current job does. I'm ready for the next step - DC has been where I lived for 10 years now but it never felt like home. I've had two serious relationships here (including one marriage), bought and sold a house, moved 5 times, had 5 jobs at 4 companies, and saw dozens of people come in and out of my life and had the pleasure of some of them staying.

Probably the most significant experience, in a year of fairly significant experiences, was my second miscarriage. My daughter's nickname was Koopa, and maybe if I'd known it would be her only name I wouldn't have gone off her ultrasound resemblance to a video-game turtle, but then agai, in the months since she died-without-having-lived, I've come to feel that "Koopa" isn't that bad a name. Kind of pretty, in a quirky way. How did it affect me? It fucking devastated me. After three months of walking on eggshells, afraid to get attached to this pregnancy in case it went the same was as the first one, I'd finally allowed myself to be happy, to hope. I was in the second trimester! We were in the clear! Only we weren't. And at first I was pretty zen about the whole thing, which my best friend chalked up to the crazy hormones no doubt surging through my system. But then, almost a week later, I hemmoraghed and almost died. And once I recovered from THAT I was... less zen. It's been four months now. I should be seven months pregnant. I'm not. But I am in a much better head space than I was, say, three months ago. Or even two. Hell, I feel better than I did one month ago, so here's hoping the upward trajectory continues. I don't regret the pregnancy. I don't regret that I got further along this time, because I got to see Koopa's heartbeat, got to see her kicking and spinning like the soccer-playing dancing-queen she no doubt could have become (or maybe a parkour expert? I don't want to limit my ghost-baby). As sick as it may sound, I'm actually GRATEFUL that I got to birth her at home, that I got to hold her in my hand. That she wasn't monstrous, as I'd feared, but tiny and perfect. We've recently decided that we'll try again, one last time- but probably not until a little later in the year. Part of me wants to wait until Koopa's due date (12/04/14) passes. But we'll see. Shit happens, after all, and all you can do is keep going until it gets a little better.

My mother-in-law became a widow recently. Her relationship with me had been one of attempt at to control, dismissal of relevance and interest, and blindness to intent. Her interest in my life and her granddaughters and even her son was always tempered with self-interest which was aimed solely at her husband (my husbands step-father). In the fog surrounding the death of a soulmate, for the first time I found her lost and undirected. I hadn't intended to take part in assisting her with funeral preparations, but neither she, nor my husband were capable of direction on how to perform the task. With compassion, I guided her through the mundanity of the moment's preparations as I have often done with disregard. To my surprise, that one event has allowed her to view me with different eyes and approach me with an attitude of tenderness unexperienced in the last 31 years even though I have not changed in my approach to her. Be it the continued selfish insight into needing someone to rely upon now that she is alone or a true understanding of my value as another human being with no strings attached, I do not know. But it is a drastic change and I'm grateful for it.

Helping advise my grand daughter about preparing for nursing school. It was a great pleasure to know that I was doing something of value to someone I love.

I met my boyfriend. It has affected me in huge ways! I had been pusposefully celibate and single for over three years due to a history of painful, unhealthy relationships, and wanted to break whatever patterns were leading me to participate in them. I knew that the relationship I needed most was the most important one - with myself - before I could ever hope to find true love with another. Years later, when it appeared I had finally found a way to love myself alone, I had finally admitted to myself that maybe I was ready to share my world with someone else. And then, without even looking for it, three weeks later - boom! - John popped into my life. He is an exceptionally kind and gentle man, who only approaches me with love - something I hadn't ever experienced before. Learning to fall in love again, when my concepts of what healthy love were impoverished at best, has been challenging and amazing. I have felt so many things in the process - excited, scared, delighted, curious - and feel blessed by it all. I know this relationship will open me up to a whole new world, and I look forward to sharing it with John. :)

If feels a little like everything this year has been significant. I started 5774 in Philadelphia, having just packed up my apartment and getting ready to head east. I spent Yom Kippur with Ariel and Eric and was in the UK by Sukkot. Then orientation and starting classes and meeting the other MAs and drinking white wine with Rebecca and applying to schools suddenly and grandmom dying, also suddenly, and writing my essays in the community room at Parc and getting my first grade back and not knowing what it meant and needing to live up to expectations and getting an interview and having sleepovers and deciding to move to Chicago and traveling and writing my dissertation and moving back home and moving to Chicago and orientation again and starting classes again and meeting the other students again and now 5775 is nearly here. It's almost impossible and somewhat mind blowing to realize that all happen in one year. I have to think, though, that the most significant experience was getting into Northwestern. Not just because it changed everything that came after and will change everything that comes after this. I honestly believe if it hadn't been Northwestern this year it would have been somewhere else next year. And not just because of that moment in the library sitting next to Lola and Lydia when I read the email. What is most significant are the many ways that I've replayed that moment and understood it differently. The fact that I've looked back and been impressed by it. The fact, mostly, that I don't look back in surprise but have instead allowed it to change my personal mythology so thoroughly that it seems right and correct and not surprising at all. I'm able to look back at a moment of success and see it not as a stroke of luck but as an appropriate response to my skill and hard work—as something I deserved because I earned it. And that moment, that shift, is extremely significant. And I'm proud, not just of the achievement, but even more so of my ability to see myself more clearly.

I broke up with a boyfriend who I dated for over five years (age 17-23). It's been over a year since it happened and I've experienced everything from anxiety, disappointment, deep sadness, regret, anger to some relief, thankfulness and peace.

We welcomed an exchange student into our home this year. It is momentous but ordinary all at once, mostly because this particular student is extremely even keeled, helpful and friendly. She has made the transition to having her part of our family much easier than I expected. I was a bit worried about how all this would work out, and especially about being the responsible party for a teenager, which is new. I am relieved that the entry was accomplished so easily and am optimistic that the year will go well. How much our daughter may gain from the experience is unknown but hopefully something. Early signs are not optimistic but surely over time and with more interactions she will learn from and about this one student and her country and culture.

I interned in oncology and I watched people die slowly. I tried to walk with them and offer some kind of comfort, though there is no comfort. It took me to places of courage and grief and love that I could not have imagined.

At the very beginning of 2014 my mother passed away. Her decline spanned what seemed to be a protracted period of time (two months). I became very ill myself with a bronchial virus and asthma which threatened to turn into pneumonia. Her death was a very different experience for me. She was the second of my parents to die, my father having preceeded her by six years. My mother and I seemed to always have a contentious relationships. I was a disappointment to her in many ways. She was physcially, psychically and emotionally abusive to me for all of my childhood and into my adult life. Towards the end of her life we reconciled somewhat. I tried to forgive her. However, when she died I felt cheated, alone and resentful. I hadn't received the support, encouragement or love which I deserved and now I never would. In the past several months I've sought out the help of a therapist to begin to deal with the many residual issues, memories and effects. It is helping.

I got a job. It wasn't the job I was hoping for, or the job I was looking for. I wasn't really looking, actually, which was part of the problem. It has been a challenge, this position. There are a lot of family systems issues within my team, and they play out in the workplace in sometimes baffling ways. I can't tell if I will be adored or ignored when I arrive at work each morning. I have, however, had the opportunity to hone some skills in just showing up and doing the best I can, without expectations. I've also, for the first time, gotten my work drag in line. I don't freak out every morning for fear of being discovered as the fraud I often feel like. All in all, it has been more of a means to an end than anything. But it pays well, and I'm learning, and for those things, I am grateful.

My parents decided to move to Savannah, GA, from California. It threw my world into a tailspin as I have lived within an hour of them my whole life (37 years) and see or talk with them almost on a daily basis. They had been the primary caregivers for my twins since they were 4 months old (now 5 1/2). I was initially hurt/sad/resentful and felt like I was being abandoned. After speaking with them on my feelings it was clear that they hadn't anticipated how their decision would really make me feel. This caused me to question our family relationship and communication in general. Now that they have moved I'm doing fine, as are the kids, and I feel that the negative impact I was expecting on our end hasn't happened, but it has been more of a challenge for my parents (mom specifically). I feel that this is one of the biggest life changes I've faced and I've come out of it better than expected, while a new understanding of myself and it's helped me in my emotional growth. I do think it's making a big impact on my relationship with my parents though and I can see us growing apart in coming years so I feel there is some underlying resentment within me that needs to be explored.

I experienced more deaths in the past year than I have before - my good friend Jon died but 3 weeks before his death, we went out to lunch - he ate his whole sandwich and we discussed life & politics like old times. I am so grateful for that day and determined not to pass up opportunities to spend time with people who are dear to me - 'to-do lists' can wait.

The company I run had significant business growth, based on an industry announcement, which I had been working on for 3 years. I was grateful that it happened, and grateful that my staff, and the company's board trusted me enough to follow my lead, and maintain patience that "doing the right thing" pays off.

My husband got a job at Deloitte that requires that he is away for most of the week, making me a mostly single mom. I'm mostly okay with it, but having a tough time dealing with the daily house, cat, and childcare on my own.

Had my first baby. Forever grateful that after so much trying, hoping, praying we were blessed with a baby. Relived that he is now strong thriving and growing. Not resentful, but since it happened months after loosing my mother it makes you wonder. He inspires me daily to make good/better choices in life. Because of him I quit smoking, cut back on drinking and am happier. We also bought a second home and moved. I disliked the idea, did not like the smaller size of the home, moving away from friends and family, but with all of the life that happened in the old house it is nice to have new happy memories in the new home. Change is hard.

I got divorced last year. I thought it was the greatest thing ever, i thought i was free. i lost tons of weight and thought i had it going on but i never fully let go of james and he didn't let go of me. i experienced some weird, selfish, and maniupulative men. basically i discovered every man is not going to love me the way james does. we got remarrried in march. im grateful and relieved. he is the definition of what it means for a man to love a woman.

I moved to Cape Town from Durban on the 15th May. A day after my 3rd year divorce anniversary. It marked the start of a new beginning, a full recovery and a time for me to create a brand new life for myself.

I upped my working hours to full-time. This made me feel: - Grateful because I get to do what I love, and was able to stop watching the clock throughout the day, always needing to jump up and run to get the kids or be somewhere and "fit" working hours in in between. It was so nice to sit down at my desk in the morning and focus on my work, knowing that the kids are well taken care of. - Resentful because although my husband was very supportive of me working more, he did not have the time to pick up any slack. There were months when I struggled, trying to figure out how much to outsource, and how much I could keep doing, while he just went about his day normally. He was very supportive of me outsourcing but didn't help me do it, and while I figured it out, the kids routinely ran out of clean clothing, and nobody had thought about what was for dinner until 6 pm when we realized there wasn't much food in the house. - I feel more pressure from a work perspective, now that childcare expenses are more significant, my business needs to compensate for that. Six months have passed and the pressure is being relieved as I see that my business is doing very well and the extra child care expenses are definitely justified. - Happier, because I love what I do and I'm good at it, and I finally have the time to focus on it.

I am grateful and relieved that we got CSLA funding for Jeremy. I now feel propelled to make sure his future is going to be successful and he's able to live a meaningful life living more independently.

My husbands son moved in with us. I want to put time on fast forward. Can't wait for him to finish school and move out. I never wanted kids EVER. Now I feel like a bloomin' house-elf in my own home. Actually, at times I feel pushed out of my own home. I work from home, and all the extra everything makes it nigh impossible at times.

mom's dementia got much worse this year. For all intensive purposes, i lost my mother. can't hold a conversation with her or ask her about family history. it is scaring me...do i show signs of it now...when i can't remember or find the right word..is this to be my fate too? i am scared.....

Almost a year ago, I met someone who left me speechless. It was unexpected. Now, I'm grateful for each day that I'm lucky enough to spend with them.

I was with my son and brother when they went through the Landmark Forum (separately). It was immensely moving to see how they have changed and become more free to be themselves, to love themselves and others after the Forum. Hugely grateful.

I turned 70 last October after a tough couple of years. I was hoping 2014 would be better but it has been just as tough with little horrors instead of big ones like the year before (minor skin cancer, unrelenting utis, etc). I've been exhausted and depressed and then exhausted again. Looking to feel grateful anyway though.

I became pregnant as a result of a brief affair with a man who turned out to be homosexual. I was in part resentful that I miscarried before I could decide to keep it or not and that he ran away. However, I am grateful that in the end, it all worked out and I did not bring a child into the world who would have been fatherless.

The Birth of my first grandchild. I was amazed at the immediate love I felt for him. I have very grateful and it gives new meaning to my life and inspiration to plan for his future with his parents. This is entirely unexpected reaction that I possess, and hope to be involved in his growth and development in a very positive way.

My brother died. Mostly relieved for him as he was in very bad shape and without proper care. But, in disbelief that he is actually gone. Inspired by his faith even prior to his illness.

Getting the opportunity to teach at the college level has been overwhelming, humbling, but a tremendous growth experience for which I am truly grateful. I hope I am serving my students well, and not neglecting my family with the hours of prep work I am doing. I hope I get the opportunity to continue to teach. Even if I don't, however, I will remain happy about this experience and look for further areas of professional growth.

My two brothers and I accompanied our older sister to the hospital for her breast cancer surgery, and I stayed with her in her home the following week to help her during post-surgical recovery. But, she turned the tables and helped me instead! Many years earlier we had shared apartments and certain friends and experiences while living on the West Coast, but in the ensuing decades we lived in different parts of the country and lost that closeness. We were more acquaintances who spoke on the phone from time to time and saw each other occasionally. On this recent visit I learned from her much about grace under pressure, and tenacity and positivity in the face of very difficult odds. She has earned my greatest respect.

I opened myself up to a partner that I was falling in love with, for the first time. And it wasn't the right timing for him, and he broke my heart. At first, I felt so hurt I couldn't stand it. But now, I feel grateful that I was dating someone that I could actually fall in love with. I feel grateful that I'm finally confident enough in myself that I can label my emotions, and I'm not afraid to be honest about my feelings. I feel inspired to know that even someone who was not ready to be in a relationship could spend several months falling for me. And I know that I've already bounced back a lot, and will more. And so I know that, in terms of relationships, I've come a long way. I'm still not totally open yet; however, I know I will approach my next relationship with more caution, and less fear.

We went to India for a month. I found it quite inspirational at many levels. The poverty was extreme, but the sense of community strong. The colors and smells and sensual experience were intense - good as well as bad smells! Seeing people walking to water wells with pitchers on their heads looked like biblical times. It made us realize how incredibly grateful we are to have what we have. A most moving experience was visiting Sombeer's slum school. The joy and positivity in those children, some of whom were the first in the their families to have any education, was soul lifting. I hope that we can help them in the future.

This year I finally felt the true power of forgiveness--the lightness of being that now exists within me as I hold the gift of memory in my heart. I now fully understand what I have been hearing all along: forgiveness does not change what happened, nor does it necessarily change the relationship I have with the other person whom I now forgive; forgiveness changes the relationship I have with *myself*. I am feeling grateful that I can finally let go of the heaviness I have been carrying around for nearly 17 years!

My 25 year old son moved home. I am grateful, relieved, happy. He has matured into a wonderful young man. Responsible, respectful, thoughtful, all the hard work for both of us has paid off.

Lost My Home due to lending money (out of second mortgage) to a family member. How did it affect me? Confused

I have been dating someone for the past 2 years who is an alcoholic, and who continues to abuse alcohol. It has taken a great toll on me and my family, as I step towards the dream of us building a life and blending families only to have it all washed away every time she drinks. Again. Now she is drinking daily. I am resentful, gravely dissapointed, terrified, furious, grieving, and lonely. Very lonely for the big space that I made for us that is now empty.

I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Colon Cancer at age 44. I am a wife and mother of 3 boys and telling them I had cancer was the most difficult thing I have ever had to do in my life. This entire experience, though awful and challenging both physically and emotionally, has been quite rewarding spiritually. I have found a renewed sense of faith and trust in God, family, friends, and community. I have been able to share my experience with others. Both the physical difficulties of chemotherapy and the overwhelming joy and mercy of God's presence in my life. I am so very grateful to have experienced this. It has been a tremendous blessing in disguise. My faith has grown tenfold. I am fortunate to wake up every day to begin again. Who knows what is in store for me?

My daughter started middle school and left the cocoon of elementary school. It was a bittersweet time for me as my baby is taking her next step in growing up. She now comes home to an empty house for a couple of hours each day, and is responsible for starting her homework and getting ready for any activities that occur after school. I am inspired and impressed by how well she's taken to those responsibilities, proving every day that she's mature enough to handle this next phase. And very proud at her confidence level and her success so far.

I left my place of employment for 15 years to open my own business. Such a combination of emotions! I was sad and felt that every bit of energy I had invested in the old company for 15 years was wasted. I felt I had been naive and foolish to stick around that long. I was terrified of being out on my own, and so worried (still am) about the finances. But, at the same time, I felt tremendous pride and accomplishment in getting it done. The support from my husband was immense, I can never thank him enough! I feel that in some ways my health has suffered because of this. I work so much that I have no time for exercise. But, at the same time, it wasn't like I was exercising that much before, and I had been suffering stress-related issues at the old place of work. So, maybe it's a wash. Overall I'm glad I opened my own business, really, I had no choice. I was jumping out of a burning building. The owner of the old business was running it into the ground. Good decision/proud of myself/scared/hopeful

I got a new job It was a huge relief but also incredibly sad, to leave years of experience behind and do something different. It's a great challenge I'm enjoying meeting. I am less stressed, more fulfilled, happier and financially better off. I'm finding that actually I'm a very capable woman, I'm getting real confidence in my ability and intelligence, feeling like actually I did earn this, I do deserve it, I can do it well and that I am popular, personable and a good person

A close friend got a very bad diagnosis of cancer and it really impacted me. She is very young and I felt so terrible for her, for me for having such little time with her, and for her loved ones. It has come in waves and she is still with us, but every few weeks the news get worst. I have tried to enjoy our time with each other and tried to retain optimism. I have also tried to look at my own life and try to live it in a way that I would not regret it being cut short, although I do not feel that I have lived up to that at this point. Just trying to figure out how that should look moving forward.

This year my mother died (January 1,2014). My father has been dead for 2 years. Although I am married, have two children (both married), and 5 grandchildren, my mother's death has been a true passage. In a few ways I feel better. I feel freed from many things that have always pulled at me with out me knowing why. I think of my parents often. I am very grateful for what they gave me and did for me. I pray that they are at piece.

My moms health in its downward slide meant more dependence on me to prepare and serve meals, dispense her medications and manage all aspects of her life. This has continued to be both soulful and burdensome. As my own health is compromised I find myself sometimes resenting what I have to so for mom. Mostly though I feel blessed to have her live with me and she is constantly providing me with opportunities to stretch both inward and outward.

There have been many significant events in the past year, but the most important was the death of my brother-in-law. He was a good, kind-hearted man and his passing at age 52 profoundly altered my world view. It reminded me that we have one life, we don't know how long it will last, and that now is the time to get on with anything we value. I have gratitude for having known this man, and am inspired to push myself out of my comfortable, middle-aged, familiar world and try things I've put off, contribute to my community, and deepen my core relationships.

I got a job this year after four years of not working. I thought about what I like to do best and I pursued that field. My job is secure, challenging and flexible. I'm proud of myself for making it happen and grateful for the opportunity being there for me.

All I can think about right now is the death of my mother and the birth of my newest baby girl. To have a new life to take care of, and to have lost the one who gave me life- all within a month or so of each other, it's heartbreaking.

I got real clear and comfortable about setting limits. I told a BF that we were not going out anymore because of my discomfort with his relationship with alcohol. I told him without rancor or shaming and I think in a way that made a contribution to him and to me. I am grateful that I am comfortable being on my own. No man needed. I am relieved to have it end. I am inspired by my own respectfulness of others and myself and the boundaries/limits I am clear about/what I want for myself.

My son became engaged. I was excited, happy and relieved. After a five year relationship they finally made a formal commitment to each other and their relationship would move forward. I was surprised to have a lot of other emotions flooding through me and not all positive ones. I knew our relationship would be changing even more then it already had. Our connection and love for each other would remain but his first priority and allegiance would be to his fiancé. I have heard so much of what a difficult balancing act it can be once your child is married. I want to find ways to become a positive, supportive person in my future daughter in law's life. The other complicating factor is his fiancé is Catholic. While my son has a strong Jewish identity and is culturally Jewish he is not religious and does not observe any of the Jewish traditions. Their children will be brought up Catholic which will be a major challenge for me and my husband. During services this year I will pray for the strength to meet all these challenges and guidance to find ways to continue to share our heritage with them in some way and with their children if and when they have them.

My eldest son became/created the Rally Runner for the Cardinals. At first I was terribly embarrassed because this son has mental health issues and has been through so much... all his past activities were so negative and destructive. This past year, while they built their home, I watched a client of mine caring for her 18 year old autistic son and I realized that she had great compassion for him even though he was angry and difficult. I realized then (around April) that I needed to be more compassionate to my son and I decided to tell all my FB friends that DJ is the Rally Runner. I now support him in his efforts and I am not ashamed... I am proud. It is a huge change and it has been great therapy for him... and thus for me. I am grateful!

I was promoted twice. I am grateful. Not really relieved. Partially resentful. Not inspired. I am grateful to have a job, and to be showing progress in my career. That will look good for when it comes time to get a new job or go back to school, which I want to do. I am not really relieved because I had a job already, and didn't "need" a promotion; I just wanted one. And I didn't get the promotion that I wanted. I am lower in position than I feel I ought to be. So yes, I am a little resentful. I am resentful for Dhaval's outright lying to me about why I didn't get the jobs for which I interviewed under him. I have tried to get over it, in Buddhist fashion, but I am still holding onto that anger. I should definitely let it go.

A significant experience that has happened in this past year was me crying before mud hugs. I guess I still don't understand why I was crying (initially I think it was because I thought they were going to start without me.) Amy kept asking me "what's wrong, what's wrong" and the only thing I could think to say was "I'm a fourth year." I think that moment really solidified my camp journey and really helped me to feel, yet not understand the importance and significance of camp in my life. And of the people that I am so fortunate to have in my life. I have never felt more valued or more loved than I do at camp, and I can only hope that I can recreate that feeling in the future because I simply don't know what I will do without it.

I bought a house!! I am grateful and proud and STOKED to finally have my own place!

My mom passed away Sad

I spent a month volunteering in a school in India. The experience wasn't what I anticipated. The children we were teaching were intelligent and considerably wealthy. Regardless, the country was fascinating and the levels of poverty we witnessed elsewhere were shocking. The best part was the people we met and the friendships that were formed and strengthened. It was an incredible experience that I would definitely do again.

I was diagnosed with depression and ADHD. Medication helped with the former, but wasn't at all effective with the latter. I am grateful that I learned this about myself, that I finally figured out that I'm not lazy, crazy, or stupid. I wish the medications could have helped. It was very frustrating to hear stories of other people with ADHD finding life-changing relief through medication, and not having that happen to me. My spouse has been nothing but supportive throughout this, and has made it very clear that my ADHD is simply part of who I am, that I do not have to wallow in self-pity over it, and that I have managed to deal with it all my life up to now, so I shouldn't feel despair, lose hope, or feel that I have suddenly lost control. It has given me a different perspective on myself and my life, and has helped me stop beating myself up so much for being unable to do things that 'everyone else' seems to have no trouble with. I have my limitations, and that's ok. I don't have to be perfect, I just have to be me.

Two of my wife's cousins, brothers, committed suicide. Both by firearms, one locally, one out-of-state, three months apart. It devastated their family. Their parents got divorced. We try to act like everything is fine, but it's not. I personally made the particular blunder of waxing existentially about death in the presence of the mother, causing her to leave in distress (to which I later profusely and devoid of ego apologized for). It has put my personal nihilism in stark contrast. Even if this life has no lasting worth, it's still the only one I have, and I should put it to the best of use, if only because it's the best purpose I can muster.

I moved across the country. I signed up for Yoga Teacher Training. I'm finally starting to gain control of my life rather than just being pulled in different directions. I feel proud of committing myself to things that are important to me. I was scared to move though- not sure if everything would unfold as I wanted it to, but I've learned to be flexible and address problems as they arise rather than trying to plan everything to perfection.

The girl starting high school.it's such a big step for them and for us in terms of letting go and holding on.I am incredibly worried about them in very different ways.makes me think of my own parents when I started high school. With Mary turning two, it really illustrates how quickly time flies. In just 4 short years, the girls will be going to college. I couldn't have imagined that just a few short years ago-Angela is such an durable baby and adorable. With Maddy reexperiencing so much of her childhood trauma, makes me really grateful that I had Angela at such a young age.

I am pregnant now! Woo-hoo! It's a wonderful experience, and yes, I am very grateful (plus relieved too!) I am not resentful, and not quite yet inspired, but I do hope to get inspired soon.

I'm in the process of trying to shift my career, and it has proven challenging, mystifying, fulfilling, and scary. Some days I'm fired up for the next step. Some days I don't even know what the next step will be. Some days I just want to go back to the relative safety of my old life and wonder if I'm making a terrible mistake.

My son was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. It turned our lives upside down. My wife is the most affected by it. She wakes up in the middle of the night to check him and has to stay with him at school all day to monitor and treat him. I also do a day there to give her a break. She can't work while he is at school so it means we are especially tight on money. I am grateful that it is not something worse that is untreatable. I am relieved that we can still function. Sometimes I feel resentful. Not towards him but towards the situation. It has also brought us much closer together as a family and made us appreciate our own health.

My parents are experiencing the medical scares of many aged "vessels." No one looks forward to frequent and unexpected visits to ER's, surgical centers, and hospitals, but it is great that they are there for us when we need them. When our parents age and peel us from the doldrums of our daily stress, a visit to the hospital gift shop for something completely impractical and totally childish can certainly bring a few smiles to the faces of people struggling to find a comfortable seat on hospital furniture. As our lives become more entangled because of these "memento mori" pangs, we re-evaluate the cars we drive, homes we "own." minutes we spend, and lives we invest in. Family familiarizes us this the only thing we could ever truly need, "Be Here Now."

After waiting 46 years, I was FINALLY able to see Mount Rushmore this year. It was an incredible experience and I was awed by the monument to America's presidents. We returned that night for the lighting ceremony which had, unfortunately, been canceled due to the weather. At dusk, a ranger stood on the stage and played "The Star Spangled Banner" on her fife. It was an intensely patriotic moment! The next day, we drove to Devils's Tower in WY. I hadn't really been interested in going, but it was amazing! This time, I was awed by what God had wrought, rather than man. The two experiences, back to back, were truly inspiring! (And yes, I am grateful to my husband for fulfilling the #1 item on my "bucket list.")

Last year I was rejected for one new job and recruited for another. It has opened up a whole new world to change jobs. I am thrilled, scared, and not sure I made the right decision. It is inspiring to address new challenges.

I quit my job and went out on my own as a coach. It was a huge move that has been building for a while. I left my job on a massive high from a very successful run and it felt good to jump. I have become certified and ready to stake my claim in this industry. I feel so proud and lucky that I get to do this. I am also terrified as I want to be successful and contribute more to my family financially. I'm inspired - but scared I may not make it

I turned 60 and threw myself a birthday party. Almost all who were invited came. It was a blessing to have family and dear friends gathered. I enjoyed the sense of being celebrated, yet not being the center of attention. The web of relationships were the focus; people catching up, sharing photos of significant people and events. I doubt we'll all be together again.

Bought a motorcycle! Took a while to get back in the saddle. Put on almost 5k miles at this point. Really loving riding and the open road, again.

Some friends and my wife and I had a very uncomfortable encounter with Nature in Norway this summer. We were lost in the fog in a remote area of the highlands, searching for a hut 2-1/2 hours from the trailhead and fearful that we'd have to spend the night outside in a very windy, chilly, damp environment. We were all astonished and overjoyed when the fog thinned suddenly and revealed the hut no more than 60 yards away and we were able to sleep warm and snug in it as the only occupants. (No one else was foolish enough to have set out on the same trail that day).

We were able to spend Thanksgiving and a few days of Chanukah with our children and grandchildren in California. To be able to share these holidays together was wonderful, and produced great memories. But it also will make this year, when we are apart, feel much lonelier.

One night I couldn't stop crying because i missed my mom so much. Don't worry, she is alive and well, just not in the same country as me. I almost went a whole year without seeing her. Yes, we would skype here and there but I couldnt do it anymore. It was too much. I couldnt handle not being with her. She is my favorite person in the world. Luckily, it is now never going to happen like that again. Never. Shes not going to let it happen. That night inspired me. It inspired my to be share my knowledge in the world that not many kids have. Be thankful of your mother. Cherish every moment you have with her.

I had nasal surgery to allow me to breathe through my nose. Though elective, I am wondering how I ever successfully breathed before. I am relieved the anesthesia had no ill effect on my marginal kidney function. I am more confident about proceeding with future surgeries should I need one. I am grateful for my health care coverage which makes it possible for me to pursue optimal health in every respect. I am grateful for the physician who thought I would really like breathing through my nose and who did excellent work.

I learned how to forgive someone for not being who I wanted them to be. This has been an awesome lesson for me as I continue to practice forgiveness this year. (2014) I am grateful, relieved and inspired to help others with this gift that was given to me. Learning this act of forgiveness has been transforming and freeing for my Spirit.

One of the most significant experiences that has happened this past year is my beginning to volunteer at the county jail. Being able to share in the faith journey of others is a beautiful thing that has brought me much joy. It affects me in so many ways. First, I'm humbled by being able to be in the presence of women who have been through so much and are still standing. Many people judge those who are imprisoned quite harshly, but when I hear about what so many of the women have been through, I feel that I actually stand in awe of them and the burdens that they have been carrying. Secondly, it helps me to remember how important my faith is to me and how it has really been such a support to me in times of trouble. Hopefully, helping women be open to God's grace in these difficult moments will benefit them as well. Third, it has helped my own prayer life immensely. Sitting with the readings, praying with them, and preparing a short reflection helps me to feel as if I am putting my ear to the earth to hear the heartbeat of the Sacred. I am grateful for this opportunity. It came about in such a haphazard way and took so much work for it to actually come to fruition. But actually being there, being with the women, is inspiring. Sometimes I feel so heavy when I leave there because the ladies' stories are just to hard and often times their futures seem so bleak. But, I'm inspired to pray for them more, to work for reform in the justice and prison systems, and to enjoy every moment of the freedom that I so often take for granted.

One of my best friends died in her bed. Her husband came home to find her with the iPad beside her and her phone in her hand. She was not sick. It was a real sucker-punch for all of us. I've gone through all of the stages of grief, and now I'm dealing with the grief that comes with her husband moving on. Difficult, at best.

I received an annual job review that did not reflect my performance but was based on a personal issue my supervisor had with me. I realized that my effort, inteigence, experience and my professionalism wasn't important. I realized I am now being judged by my age, gender and who likes me and who doesn't, and I can be terminated at any time. I now feel fear at work, and realize that there isn't anyone to protect or support me. I feel resentful and fearful.

3 people in my life have been diagnosed with cancer (2 are terminal). It makes me feel like i should live for today and do all the things i want to do soon. Stop waiting... but we shall see if it takes

The most significant experience of this past year is that my husband left our marriage. Despite our troubles, I have been devastated. I have grieved harder and more deeply than I thought possible. Now, 8 months into this new reality, I am beginning to own my part of our failing, my anger, blame, fear, grasping, and how that has had a huge impact on him, and us. I see that I have been cracked open, my earth has been sorely shaken, but now I know I will not die. I will grieve my marriage, our changed family, for a long, long time. I am beginning to feel grateful, though, to my husband for having the courage to thrust me into waking up.

Crossed the Takla Makan, trip of a lifetime. Left me revitalised and inspired!

Started leading a chi gung class, of seniors like us. So rewarding, fun, healthy and some of the people even come back for more! It's free and freeing. Having more appreciation for well being, in our retirement time. Yay!

A significant experience I had this year was the chance to hike the Inca Trail. I was bewildered at the finish, when we reached Machu Picchu, that I didn't feel more elated. Everywhere around me, people were expressing tremendous emotional release and awe at the sight of this ancient city. I'm uncertain about my feelings surrounding the experience; the anticipation was certainly, for me, more exciting than the completion of the trek. I wish I had felt more grateful or inspired, but I seem to have lost the capacity for these feelings.

I finally got a great job in my own community! No more commuting (especially in the winter). My office is four blocks from my house. What a joy it is to have a slower-paced lifestyle, with the ability to come home for lunch to see my pets and enjoy my front porch. I feel more a part of my hometown, connected. The job is great, I love my co-workers. I'm being promoted (6 months after hire) to clinic coordinator. This is just the bomb. It took me 10 years of building experience here in Iowa and the right timing to break into a great job right here at home, but I did it!! I fully plan to retire here.

I made a life with Sara. We moved in together, learned to deal with each others quirks, and are now engaged. I happy and settled. I feel safe with her. I feel like a grownup, and that the pieces are finally coming together. I also feel more empowered to make choices. I am not locked into anything. She reminds me I can change.

I grew so much as a person. I found my faith again, I because closer with Chris, and I'm finally feeling at peace with life. I am so grateful. God has given me so much and I can finally see it. I can feel thankful for the life He chose for me.

Well, I was behind in a mechanics of materials class from the standpoint of being just a few points away from getting an A in the class. So, I studied my tail off for it. Even watched the Flyers game in the middle of the review session. That may not have been the greatest idea. However, it didn't matter because I got an A on the final. I did It. But when the grades went through I had a B+. I was outraged! I couldn't believe I had missed an A- by such a small gap. Even the tiniest numbers could be so important. So I went to the professor and asked him what my final numerical grade was. Sure enough, he had put it in the system wrong and I did in fact have the standing I had wanted. Am I relieved? Yes. Am I resentful? No. But I am inspired because I realized that even the little points can matter which is why each assignment, each grade, every point earned is a reward. Sometimes that little extra separates the good from the great, and I'm not just talking about grades.

Changing jobs (finally!) . I'm more confident, although more aware of my limitations. I'm both grateful AND relieved.

I bought a house! Ben and I moved in together to a house, even though my name is on the deed. It is very exciting, we're having our housewarming party this weekend. It should be great. I am also very excited about his ability to fix lots of things and stay motivated. It took us a long time to find one, almost 6 months and one sale that fell through, but honestly it fell through for the best.

In this past year, I found out that my husband had been cheating on me for over four years. It knocked my self-confidence on its ass. It deeply wounded me. It caused me to feel worthless and stupid.

I made a careful decision, including spending all day with the man prior to choosing, to entrust my life into the hands of an acquaintance for a three-week journey in Malawi in southeast Africa. Yes, I am all of those plus a dozen more adjectives: awed, mystified, enraptured, overwhelmed, touched, drawn, delighted, sad, amazed, challenged, stunned, changed.

Insisted my dancer sister ride bikes with me; she crashed and smashed her ankle. Her doctor-downer doctor described it as the break you don't wanna get. Now after two surgeries, and a lot of metal implants, she declares, "I have a clear path. I will do whatever it takes to recover." I am pained by her pain and inspired by her determination and grit.

There was a huge disagreement in my family that left me feeling isolated, hurt, angry, & confused. It affected the way I look at life, sharing, the amount of myself I put into others. Although it was very hard and my family & I will have to work hard to rebuild our relationships I am soooo grateful that it happened. It released something that allowed me to focus on myself and my purpose :) I am relieved to have this burden lifted but I also realize that I have a lot of work to do to rebuild my thought process, faith, and how I relate to the world. I think I would totally be a lie if I said I wasn't resentful. Being resentful is one of my larger battles. I am resentful over the time I have lost but still grateful. I need to realize how much this has helped me more than hurt me. My resentfulness is my one of my greater hold backs. I am definitely inspired to move forward and see the outcome of the new direction my life is moving. More importantly to not make the same mistakes, heal, and rejoice in for the new and be prepared for the next challenges to come my way :)

We traveled to South Africa. We thought deeply about racism in our own country. I am grateful for the opportunity to see amazing animals and people and places and geography - the Indian Ocean! a Black Rhino.

I raised $18,000 for charity this year. I walked 40 miles with Andie and Laura ( a fellow survivor) and raised $5,000 for breast cancer treatment. And then, with only a month and a half to train and raise money, I raised $13,000 to eradicate neglected tropical diseases. I climbed up to 19,341 feet with a group of 28 people (18 donating climbers and 10 guides) and raised $300,000. I only vaguely knew two people on the trip before I left. I met exceptional people, I tested my limits, and then I traveled for three more weeks in Africa. I had always wanted to travel to Africa and go on safari, and I did it and I did so much more. I saw lions and baby lions, I saw gazelles, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, pippos, wildebeests, caracals, cereal cats, hyenas, two rhino, baboons. And then I helped with a Red Cross program in Uganda. I met motorcycle taxi drivers in Northern Uganda. I met amazing red cross folks. All of it I had never dreamed was supposed to happen, but I did it as if it were always my dream. I'm proud of myself. I did it. I was scared to go because of all the tragedy at home and all the fear of someone needing me, but I did it anyway. I'm happy and proud and strong. I'm living life.

So many events this past year! I suppose I will choose moving away from the town where I raised my children to return to the town where I grew up. I am filled with hope and I am grateful that I have family to lean on.

I started college this year. While at this point it's relatively recent, I have felt myself change in some of the best ways. I have felt myself become stronger. I've really stuck to my values and have learned to stand up for myself. It used to be difficult for me to stand up for myself, but I now have become very vocal. If something makes me angry or upset, I will say something. It still feels weird for me, but going out on this new limb is healthy. I can't always work to make everyone around me happy. I'm grateful that I've found this new strength within myself, and I hope to see it grow into something even bigger.

I broke off my engagement to a woman I knew in my heart that I was not supposed to marry. I am exceedingly grateful, because if I had gone through with the wedding and stayed committed to that failing relationship I would not have fallen head over heels for the true love of my life. Fallen head over heels AGAIN, I should say, because he was my high school sweetheart, the only person who has ever loved me with their whole heart. We met almost a decade ago, and a large part of me always knew he was the one for me, but due to circumstances outside of both our control we couldn't be together until now. It's amazing how little sadness or anger I feel about the end of my relationship with my ex, even though she is the one who ended things—I just feel immense gratitude, and a bit of fear with regards to how close I was from missing out on this amazing life I'm now living.

Getting a new job and moving to a new city were huge things to have happen this past year. We partially moved in to our house in March, and then I completely moved in late September after getting a position at a new job. It all happened so quick too. The plan was for me to keep my job, and make the 1hr commute for a couple of years ... until things got off the ground with my husbands new business venture. Since I had the steady job and benefits, it just made sense. And then out of no where this opportunity came up in the city we were moving to and BAM! it all changed. Leaving the place that I had worked for 13 years was not easy. As much as it was a security blanket (it was all I had known for so long, and it was where I was 'comfortable'), it was also a shell (it was all that I knew). I left a lot of memories, good and bad, at that place. But it was a necessary break. It was something that was probably long overdue (not probably, it really was long overdue), and was totally necessary for my well being. And for us to really try and make our marriage work, it was something that needed to happen. As scary and as terrifying as it was, it has been one of the best decisions. Yes, I miss that city and I miss my best friend and my family. But leaving behind the weight that I carried around on my shoulders every day; leaving the feelings of confusion and inadequacy at my job ... it's been such a relief.

I just recently began to keep the Shabbat. I'm tithing like God asks and I have made a commitment to observe and celebrate the feasts. My life was financially, scholastically and socially spiraling down and I was getting soo very depressed. I could not find work and my pride would not allow family to help me. So after ending up in the emergency room I have made a 180* turn. I'm doing well in school, found a friend to help with the dyslexia Ron Davis program, I work part time when I want at gen-pak, I'm letting my family help me financially and I'm going part time at school to extend my VA post 911 bill timeline. I am supporting Israel with SUU CUFI we had a car float in the school parade. I got to hold the flag. I am still trying to find the kittens a home RMFR retracted their offer last minute but that's ok I trust God has a place for them. I submitted a shelter proposal to the city mayor and to the SUU community engagement center (CEC). I have a meeting with the mayor on Monday. I learned I have hashimotos and how to care for myself about inflammation. So I'm grateful for the changes that have come forth since I decided to keep Gods Shabbat. I am more inspired to keep on track with my aviation school and to not lose hope. I am so excited to learn all about the feasts and pray I may be in Israel next year for them. I am going to a synagogue to observe Yom Kippur and be mindful of the sacrifice Jesus has made for all for me. Even if it was just me..... Wish I could be a house of David and be immersed. Resentment....I have been upset because chazz did not act how I wanted him to he did not care for me like I needed. But I know now thank you Hale Dwoskin that I need to love him I can love him as is love the stuff I don't like because that's just who he is. And that doesn't mean I have to stay And I didn't. I'm resentful of the kittens because they keep crapping on my floor !!! I love them but they need to go. So it's not vicious on their part they r kittens still learning. I will choose to love them even when they dorky on my carpet. Oye'. Overall I'm just grateful for life for God making his ways known to me in a way that I understand that I am allowed to celebrate his feasts he wants me to even if not all my grandparents were jewish. :)

My parents began new lives. I am grateful that they are able to begin anew, continuing to discover aspects of their identities and of life that they had not previously had the opportunities to explore. I have been able to understand the discomfort of instability and insecurity, with the knowledge that few parts of life are permanent, and dependency can be as dangerous as it is cozy. For someone who rarely had to fear disappointment, I am now able to grasp how it feels to have no control over a situation, and for the results to be painful. I know that a fear of being alone is there, the fear that I will find nothing familiar in my life and be able to depend on no one. I am lucky to have lived 19 years without a sense of shattered safety, but now I fear I will not be able to find that trust once again. I have little reassurance in my life, and few people around whom I feel I can be vulnerable. Finding the strength within myself to forgive an unkept promise has been more challenging than I expected, yet these obstacles have allowed me to relate to others in the world who face this on various scales every day. For the New Year, I am looking to find ways to ground myself, to remind myself that I am safe, and I am strong, and imbalance is ok, because I am a constant in a world of change.

Significant experience? My Dad died 10 months ago. That'll tick that box. There are no positive emotions you can have about this. None. Don't even kid yourself there are. People might churn out that stuff about "it made me realise how short life is" blah blah blah, but that sort of feeling comes about a month afterwards and leaves again a week later. You don't have the energy for that shit when your Dad dies and you're left to help your Mum figure out what the hell her life now she's living it on her own for the first time in 40 years, for the first time ever; all while you're simultaneously trying to figure out what the hell your life is with 50% of its unconditional love cut away. Am I resentful? No. This happens to everyone; you can't resent something that's inevitable. But am I angry? Fuck yes. I have better things to be doing than sidelining my own grief to help my Mum through hers. But I've been lonely for years now, so I know what it's like, and I won't leave her to suffer its full extent, even if it means I'm losing out myself, losing myself. Even if it's dragging me down so far I can't see a way to recover the life I had and the person I was. I'm now just a floating face with the expression beaten out of it. I don't remember what my features looked like with light behind them.

I got to be present to help a beloved friend from going into severe dehydration shock. Because I'd been in this situation before and knew what to do, I'm doubly grateful (and, of course, tearfully relieved).

We were blessed with our son through adoption. It was a long and trying road to him but it was worth every twist and turn and I could not be happier. I am very grateful and blessed every single day but feel I should reflect on those feelings more often.

My father's death on October 5th of last year left me parent-less. Coming 2 years after my mother's death in December of 2011, it left me feeling more raw and exposed in the world. Even though I have been an adult for many years, having loving and supportive parents provided as sense of protection and safety. I am fully independent, but I always knew that they would be there to help me if a crisis should occur. Now, I am on my own (with my husband). I feel grateful for their long, full lives, and for the constant love they offered me. I feel sad that I will never see them, or hug them, again.

This May we took a family trip to Aulani, the Disney hotel in Hawaii. We mentioned the trip ahead of time to our 3 year old son - he became very excited about it. For the first time, he had the joy and excitement of anticipation. We had a great time. After the trip, he still talks about it 5 months later. It may be his first lasting memory, and our first shared family memory. So it is a major family milestone. I feel blessed and thankful to have taken him through this experience and shared it with him and my wife.

In August we had a family reunion on my father's side for the first time in 13 years, 17 since I had been to one. The reunion seemed very ragtag and unorganized at first, so I had to really twist my father's arm to go, since the man doesn't want to throw away money (or miles, even) on something unworthy. At the last minute, my brother also decided to come so 3 of the 5 blood relatives (minus my brother's kids) in our arm of the family made it. And what a joy the event was. Over 70 people showed up, and, yes, it was a little ragtag but who cares? It was so GREAT to see all those people. Even my understandably wary wife—70 members of my own family in one place? Yikes!—was charmed by the goodwill and congeniality of everyone. Much of my family has stayed close to the "homeland" (Minneapolis and Chicago, basically), and there was a little personal pride around how far our arm of the family had traveled from the original Heiman nest—PA, Maui, CA, and Mexico/Texas. Yet, I was a little sad that my life had taken me so far away and far removed from so many of these great people. Some of which won't be with us much longer. Who seemed to have an unspoken bond that did not include me. As I get older I feel the strong pull of family, the safety net it provides, the strength in numbers. I have some regrets about pulling so far away from it in the hope I would forge a more ownable identity. And that I never had children to keep the bloodline going, even if fatherhood is not for me. As the new year begins, I hope I can find more of the time to see family, whatever the differences. Here's hoping that at least I see more of my cousin Larry who has been living in San Anselmo for the last twenty years and I finally saw him again locally juts a few weeks ago. Blood is sometime just blood. But sometimes it's all you have. Don't let it slip away.

We got married. It was a long time coming and we finally made it happen. I still can't believe that between starting graduate school, working full time, planning a long distance wedding and caring for my dad that we pulled it off. I worry that there was so much going on that we didn't savor the moment enough. I am so grateful for Ken's presence in my life and for his unconditional love. And the laughter - the laughter makes a big difference. We have a lifetime of moments to savor together in front of us. I find myself trying to be more mindful of that - especially when we get overwhelmed.

Again, I write about losing a friend - this time someone who was young and dearly loved by her many friends and her family. This was tragic. I still feel bewildered and sad that I did not get to her, or did not know her pain, in time. She did not take her own life, but I believe she died of a broken heart. Interesting that "significant experiences" relate to pain for me. I could look to something more positive - like getting my Op-Eds published, and having an impact on the Opposition to Dominion Power at Cove Point. Maybe that will come up in another question!

I started a new job. It simultaneously filled me with excitement and terror. I am growing and stretching and sometimes I feel inspired and other times I feel exhausted.

This year, I faced antisemitism head-on, and it's lead me down a path to rediscover my Jewish identity. That has included teaching religion school, going on Birthright, and trying to figure out for myself what it means to be a Jew. It's left me really confused, because as a person who doesn't believe, it can be really challenging to figure out how to fit my Jewish identity into a life that has never revolved around one. I don't have a strong sense of community, don't really feel that going to Temple helps me, and don't find comfort in the local Jewish community. It's been really challenging, trying to figure out who I am, with little-to-no guidance.

I changed jobs. My former job was with the government and very stable. I left for a more dynamic role with a software company. I was scared but excited. The change inspired me. I am grateful and relieved to be doing something more geared toward my personality. It also enables me to be engaged with my clients, rather than in a more adversarial role.

The only thing I can think of is making the Dean's List at school for the first time. I had gotten the letter in the mail and was completely surprised by it. It was a good feeling.

This year I am up for tenure. I am so grateful that this has finally happened for me. It is hard for people to understand but if a person doesn't qualify for tenure, it basically means that they lose their job and may never work as a professor again. I have been stressed out about my job and keeping for the last five years. I don't know what I will worry about for here on out but it won't be this!

I began the last steps to finishing my bachelor's degree. I'm both inspired and grateful to have found something I feel fits my life and career perfectly. I'm relieved I didn't go barking up the wrong tree just to finish my degree.

We visited my daughter in Alaska. It was a wonderful family trip...lots of time together and great scenery.

I'm making a lot of sacrifices while going through school at the age of 52. One sacrifice I've made is to cut down my overhead and share a home with 5 others. The home was large, multinational habitance, but what I have experienced while living there is this: There are some people who are very inconsiderate, immature and no matter how nice or how many requests you have to make to ask them to be considerate of others, they just don't get it. When they don't you need to turn it up. One day I threw out a "house guest." Yes. I threw the asshole out. After my housemate came home with his friend after a late night of partying, drunk, they sat in an area that was not designated as a common area. They stumbled over a floor lamp making a crashing noise startling me out of my deep sleep. I checked-in to see what was going on and found the boracho passed out on floor over some broken household debris. Apparently, he missed the couch. I had an important test the following morning and needed my sleep, but could not get back to slumber due to these buffoons. Early next morning I woke in a fog. I text the house mate in charge to complain about the repeat offender about quiet hours. Her text back told me to take care of my dispute with the others. I thought my plan carefully, asked myself what if? Why? What I can expect after? While in that process, I've reflected that I've always been the nice guy, but most of my outcomes on setting healthy boundaries for these types of individuals somehow seem to fail. I arrived at my decision and on with my plan. I got-up, put my clothes on, and slipped on my boots. I walked slowly on the hardwood floor to the front door and propped the door open. Then walked heavy healed over to the unwanted guest and tapped the guy's hung-over greasy forehead with my stiff index and middle finger and while in his face, I quietly said "it's time for you to go. Now." He looked dazed, hung-over and pie-eyed with his random hair. I repeated myself. He slowly upright himself from the couch, reached for his phone and tried to text his friend to save his ass. "But why?" he whines. I replied "because one good turn deserves another, so OUT you go!" He kept texting, so picked-up his shoes and pack and him by the shirt and threw his sauced ass out the door. After, there was a displeasing commotion among the other housemates about the style in which I had handled the situation. I put in my 30 day noticed while in mid-term, which is suicide while taking intense college courses. It was a big inconvenience, but I managed to find a place and move-out. The semester turned out to be a disaster, but months later with hard work, I got my GPA up. Unfortunately, I have to take the course over. I can't say I was happy about myself, because it's out of my character for me to handle someone like I did nor didn't feel resentful. Before, I would never touch or hold anyone because it is an act of aggression, but I felt for once I stood-up for myself on a different level and I had showed-up for myself and my self-respect. Months later I caught-up with one of my past housemates and he said I was a legend living in the home, but the place is not the same without me. It's a flattering comment by, but I don't think of myself as a legend in that sense, but as someone standing for myself. I'm no different than the next guy who stands up for their self-respect. I now know how it feels and If presented the same predicament, I'd do it again and use the same processes before I execute. That you may retain your self-respect, it is better to displease the people by doing what you know is right, than to temporarily please them by doing what you know is wrong. ~William J. H. Boetcker

20th wedding anniversary and trip to Hawaii. It made me reflective and unsure of my personal direction. Since Jen was weepy and sad, I was disappointed and drank a lot. While we were together as a family, it felt less than perfect and shallow to some degree. It was beautifully sad.

I got my dog, Honey. I adopted her from the Cache Humane Society. She's become the light of my life, my reason for getting up and for going home. She brings me joy when I don't think there is any left in my life. She makes me smile and laugh. Just having her beside me every night makes those nights easier. She's helped me get healthy, to think about something besides myself and to be more outgoing with others. She doesn't allow me to wallow in depression or self-pity. She wants to go out and explore the world and she needs my help to do it. I'm so grateful for her.

I went through 3 miscarriages. These miscarriages made me feel angry and hurt, and yet brought to mind how fortunate my husband and I are for our very healthy and wonderful daughter. The experience made me much stronger, and also a bit harder when it comes to keeping a place in my heart for another possible pregnancy. And, retrospectively, I feel a strong urge to try again, bring another amazing human into this world made up of equal parts my wonderful husband and myself, give my daughter a sibling, and also create a crazier family. I love my family so much!

In the past year I was gifted a free ticket to a 3 day retreat/seminar for conscious women entrepreneurs. This weekend literally saved my life. I had been struggling with deep depression about the future of my career. I arrived feeling lost and hopeless. The moment I stepped into the room where the event was being held, I felt seen and understood, welcome and spiritually embraced like I've never felt before. I opted to join the year long course offered during this seminar and have not looked back since. I am so very very grateful and inspired by the program and the women in it. We are all building our life's work separately but together.

At the beginning of July, I phoned one of my closest friends that I had more than friendly feelings for her. After I think trying to process the information, she told me 3 weeks later that she didn't think we should go there. I am somewhat conflicted at the moment as to how I feel about this. I think generally I am glad I was brave enough to tell her - I think I would be feeling worse at the moment if I was still turning it over in my head, wondering what she felt for me. However, whilst I told myself being turned down was the most likely outcome, I didn't prepare myself really for this outcome and just imagined what it would be like to be with her. And I am still doing that now, hoping she might change her mind even though I know rationally this is unlikely. I'm finding it difficult to separate the things she does for me because she is one of my best friends and finding signs that she has romantic feelings for me also. And there are still a lot of unknowns. I think our friendship can recover at the moment - apart from not talking about the woman she is seeing, things have been pretty normal between us. But could it recover after a kiss, after sex? Could it recover if I panicked about commitment? Could it recover if I realised I don't like women as much as men? But ending up with your best friend is the dream. And I doubt I will ever find anyone as great as her to spend my life with.

My teeth were finally finished. I didn't realize how much I had been living without, having no teeth for 2 years and very bad ugly teeth since a botched surgery at age 12. Almost 40 years of smiling only behind my hand and pain in my mouth and always feeling ugly. It's only been 6 weeks of the "new me", and I still hide my smile or smile only with my lips closed, but I'm enjoying peaches and crunchy veggies, and I hope that when I read this next year I won't feel ugly or be so surprised when I see those funny white things in the mirror.

I got out of my soul-sucking call center job and into a new, pleasant, happy job in the field that I've always wanted to work in! While I learned quite a lot at the old job, I'm so so happy to be in a job that I actually enjoy and feel great when I come home.

I don't think there's one experience, but I traveled more. I handled buses and trains and planes and car rentals in places I had never been. I did it well and with minimal fear. I took some time away from my office and worked for someone else in a new kind of environment. And I had fun. I'm really proud of myself. I'm inspired to do more.

I went to Penland school of crafts! It was an amazing and immersive experience. It's hard to believe that in just two short weeks I could make so many close friends. I know that if I ever go back, it won't be the same, and that my first Penland experience will likely eclipse all others that I may have. I will always love the family built there: team wabi-sabi wasabi fibonacci lobby.

I watched my bride and her daughters turn the corner and walk down the aisle towards me. With just moments to spare before giving my vows I fell from head-love to a deep heart-love that has made me the happiest I have ever been.

I had spinal surgery nearly a year ago. It's been an experience I never envisioned for my life and it has taught me how capable I am to handle life's challenges. It has tested my patience and my pain tolerance while also helping me learn to rely on others for help. I truly hope that this next year will bring a resolution to this issue so that it can be a part of my past instead of my present.

The current job I have was part time and became a full time salaried job - after 4 years of struggling after selling my business, I am finally on my feet again- not worried-no longer stressed out about my mortgage payments, property taxes- able to relax again- go on vacation- buy things for myself as well as my family and friends- help take care of my mother- grateful does not even describe how I feel. Grateful, grateful, grateful!!!!

The birth of my son. I'm grateful for a beautiful, healthy, sweet baby - and relieved to be done with pregnancy and childbirth.

My cousin died. Sad, upset that we did not have more time

In the past year, a lot has changed and a lot has happened. I decided to quit sugar, which has had a tremendously positive effect on me. I am happier, more focussed, find it easier to manage my stress and anxiety. My thinking is more clear and a lot calmer. It is not completely calm, but this change has impacted me deeply and I feel like I'm only at the tip of the iceberg at the moment. I am very grateful for the experience, as it has allowed me to connect with myself again. I'm relieved too that my belief in it working came to fruition. It has inspired me to do more, keep experimenting and hopefully to do something with this knowledge and the tools I'm learning.

I got married! I feel sometimes like I don't really believe that it's real. When he and I are just sitting around hanging out, I tend to voice these thoughts out loud - "Can you believe we're married?!" His answers is always yes.

My significant experience is more of a general shift in my state of mind and being. I've become more sure of myself and of the person I want to be, so I've been able to make more specific and streamlined decisions about my future and my present. For example, I'm more comfortable telling people about my mental health problems - I was recently rediagnosed with bipolar II instead of depressive disorder and that alone has made a huge difference. I'm also more open about my religious and spiritual beliefs; this year marks my first time celebrating Jewish holidays and I'm lucky enough to have a supportive sister who's celebrating with me, though she's an atheist. The biggest and most significant thing has been my decision to return to university. I start up again in January. I've been confused about school and my career and my future for, well, my entire life basically. A lot of things happened to lead me to where I am now, and where I am is confident in my new path. I actually have a specific and detailed plan of action now. a BSc in Psychology, which will lead to graduate school and a career as either a clinical psychologist or a researcher in cognition (maybe both?). I want to help people and I'm interested in the mind so it makes a lot of sense, especially with my history in social work and philosophy. I feel excited, anxious, rejuvenated, and inspired by this new station. I'm looking forward to things to come and I'm actually confident that I can achieve my goals. This is something that I've never fully had before, partially (I assume) because I've never had the certainty that I do now.

I got married. I has made me so happy. I am with a woman I love more than anyone in the world and I am grateful for her every day.

My best dog ever died March 19th after being sick for about 5 months. She lived with me for 7 years and was my constant companion. Sweet, gentle, loving,kind....my friend. And I miss her. She has left an imprint on my heart. It was hard to let her go...Which is probably why I went over and above taking care of her..but she was happy and as far as I could tell comfortable until the last few days and then I was probably in denial that it was the end. Its like that song..the end my beautiful friend the end. I am ever so grateful for Josie...she was a gift.

The most significant event is that I made the decision in early 2014 to retire from full time work. And, I took concrete steps to make it happen. I sold my home and banked the money getting ready for the move back to the UK. I opened a bank account back home, got my driving license setup and began looking for a retirement property. It was a really liberating experience. Things that only a couple of days before I made the decision were of major importance, became unimportant. Yes, I'm very happy and looking forward to the move. There are going to be challenges along the way and after the move, especially living on a reduced income but for both my physical and mental health, this is the right decision.

I finally managed to get a job at the local aluminium smelter. Been trying for 7 years. This simply means I work just as hard as I was - but I'm paid a hell of a lot more. So blessed to now be able to pay off our mortgage in 5 years rather than 30 years - plus we are going on an overseas holiday for 14 nights.....could not have done that before. I am eternally grateful for this opportunity and am striving to do my best at work each day in order to reach our financial goals. Excited to payout that mortgage by the time I turn 50 :)

It was a little more then a year ago-June of 2013-I got to travel to Israel with my parents, children and husband for 2 weeks. So grateful to be able to take the journey, relieved (have never traveled to anyplace that I had to think about my safety) and inspired. The land was beautiful and so were the people. The most amazing place was to be in Jerusalem and to experience 3 different cultures living in peace with each other. So glad I got to experience this trip with the people who mean the most to me! To climb Masada with my husband and my 70 year old mother was amazing!

My wife, who has some pretty scary medical conditions stopped taking medication so we could try to have another child. She's a few months along now, and in truth more than anything else I'm scared.

My son got married. My husband retired. Both were extremely significant moments. I am grateful and relieved about both. They were extremely positive, but extremely stressful events.

My nephew passed away tragically at the age of 22. It has made me sad, reflective, and in some ways inspired as he had such a positive and profound impact on his friends and the people with whom in came in touch during the course of his short life.

Suicide of 2 8th grade students and the way they were portrayed after the fact. I am deeply saddened that two children with their lives before them were in so much turmoil that they felt their only option was to end their promising lives. I am frustrated that school officials chose to keep all ujnder wraps rather than using the tragedies as a learning experience for all the other MS students.

In the past year i have graduated from uni and have had my first year as a graduate. It has been horrible. 1 year from graduation i still have no idea what i want from life.. I am about to start a job which is the same job i had before uni. And it has made me ponder. Should I have gone to uni. What do i want to do with my life. And should i go back and try a more open and less specific degree topic? It has made me feel depressed, confused and altogether unsure on the future.

A friend from college passed away. She was only 30 years old and died from aggressive melanoma, leaving behind a husband she started dating our freshman year, family and friends. I don't count myself among her friends. We lost touch years ago, within a couple years after graduation, but she was someone I always thought I'd recconect with. It never occurred to me I didn't have all the time in the world to reach out. So it's made me incredibly sad, both because for a vibrant woman of her age to lose her life is undeniably tragic, but also because I let her die without having one more conversation with her, one more laugh, one more memory. I've been inspired to try to live more fully in the present, to not waste a single moment, to try to reconnect with old friends - but I feel like I'm failing. And in failing, I'm failing both myself and her legacy. I hope I can figure out how to do us both justice.

Without a doubt, the most significant experience that defined this past year for me was when my mother experienced a severe brain episode and I believed we might lose her. Now, eight months later, I am exceptionally grateful and relieved that she is well and suffering no major deleterious effects. It was the scariest moment of my life thus far, however, going through those moments actually left me feeling somewhat liberated from the fear that so many of us have of losing someone dear to us. In those terrifying moments, I knew that God was there. And I knew He always will be. And I was able to let go of a longtime struggle knowing that peace ultimately lies with Him, both here and now, for me and my mom, and in the future - in the place and time we cannot yet define. I am also so grateful for the healthy changes I've seen my mom make in her own life. The temporary upheaval and fear that she experienced has given way to a positivity and optimism that is beautiful to see.

In basically about a year, my dad was diagnosed with cancer, went through chemo, got surgery, and became cancer-free again. It affected me first of all by making me realize that my parents wouldn't always be around and I needed to grow up and become independent. It affected me second of all by turning me into an emotional wreck and inspiring me to do things that damaged relationships. And third of all, it affected me by affecting the way my whole family and I saw each other. I think we take each other for granted less, generally treat each other more nicely, and are more honest and open with each other.

I came out to a long time friend that I have been crushing on in the middle of the night in a church parking lot. He told me he suspected. He told me he wasn't going to judge me, but he also wasn't going to date me. It was a huge relief.

MY dear cousin has passed away from an illness that was poorly controlled. Part of me blames our thoughts and upbringing of taking care of everyone but yourself first. If he had had proper consistent medical attention his final days may not have been so tragic . the fact that his well being depended so much on misinformation and possible lack of funds and time for himself, frightens me. As head of household with my husband i see ourselves being complacent about health care . Our minor symptoms go unattended or self medicated with any common pain reliever. THe main purpose of our exsistance is basically to make a living. I realize how exhausting it is and what a toll it takes on your body and mind.I refuse to live like this anymore!!!!

There was an incredible moment this past year...the moment in which I received a call...a new job! And not just any job--the job I'd dreamed that I would never have--or at least, not until I was at least 45, and on job 2 or 3! I would now be the Cantorial Soloist at a temple right near where I grew up! Being given the opportunity at 29? Without any formal training, other than the joy in my heart, multiple years of educational training (gee, I guess the teaching credential will come in handy at the Sunday school!) , and a sincere understanding of the need in my heart for a serious change? I've never been more thrilled, scared, relieved, or grateful. The emotions vary day to day, but I'm getting through it. It's only been a few months so far--but they seem to really like me. I'm not sure what to feel quite yet, other than relieved that it's working out. I'm nervous about the high holy days--and about Shabbat Shuva, with liturgy I've never sung, and a community that barely knows what I'm capable of overall! I hope that the year ahead is successful...I've never done yizkor, never done sukkot or simhat torah...I really hope it all works out. I LOVE what I do, and each day I wake up more energized (and exhausted). This is just the beginning!!!

Almost one year ago, I came to a point in my fiction writing career where I could do it full-time. That had long been a major goal of mine. I still haven't quite come to terms with it. A lot of days, I wake up and wonder whether I'm really a full-time writer--whether I'm actually allowed to do this. Other days, I worry I'll fall of the rails, and get way behind on my projects. The main way it affected me was this: it caused me to form a new goal. A much more ambitious one.

Had a miscarriage in August. Sucked pretty much all round, although I'm mostly okay thinking about it now. The silver lining is that it brought me much closer to a friend who also had a miscarriage.

Our house got broken into twice in 5 days. I lost lots of jewelry that were connected with memories. I don't really worry much about my safety in the house, although maybe a bit more than I think; since my credit cards were recently stolen, I had a tight feeling in my chest for at least one night thinking that an intruder may have just walked into the front door and rummaged through my drawer while i was home somewhere. Possibly it felt worse than expected because I knew that it really was making Ben feel violated and I didn't want to be a part of that. As for how the initial robberies have affected me 1 year later...I miss my jewelry. I don't feel much excitement wearing what I have, as it will take time to acquire new jewelry and stories. I don't think I am as eager to have nice things in the house either, although I don't shy from purchasing things for convenience. Overall, I don't think I'm as enamored with the house either. That is, when we discuss moving from the house for other reasons, I'm not as attached.

I fell in love. It affects me in every way. Some days it's tough. Some days I'm angry. But every day I am grateful because I now feel complete. I know what people mean when they say that now. It all sounds really cheesy, but being with someone who understands and supports you, makes everything else fall in to place also.

Recognized in giving a gallery talk that my art work showing in several simultaneous exhibitions brings the fragments of my life together, that it gives voice to my hidden self, that now far from being hidden, my identity bursts forth and surprises me. That the death of my son with AIDS is no longer a private grief, but a public display using art to express my son's spirit. When I paint his abstract bones, they are in bright dancing colors. As an only child of Holocaust survivors, my parents tried to hide who we were, but now my painting allows me to locates a self and to share a history that I have kept hidden. The art exhibition of my bold, colorful and many layered paintings have opened a public door to a hidden self. Very scary, but exciting. I invite the world to see me! I am inspired!

My wife of 28 years and I went to an amusement park in September. She has always loved these, and her love for the thrill of rollercoasters, and of being in the midst of people having fun, made me (a person who is scared of rollercoasters and doesn't like crowds) love experiencing that enjoyment with her. She's always pushing us to go on every ride, sometimes more than once, until I'm so exhausted I can barely walk anymore. But this time, we didn't even do all the rides once. It was very hot, and she doesn't do well in heat. She also got tired very easily, and has a lot of aches and pains now that we're both older (as do I, but not as much). At one ride, we were too slow to get seats together, and had to split up. When the young ride operator tried to fasten the safety harness on me, I was too fat and couldn't ride, but my wife couldn't see that. I was somewhat relieved, as it seemed to be a very scary ride. My wife did the ride, not knowing I wasn't doing it too, but she did not enjoy it, and when it was done, we were too. It was significant for both of us to realize that we're getting old. For my part, I'm sort of grateful for this; I've always wanted to be older, and now I am. But seeing my wife go through this, it also makes me feel sad, and nostalgic for the times when we could be those strange old people who actually were having fun like little kids.

My father died last December. He had been ready to move on for the last year before that and it was a blessing that we were able to give him a good death. He was in his own apartment, surrounded by family, and pain free. We were all able to say goodbye and to help him take that final breath. It inspired me to begin the process of returning to nursing as a Palliative Care and end of Life pediatric Nurse Practitioner. I will finally be doing what I love and value rather then chasing the $. I have been Lucky to have the support of my new love who while coming late in my life is a true joining of souls.

This year or a few months before, I through routine blood work found out that I am HIV positive- really no idea that I could be. It made me very mindful of today, and taking personal responsibility in all areas of my life. It was a very scary time, as I know few people who are living with this disease as I lost probably 24 friends in the 80s due to it. I think I have handled it well, and medically I am stable, undetectable viral load. It did make me take stock of my life, return to church, read about spiritual things and try to live one day at a time. Some days are diamonds but other days I get caught up in" why me "and then the day becomes more difficult. I am grateful I do have faith in the God of my understanding.

I tore my Achilles and was laid up for over two months, not able to drive and 'stuck' on one floor of my house. as a very active person, I sunk to a low for a little while, then with the help of a LARGE group of incredible friends, I was inspired to paint large canvas quotes, create in clay and be inspired every day. These wonderful friends checked on me often, took 'the gimp' to lunch and dinner and took such good care of me. Talk about being blessed!

My wife and I decided to open a store-front business for our online biz we have had for many years. I felt nervous, apprehensive, excited about it. The actual build-out itself was stressful. But at the end of the day everything turned out well as it always does and we are set to get the store rolling. And I'm excited and confident for our future success.

joining the cast of Cabaret here in the Villages was very rewarding. I made some lasting friendships and re-ignited an old interest in Theater. I am grateful for new friendships and to be living in a magical place such as the Villages.

My estranged former fiance passed away from lung cancer. We were able to reconnect as friends in the end, which I was grateful for. I was still angry that we ran out of time.

I got a full-time job in a field I love, and in Seattle. Moving to a brand new city (although one where I've spent time in), starting a whole new life, has been gratifying and rewarding. It has its moments, but moving out of LA was the best decision I've made. I realize how I was no longer connected to the place I used to call home, and it was time to find a new place to call home. 11 (almost 12) months later, and I'm proud to call Seattle my home.

Without a doubt, the most significant thing that happened was the Gaza War. Beginning with the kidnapping of the three boys and the constant acceleration of trauma upon trauma. Their murder, the constant barrage of missiles against Israel... and of course the war with my son fighting in it. Seriously, the most difficult time of my life. All of those feelings apply. Grateful that my son was spared. Relieved that it's over. Resentful of the hypocrisy of the world - including our administration who used equating terror with defense as a thinly veiled attempt to mask their hatred of Israel and Jews. And inspired by our amazing country. Our amazing people. Our resilient people. Our generous people. They showed all of the chayalim, including my son, their support, gratitude and appreciation. One word that was not listed was PROUD. That's how I feel.

I sold my house andmoved in with my fiance and her son. I am grateful.

I moved out of home into Moishe House Sydney. Inspired is definitely the best adjective, but grateful is also close. I have so much power to make change now, power that I never had in AUJS. However, to be a functional independent adult, something that wouldn't have happened without Moishe house's generosity, is something I am unbelievably thankful for.

I think I have two - the first is the death of my father-in-law in Europe. My husband was away for 7 weeks over the summer. It was the longest we'd ever been apart and I really missed him. Our family life (just me & kids) was just not the same without him and I an in awe of everyone who is a single parent. I really miss my father-in-law who was a lovely and kind man - in an odd way I feel more affected by my father-in-law's loss than my own fathers (two years ago). My feeling is mostly gratitude and appreciation for my health, family life, children, husband, having a job. It has made me want to focus on the positive and stop complaining or yearning for things I don't have now. To appreciate my life and life it fully in every moment. The second (okay, I might have a third) is giving up (again) on what I thought was a dream delayed. For the past four years I was pushing toward something that I don't think really would suit me and that I don't think I want to do at all. I had a whole bunch of good "rational" reasons for going in the direction I was but in the end I just tortured myself for not having taken the steps to make that dream a reality. Once I gave it up I felt overwhelming relief. I still have aspirations beyond my current role/job but I can see now how to go in a direction that is more aligned with who I am, not who I think I am supposed to be. I feel as if I've learned this lesson two or three times in my life - I hope it sticks this time. Third and significant in a different way -I have been attending yoga regularly for the past year. I am inspired by having fulfilled on this commitment to myself and am hopeful that it will spur additional commitment to myself in terms of taking better care of myself, more time for myself, doing more of what I want, spending time with family, not being so 'busy" all the time.

I lost my virginity this year. Something everything said was so important felt like such an insignificant thing the moment it was gone, like why did I wait so long? However, it did lead me to question what my convictions truly are, and caused many of my beliefs and assumptions about God, the world, and myself to be thrown into the air. So, a simple thing in the moment, but one that's already sent ripples long into the future.

Getting ready to sell my house and recovering from back surgery, still recovering. Sorta' grateful, wish I were completely healed. Selling the house, prepping for sale really, so hard and not even done yet.

The woman whom I will marry went from distant optimistic hope experienced only through remote senses, to my best and most cherished friend. The progression that took place could not be manufactured. Something deep within me stood up, unidentified, and took the post of commander as its own. I know I want her, but the shadowed commander has decided that I will do something about it. On the outside, and by the outside I mean what I think of myself when I'm not trying to partition the causes and effects, this thing manifests itself as some kind of "hormonal effect" or "native instinct". Somehow I know that this thing, this part of myself that is taking charge and integrating my mind into the current stage of life like a black hole of responsibility is really something greater than what I may initially think it to be. This is more than culture, more than chemicals and hormones, this is a gift of God. I love the mystery at least as much as I hate my lack of knowledge! This beast is too good a thing to come from me and far too complex. I am a simple creature in my mind and the appropriateness of my current subject to the life at hand is of an applied propriety that only a supreme being far greater than me could bring into my life at this time. Thank you God, for giving me the will and strength to lead this woman who will be my wife!

5774 was a mixed year. My brother-in-law died of Lung cancer compliments of agent orange from the Vietnam War. It is very difficult to accept war as a solution to anything. Celebrated our 20th Anniversary on Catalina Island I retired from IBM on 31 Dec 13 after 18 years. I turned 65 on 9 Feb 14. Signed up for Medicare I worked at Home Depot part time assigned to the Service Desk from March - June I started a new job in May as a contract Program Manager for HP. Travelled to Hawaii in Dec, Cuba in Jan, FL/NYC/Bos in July

Last October my step-dad died. I was helping my mom care for him the last 10 days. My mom moved in with me a few weeks ago until she can find her own place. Getting to be there for his transition and to support her was an amazing experience, especially since I live several states away and the timing was tricky to judge. He was such a good example of humility, patience, generosity, and supreme kindness and grace at a difficult time. Now my husband is such a gracious and kind host for my 80 year old mother, my sister is such a dedicated support for our mom, and mom is such a considerate housemate. I am so grateful for these team players in my life.

In October 2013, my husband Bob and I went to Delaware to see the annual "Punkin Chunkin." This was a big experiment for us; Bob hates camping. However, the experience of meeting interesting people and having a fantastic time changed his mind. We have since purchased a cargo trailer and are in the process of setting it up as a camping trailer; it will haul the supplies while we will sleep in our van. We will finally get the chance to test our new setup at this year's Punkin Chunkin, and I can't wait! This whole experience has inspired us to think about how we want to live after we retire (if we retire, that is). We have been talking about traveling around the country, following our noses, camping as we go, and just experiencing the country at a slower pace. Only time will tell if we get to live that dream!

One of the most inspiring moments for me this year ws when I was contacted out of the blue to adapt an academic article I had written into a article for the Rhodes Journalism Review. Rhodes is one of the top Universities in Africa for journalism and to have my work recognised and selected was a true honour. Made me feel inspired and incredibly honoured

My mother died. My mother who I had no contact with for more than 20 years. There is a laundry list of reasons for this parting of ways.I am sad because I lost a relationship that at one time was happyish. And I am sad that my son did not have a relationship with either her or my step father. And I am relieved that this tension is finally over. And there is the guilt:) This happened within the last month so I am not exactly sure how I will feel next week, next month, or next year.

The passing of my mother. It has made me free from being her caretaker, so relieved for myself, and for the end of her suffering. I am also relieved of my resentment about her narcissistic behavior that cause so much hardship for me and my siblings, but I am grateful that the resulting hardships I faced as a child and as a young man have tested my mettle and strengthened me. I have gained the ability to carry much on my shoulders calmly for myself, my family, and for my friends.

My grandpa passed away. Through it, I discovered so much about the man that my grandfather was, and also about how my other grandparents caused a chain reaction in my parents in which I saw the truth of their brokenness in their inability to set healthy and strong boundaries. I am learning to be grateful for knowing the full scope of truth, and the grace that comes with it. That I am not responsible for thing that were not my job to teach myself at such a young age.

This year, I took charge of my health. I am greatful beyond measure that my actions have worked, and that I was strong enough to actually follow it through.

A year ago this Friday (two days from now), I was "broken up with" by two people, a lesbian couple at whose wedding I was the officiant, whom I thought would be a part of my family of choice for the rest of my life. It was heartbreaking, abrupt, and remains unexplained to me. In the year since, I've grown a lot as a person, but I still remain flinchy. I have trouble trusting my old friends, and am afraid to make new friendships, because I'm not sure that I can survive another hit like that. However, my life otherwise is so good and so full that I honestly have trouble figuring out how I would have time to give as much of myself to someone as a real, true, deep friendship requires. I'm trying to come to peace with just loving what I have, because what I have is amazing. But I still seem to have that spark of "I wish"... plus I miss my friends. Not every day anymore, but still often and still a lot.

In the past year, I entered my first relationship. It taught me that that I could love in a capacity that I never knew was possible. I am incredibly grateful for this experience--for the love it as provided me, the teaching experiences where I have learned more about human nature, and the companionship for many years to come.

I gave birth to my 2nd son Elijah. I am so very grateful

I was laid off from my job in January, and it was just short of devastating. It was the first time that I was let go from a job, and I had mixed feelings about being forced out that day. In order to cope with the situation, I decided to begin taking my Architecture Registration exams. In 8 months, I've passed four out of the seven exams, and I hope to be registered by next year. I also gained employment within a couple week.s It inspired me to take my exams and work on my professional development in an accelerated platform.

My best friend of 7 years, and next-door-neighbour, committed suicide. He blew his brains out. He left me a note and for me to find him. I landed up on disability and seeing a psychiatrist twice a week (still am). It has turned my world upside down. I'm incredibly angry, hurt, traumatised, it reignited my PTSD from a previous incident 12 years ago (surviving an al Qaeda suicide bombing). In addition, three months after this happened, 95 percent of my company was laid off, including myself. It meant I lost my work visa and my place in the Green Card track. Luckily I got sponsored at the 11th hour for another job but there was a real fear I'd have to leave the country. And then I hurt my shoulder and needed surgery. It's been a ridiculously tough and harrowing year. I'm amazed at how resilient I've been but there have been days (hundreds of them) when I've needed scraping off the floor.

I switched synagogues and I met a whole lot of new people

My husband and I reconciled after being separated for 8 months. I am incredibly grateful every day for the changes I made in my life and the ones my husband made and that we can continue on our path together. I was also very relieved to be back in a stable, happy and healthy marriage.

In the past year my long term relationship with my live-in boyfriend ended. I moved out 6 months ago and I'm still not sure how I feel about it. Some days I'm angry (that he moved on with another person almost immediately and expected us to be "friends"), some days I'm sad (I miss snuggling up next to him in bed at night), and some days I'm grateful (he made me feel bad about myself).

My first grandchild started preschool - he's nearly 3 and this is big stuff. Hiding behind a tree, my daughter and I watched him with all his little co-peanuts as they prepared to be picked up at the end of a successful morning. He showed me his own cubby, the classroom fish tank, his latest art project. Time with a grandchild is lived intensely in the moment. Who knew I’d feel such passion at my stage of life?

Being forced to reprimand my colleagues at work. It bothered me that they did not recognize their continued hateful statements. I am relieved that it is over and we have carried on. But they still resort back to old ways. I expect them to rise above pettiness and cooperate better in Billings, Montana!

I turned 50 and I am happy to be healthy. I feel like I need to say that or I will jinx myself. If I take my health for granted it will go away. I am sometimes afraid of what the next and last 1/2 of my life will bring. Will I stay healthy? Will I be able to care for my husband who has ms? How long will he be healthy? I would love to walk what I talk. I believe in being present. I believe in thankful and appreciating all I have. I sometimes, rarely but sometimes, slide into the me I don't want to be....the worry girl who thinks maybe she is so smart she can plan life out so well..outsmart fate and avoid pain. I want to be the girl who freely gives it up to G-d. I want to trust, to walk out his will and learn and grow. I want to be sage but sometimes I am just stupid. Hope 50 beige more wisdom.

My oldest daughter married. It was bittersweet because my husband, her dad, died 4 years ago. The joy of the occasion was saddened because he wasn't here with us.

I've decided to house-sit full time rather than renting, so I'm technically homeless and have been for a couple months. There's great potential for saving money,and I enjoy the regularly changing living environment. I gifted my furniture and belongings to others and I live out of suitcases... I turned 36 this year. I'm happier than I've been in a long time but simultaneously afraid that I'm living a hands-breadth away from failure as an adult. I'm not running away, I just enjoy moving around.

When I went to camp this year, it was my last year as a camper. The whole session was an amazing, inspiring, and significant experience; but one activity in general affected me the most. On one night our councilors asked us to be silent and to not talk until further noticed. They gave us post it notes and pencils to right things if it was completely necessary and we were told to stick the nots on our bodies after we had written them. We were only silent for about 2 hours and people were writing very unnecessary notes, I did not write anything. After dinner we went into a building and they played a very crewd Eminem song. They then played inspiring speeches and songs. I could tell exactly what was happening and because words are such an emotional and strong fact to me, I emediatly started crying. By the end everyone was crying and it was a very emotional activity. When it was over, I just went around to everyone muttering thank you and hugging them. I then went outside and hugged my favorite tree and I swear I felt a holy rush through me, as if Hashem was with me. This is one of the most important and significant events that has happened to me in the last year.

Robin Williams' suicide deeply saddened me. It shows me that you cannot trust the outward personality of someone to know how they really feel. It makes me try harder to get to know others & know their heart. It opened up conversations about suicide in a bigger way. I'm grateful for Robin's contribution to the world. His films & humor have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.

I have joined up with the United States Air Force. It's exciting by I'm still nervous about the future. Hopefully things will work out for the best.

I got married! I am happy, relieved, scared. Sometimes I get nervous that I wasn't ready to get married and other times I feel so content that I know I did the right thing. I love my husband and everyday brings a new challenge and a new victory!

This past year I recently picked up and moved to Boulder, Co from Chicago. I was nervous to make the initial transition but am so happy that I took the job. I am happy with the town and my work place. It is a bit upsetting that I left my family and friends behind but the environment here is much more my style. People always wonder what if. My mentality when deciding on the job was would I regret not relocating for the job. That what if is something that always would have haunted me and I could not pass up this opportunity. I could not have made a better choice.

I moved in with john. It made me feel excited and lucky. I never thought I would get to this point where I would be comfortable with someone I loved seeing me warts and all. And I'm still not totally comfortable. I am all too conscious of my warts and am afraid I have revealed too much and that he will realise I am not the perfectgirl he met on our first date, all plucked and waxed. I guess a bit of care is a good thing, not to relax entirely and take him/us for granted. But I should probably work harder at relaxing and being comfortable and confident in myself - warts and all - being more like the carefree person I would want to live the rest of my life with.

I had an abnormal pap smear that caused me to have to have additional screening for pre-cancerous cells. It made me scared to think there was that chance I'd be ill in a way that I couldn't be sure I'd be able to fix, and it made me think about how I'm living my life. I thought about if I only had a short time to live, and realized I'd not be doing the same things I'm doing. I am grateful that I was given that shock, and it's possible that I've been taking more chances and risks and going for what I want since that happened, though I don't think about it often. The tests were inconclusive but a very low likelihood that anything was truly wrong (I will go for an additional test in December), so I was able to put it behind me.

My oldest son nearly drank himself to death. I received a series of voice mails from him that became increasingly incoherent, the last one being irregular breathing. I had a clear mental picture of my son dead on his apartment floor, and felt the spirits of his deceased grandmothers imploring me to act to save him. I was able to rally his younger brother to intervene, as I was miles away in a different city. I am grateful I acted on the "vision" I received and that my son lived. I sometimes resent the fact that he still drinks to excess on occasion and has not fully acknowledged that he has a drinking problem.

A young woman showed up drunk at my apartment. I let her use the facilities and helped her to her apartment. It helped me to see if I could practice what I believed about helping those in need. I am very grateful it occurred.

My grandson was born! So grateful and blessed.

In 2013 I undertook professional formation for the unemployed for the first time. Going "back to school" was definitely not in my plans as it felt like a declaration of failure on my part at getting a job or an internship. Still, I was going to expand my knowledge of Spanish, a language I wasn't very proficient in, and I was somewhat excited about that. My teacher was quite simply one of the loveliest young women I had ever met (she was four years my junior). She was lovely in every conceivable way: lively, intelligent, humble, friendly, respectful, devoted to her job and her students; and she was delightfully cute, a petite brunette with a smile not unlike that summer I met her: warm and full of light. Although I was fascinated by her, the thought of crushing on my teacher was cause of self berating. I was 35 and (I believed) much too old for that. I was no longer a high school student after all. But there was no denying what I felt every time I was in class. It was powerful and sweet. Whenever our eyes met I would light up inside. And the times she came to my desk to correct my exercises? I was so happy to be so close to her, to be able to smell her discrete perfume, to watch her beautiful tiny hands touch the same papers I had touched seconds before and would touch again right after her and to have her full attention for a few seconds. And when I wasn't in class, I thought about her constantly. I tried my best to conceal my feelings from her because the last thing I wanted was for her to feel uncomfortable around me or my Spanish class. I think I succeeded. After the course ended and we no longer had a professional relationship, I tried to be a part of her life, always hoping that one day I might have a break. That proved to be very difficult as it seemed that she was keen to separate her professional life from her personal one. I tried to friend her on Facebook but she denied my request while friending four of my female colleagues from Spanish classes. I was devastated. That meant for sure that she didn't want to engage in any kind of relationship with me beyond the teacher/student one we had. The fact that we lived in different cities and hardly kept in touch helped me get over her relatively quickly. But I still think about her sometimes. If anything, I'm somewhat grateful for this experience because it helped me realise how I have matured over the years and how my attitude towards unrequited love has changed. Had this happened a few years ago, I would have been convinced that the Universe was conspiring against me to steal my happiness, that I was utterly unlovable and all girls/women would rather date douchebags instead of taking a chance on me. Nowadays, instead of finding a destroyed self confidence, I found a calm acceptance of the truth: that love is not something I'm entitled to or that I can demand for myself; that love is unexpected and out of control; that unrequited love will happen more often than not; and that although it hurts, it won't be the end of the world. I'll get over it. I'll be fine.

Last year, I was able to travel to Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic to visit authentic Holocaust sites to increase my knowledge of that horrific event. I was so moved by my experience and so grateful to have the opportunity to pay my respects to all those who lost their lives in those terrible places - including some of my family members. Plus, as a teacher, it was an unforgettable academic experience as well as a personal one. July 2013 is a time I will never forget.

My Rotary Club is sending me to the Dominican Republic to explore a partnership with Strength for the Journey. The impetus is the need for an alternative energy source. I am so grateful it means I can go back and visit with Lindsey and make connections. I will be anxious to see a year from now how this played out. This connects my vocation with my spirit. My life is so full of miracles it is hard to find just one significant event.

Finally got a job in the field I want to work in. The pay is shit, the hours are shit, I'm stressed all the time about bills, but I still hope I can take the experience I'm getting and find a job where I'm happier with the pay and hours, because I still like the field.

Got married last September. We'd been dating since high school and it was something we planned on for a long time but finally decided to do. It was wonderful. I think about it every day and how I wish I could do it all over again. Only regret is that we didn't do it sooner, however, I think waiting made it so much sweeter and more special.

Finding a girlfriend. It was unexpected, especially the particular girl I've fallen for, who is a) too beautiful for me and b) on paper, wrong in many ways. I am grateful and happy, though I do worry about her a lot... I don't know if I'll still be with her this time next year (I hope so but fear not, as she's already kind of pushing me away) but I think she's done a lot to help me feel more attractive.

Plans to sell agency and agree to stay home with kids

This May, I married my best friend, in a beautiful backyard wedding. It was beyond stressful in the days leading up to the event, there were anxiety attacks and tears over the best number of coolers of beer to have on hand (seriously). But, the moment I saw my handsome husband for the first time that day, with him in his jacket and the wrong shoes because he couldn't find his dress shoes, all the worries were gone. Then, walking down the aisle, surrounded by 40 of the closest, dearest friends two people could ask for, was a feeling I wish I could bottle up and sprinkle on myself when I'm having a bad day. The collective love we felt was like having everyone wrap their arms around us in a giant hug. Being married to my husband is a blessing, but having those people there to witness it was an honor I never want to forget.

I changed jobs. It was hard, I walked away from what was probably what I wanted, knowing it was bad for me. I traveled to give myself a change in point of view, but was very resentful for a great deal of time after I started the new job. Only later did I really accept that I was in complete control over how many of my goals for the change I was meeting. It's very possible I let myself be unhappy unnecessarily for too long.

The sexual experiences I had this summer were significant because it was an experience that I felt like I didn't have a lot of control over but also made me feel more mature. It was a good experience and also a very emotional one.

In the past month and a half, I've been in talks to leave my job and become an independent contractor. In a sense this bends the rule of the question, since it's an experience very much still in process, but I feel like I'm at the very apex now, and the rest is denouement -- the important experience has been the adjusting to and accepting the opportunity. I am very much grateful that the opportunity came to me, since beforehand I was feeling trapped and unsure that I could make such an opportunity happen myself. I'm also relieved, since there's now a promise of less stress in the new year, both due to work environment as well as financial impact of a much higher pay rate. And yet I'm also starting to feel a bit anxious -- is there a downside that I've not yet noticed, or worse, turned a blind eye to? I hope that's just a side effect of waiting for the transition to be complete. The gratefulness certainly dominates.

During Christmas 2013, I had the blessing to meet up with all of my cousins in Miami. It had been years since we had all been together. It was a very eye-opening experience because as the oldest male in my family, my role has always been elevated in comparison to my cousins. I am the future head of the family and there was always a lot of pressure for me to succeed and set the example. These pressures always drove me to behave within certain parameters around my cousins that never allowed them to get to know me for me. I am grateful for being able to share with them during that Christmas because it allowed them to see that I am a person as well. We didn't have to behave as we did when we were younger and they got to see me as the perfect and flawed individual that I am. It helped us to strengthen our bond and it shed light on why my sister is the way she is. While they only had to "deal" with me during certain times, my sister's time with me was never-ending. This encounter allowed us to learn more about each other and to recognize that although we do know each other, we really don't. But we want to. And that marked the beginning of the blossoming of our relationships.

I spent two weeks studying in New York - and it wasn't what I learned, it was two weeks where I got to explore and experience the new and it reminded me how much I loved London, but not because it is London, but because it is a global city. It confirmed to me that my 'homesickness' isn't silly, it's sensible and it refocused my plans

Grief at lost of hospice job.

Letting go of a large government contract that was my bread, butter and identity. I was angry at first bout all the hurt holding that contract cause so I was depressed for several months after letting it go and very fearful. I am very grateful now at exactly a year later. I am relieved of no longer having to deal with non-payment, furloughing staff and being late on rent. My weight has gone down, blood pressure is under control and most importantly, my A-1c is under control.

A significant experience this past year was letting myself be admitted to hospital. I often like to think I'm stronger than I am, and I've always struggled with asking for help. I don't want to appear weak. I like to think I'm independent and can handle things on my own. Going in to hospital reminded me that the doctors, and nurses, and even my boyfriend are all people I can go to for help. They want me to be happy and healthy, and they will do as much as they can to make that happen. I think it helped that I was admitted in January. It reminded me that as much as I tried to I can't run away from my problems. I enjoyed my time there, my doctor regularly checking in on me and just talking to me - because he knew I didn't have family in the country. Being in an elderly ward while I was only 20 was something to experience as well. My roommates were definitely interesting and the nurses were so nice and friendly. Then there was my boyfriend who had never set foot in a hospital in his life but he came every day to see me and just to spend time with me. It was a much needed reminder that I'm not alone, and that its ok to stop and ask for help. Especially when its really needed.

The most significant experience this past year was my wedding. It affected me in many ways. Initially, the day couldn't come fast enough. The planning was difficult, and at times, we weren't sure we wanted to be getting married at all. Then, the day finally came. My wife did an absolutely incredible job planning the best wedding ever. I guess when I look back on things, the planning wasn't that bad after all.

My father has Parkenson's and had a bad reaction to medication which made him go out of his mind for a few days- in which he was driving and pulled over twice. It took months for him to "return" to some sort of normalcy. In the meantime I had quit my job and basically moved in with him. After much delay, he agreed to finally get on the waiting list at an independent/assisted living community. The past few months have been spent cleaning, organizing and getting his house on the market. The house sold and we moved him in less than 30 days. I'm relieved that he is living in a place where he will be taken care of the rest of his life because I was a terrible care giver and found that I had been putting my entire life on hold to take care of him. Now I can just be his daughter and not be his nurse. I will always wonder if it was too soon- could he have lived on his own longer? But not having to worry every time he misses a call I think he might have fallen gives me such peace of mind. This processes inspired me to get my own finances in better order and to take out long term care insurance for myself.

My mom died. Left a deep hole. It was only by her death that I could physically feel my life's needy-ness for her. I had wanted her to love & see me in a different way and though I had done much work around this issue and thought I was pretty clear, it took her death for the little girl inside of myself to stop grabbing and pleading. And, with this release I have been able to understand and see her in a much greater way than before. I can see her version of love and take it for that. I'm responsible for the hole in my being; have been from the start. I'm continuing to grow up. Blessed be my mother. I am less and more.

I had two similar significant experiences. Getting the only jobs I've had in 2 years. I was grateful and relieved although the jobs are more stressful than sitting on the couch looking for work.

I realized my marriage had ended emotionally, and that it needed to happen legally. I took the steps to complete the process my (ex)husband began. I am relieved the uncertainty is over, resentful he couldn't be more honest and emotionally faithful, grateful to be employed when it happened & to have such great support. A little afraid of what the future holds, still. But overall, I am confident I made the right decision, happy I had the strength to follow through.

ahh, a significant experience for me was moving 0ff-campus. I have mixed feelings about it because the circumstances leading to it were kind of awful (in short: I was going to be living with someone who tore me down a lot and probably would have led to me being miserable for forever and a day). in some ways, I love it so much. I have a fireplace and a kitchen and the rent is great (plus all my utilities are included! no worrying about monthly bills! no worrying about quarters for laundry). but I miss having easy access to everything and feeling connected to on-campus life. I feel a disconnect and I'm not sure how that'll impact me yet.

Entering into an intimate relationship. It made me feel very nervous. Truthfully, I wasn't attracted to my partner. Wonderful from the sex standpoint. Complimented by her.

I raised enough money to pay for my teenaged daughter to go on several trips. I was happy that I could provide access to these experiences and that would help her have a more worldly view. I was so grateful that I am in a position that I can work and could manage my money and scholarships to do this. I felt like a good parent. I did resent my x-husband for not helping, or paying child support in any consistent manner. So pulling it off without incurring any debt was very sweet.

After five plus years post-divorce, I believe that all financial and other ties between my ex-husband and I are finally finished. I feel as if a great weight has been lifted from me. I feel free, finally.

I have contact dermititis. I am an automotive mechanic, so I come into contact with a lot of diferent chemicals daily. I have gotten to the point where I can contain it most of the time, but sometimes a reaction will take me by supprise and I end up missing days of work. I feel that I am a very good mechanic and at the age of fifty I don't think I can learn another trade or skill that will pay as well as what I earn now. I just feel frustrated that my body is letting me down, that I am not earning a full paycheck all the time, and that I am not fulfilling my obligation to my wife and childern.

In 2014, I fulfilled a lifelong dream of moving to a major city: Seattle. I have wanted to live here ever since I watched Frasier as a little kid -- I was a weird little kid. Making it happen didn't come without a lot of preparation and a bit of struggle, but things are finally starting to even out. Even through the more difficult parts, I never felt like I was doing the wrong thing or that it wasn't going to be worth it -- somehow I knew this is where I was meant to be. Now that I'm here, I feel a lot more at peace, even when I'm just at home. I'm grateful for this moment in my life, and I'm more excited than ever about all the things my future could hold.

I lost a staff member from my three staff business and thought we would struggle to cope. As it turned out two months later we have become more efficient and have absorbed the work he was doing and saved alot in wages. Couldn't be happier.

I was told I had cancer. It made me stop and think what was important in my life. It made me face the fact that life ends. I was tremendously sadden by the fact, but at the same time relieved. Because I felt relief, I felt ashamed and incredible grief over the fact that I did not mourn over the fact I was would possibly die sooner than later. I had made the decision to do nothing. To allow my body do what it would do- and I felt calm about it. Like a weight taken off my shoulder. I felt hope for possibilities. Perhaps I should not have felt such. So now, I ride a roller coaster of exams and tests. Yes, No, Yes, No.

Me: Ellie moving to Florida. It was a big milestone for Ethan but I made it bigger than it actually was. Her moving I guess left me feeling without a safety net. The transition did not need to be as long as I made it but I'm glad I kept it that long. How does that make me feel? I can't answer that. Maybe relieved because it's done. I may be wistful because he's growing up. Not more comfortable, though. John: Changes at work - Kevin and Ron being let go, while initially caused a lot of headaches, their leaving is now paying off allowing me to have more quality work/life balance. Ethan: Saturn and Jupiter. Going to the Planetarium.

Around Christmastime last year I went back to the UK for six weeks, first with Simon and Asher then Simon left. It was great to see people again, and to introduce them to Asher. I felt very content with my lot. At the same time it was a very emotionally draining experience and at the end of it I was very relieved to come back to Australia, to Melbourne which feels like home. I felt more comfortable afterwards with the idea that I might go back to London to see people less regularly now that I have a family, the trip allowed me to settle more.

I decided - well, I'm in the process of deciding - to make New York City my home. Again. This city is always challenging to me...but it's home in so many ways. Home is not always easy. It should accost us, push us forward, make us look deeply inward and come up with something real and true.

I managed to get through an arduous trip to Peru and the Andes with a group of 12 photographers, mainly from other countries. AT times I didn't think I would make it, but I persevered and accepted the support of others.

My surgery last Sept, as reflect today I realize that life is short and just when you got that you forget and get all caught up in the pettiness of life. Sooner or later you will be dust. So was all that small stuff worth it? Of course not, but human nature is G-ds humor!

My husband always says " when the student is ready, the teacher will appear", a Buddhist proverb that happened to me this year. I decided I wanted to learn something new so I went on Craigslist and found 3 listings for classes - horseback riding, guitar and Tai Chi. The only one new to me was Tai Chi. I signed up because I had wanted to take martial arts as a child and I was afraid to do it. Afraid of not being flexible enough, afraid of looking foolish, and afraid of not being the best. I like to be the best and I have let the fear of not being the best stop me from doing many things. in fact, a month, I tried to quit Tai Chi because I didn't like feeling I wasn't the best. But, I hated quitting. Quitting did not fit in with my new vision of myself. It felt uncomfortable and wrong to quit. So I told myself I would write my teacher and if he was the least bit encouraging, I would jump on the chance to go back. I would beg to go back and promise not to quit again. He was warm, gentle and kind, and I went back. Now it is the most rewarding activity in my life. I'm leaning techniques and skills in both Tai Chi and Kung Fu and studying on my own, too, about breathing, Qigong, Ba Gua and other things. It's been the most rewarding physical and mental experience of my life and I know much of that has to so with knowing I overcame my own fears and that I am ready to give my best and be my best. Yes, I am grateful, relieved and inspired.

I had a two month relationship with someone who told me they were moving away on our first date. I continued seeing them even though there was a very close ending in sight. Though, now, I am aware that there was a great lack of substance to the short lived encounter, I "fell," for this person quite hard. Their feelings aren't and were never reciprocated in the course of the two months and a few months subsequent, all while I desperately attempted to maintain contact. I feel deeply hurt and confused and mostly ashamed at my lack of self respect for not walking away very early on when it was clear they didn't feel a connection or make efforts or show interest and excitement in me as a person. I do feel grateful in a way, through the hurt, because this is a lesson I've had to learn and something I've had to examine about my reoccurring behavior for quite a long time.

I had an aha moment in July when I realized that I was going to be in CT for Alex's wedding weeks before the beginning of the fall semester, and with access to a car. It was the perfect opportunity initiate contact with faculty and staff at SHU to set up a time to visit campus to see if I could re-enroll in my bachelor's and complete my thesis. Part of me is proud of taking the step to ask about getting back into school. Part of me feels like I was acting on pure adrenalin and out of necessity, fearing a missed opportunity that I would kick myself for for the rest of my life. How often do I get to CT? How often to I have my own autonomy and use of a car? If I didn't do it that weekend of the wedding, I probably never would have. About a month and a half has passed since my visit to SHU. I've had contact with my thesis advisor, reviewed some of my previous work from years ago, but still have to crack open books and journals to develop my thesis statement and get back into the swing of writing. That's my goal for this week. I still haven't told my family about going back to school and only three of my friends know- Alex, Kate and Kristi. I want to share the good news but I'm afraid that my expectation of their reaction is too high and will be let down by them. I'm also afraid of letting them down by not finishing. So, I need to manage my expectations and manage my time. I'm grateful that Kate brought this up back in last November over my birthday weekend when I was clearly going through a tough time emotionally since my recent breakup from Ben, and again in July when they were visiting for the Billy Joel concert. There's been an ongoing feeling of incompleteness. That when other facets of my life seemingly fall apart or just don't go as planned, there hasn't been a safety net there to remind myself, "Hey, you're ok. Look, just because this one thing in your life is kinda crappy, there are so many other things that make your life pretty awesome: fulfilling career, career advancement opportunities, deep social connections with a network of colleagues and local friends, etc." I've felt like those things have been lacking so I'm working on this one piece that will hopefully open a door that's been dead bolted (by my own will/fear) for quite some time. And that is pretty fucking awesome. Maybe I'll apply to a graduate program and be in school again this time next year. I'm still on the fence about teaching. Is it what I truly want or just that it's been at arms length for so long that I think it's what I want? Financial security concerns me and I wonder if I should choose a more lucrative profession. I think back to my favorite teachers when I was in school and the impact they've had on me, and recalling that I wanted to be like them. We'll see. I think I need to remind myself that there's more than one way to be happy. There isn't only one route and one destination. (Related: I also need to become less caught up worrying about having a good time or contributing to others' having a good time and just *be* present and enjoy.)

I have finally found a combination of three different antidepressants that seems to work for me to control my periods of utter black despair. I have been depressed to a greater or lesser extent for over 40 years, so this is a big deal. I am very grateful to the doctors who got me to this point, but it makes me feel a bit sad that it has taken this long.

Travelling throughout Central and South America was a very significant experience for me in several ways. First, it was incredibly energizing, invigorating and so much fun. It was truly fulfilling a dream I had had for some time. I learned so much -- language, culture, history -- and met incredible friends. I learned how to be self-sufficient and I found it incredibly empowering to feel like I could do anything and go anywhere. And I felt overwhelming gratitude-- first, that I had the opportunity and the time and resources to do this trip, but also grateful for the people and the communities with whom I visited - who shared with and taught me so much, pointed me in the right direction, cooked me delicious meals, helped me get through a logistical challenge. I constantly marveled at how many things seemed to just fall into place and work out.

We have managed to achieve our goal of a major trip in Europe to follow our family roots. It was most amazing better than expected, as my husband said it was like a second honeymoon in our 42 anniversary year

Last year, I lost my job. But also a friend who was my colleague on the same job. After we both lost the job, he ignored me completely. I've tried reach for him a few times, but i got no response. Life lesson: If you really like a person, you try to connect. If the other person doesn't reply (after a few tries), disconnect. Life is too hard to miss the ones who don't miss you.

My father died in May of 2013. It was heartbreaking but a relief at the same time. Heartbreaking because he had Alzheimer's and died of renal failure. Watching him die was worse than watching my mom die the previous year. It was a relief because my sister and I wouldn't have to try to persuade him to move to a memory care facility. He would have felt so betrayed. It was also a relief because watching the Alzheimer's slowly take over was so sad and so painful. He's with Mom now. I loved him, even though our relationship was complicated and full of anger and pain and regret.

I both broke up, and began a reconciliation, with my partner of six (or is it five?) years. I feel grateful and inspired, and a little resigned, as we begin again.

I had been feeling super foggy-headed so I was praying to have my mind back.... Sort of a quiet, desperate prayer. I heard about the book, "the Exercise Cure" and started exercising regularly. My mind is sharper.

I savored traveling to Cookham with my wife to see Stanley Spencer's paintings exhibited in his home village in Berkshire. We took the train from London to Maidenhead and then Cookham, walking across the roads and landscapes we had seen in his art. We took a path around the village and saw how Spencer transformed his reality into his visions on paper and canvas and murals. This helped us better understand how an artist sees what we all see, but how an artist can, inspired or disturbed by life and love and faith or its lack, illustrate it differently, with the insight and depth than our mundane, less-informed or superficial responses. This affected me as I realized how the human reflection on our surroundings and reflections can change how we view them, artists or not. I was grateful to have the chance, waited for most of my life, to travel to Cookham, 6000 miles away, and to visit the setting which dominated Spencer's creations. My wife and I shared a powerful moment together, as we both learned about one of our favorite artists that day.

My first real boyfriend was definitely big. I had my 5 boys in 5 days thanks to tinder, and two months later met my boyfriend. It has shown me how much it takes to be in a relationship and how important it is to love yourself first. "You were beautiful before he said you were." I am extremely grateful for how loved I am (he hasn't said it yet) and how part of a new club I feel, though it feels less genuine because we met online. It has been a total shift of mindset, having to take into consideration someone else's time and feelings. Taking account of friend's feelings is a very different investment than a significant other's. I have spent so much time by myself with non-committal relationships that it's difficult switching to this new one. I am extremely happy though and love learning about myself through this relationship. I love myself more than I did before, especially because I feel appreciated. I have chosen to invest in myself through yoga, reading, and books about happiness. I am consciously choosing to spend my time on things that I enjoy as opposed to things I feel obligated to do. I am choosing where to invest my energy because I only have so much of it. Overall, I am grateful and curious as to how I will move forward, handle challenges with grace, and expand my comfort zone. I am happy, I am loved, I am alive.

Buying a house in the mountains in Colorado, we were very grateful to find such a wonderful place to call home.

My mother turned 60 in April. Back story: My birth father is not a part of ym life in any way and hasn't been since I was 11 and he had an affair with my mom's best friend (his best friend's wife) and my mother finally left him after years of his physical abuse of my sister and I as well as her, on top of his alcoholism and drug abuse. The only person I knew from his side of the family is an uncle I had never met who lived in Orlando. Everyone else had passed away before I was born or when I was too young to remember. My uncle and I had communicated over the years via cards when I was young, and he and my mother would write letters, etc. As I got older, I started building a relationship with my uncle and learning about one another via email. He even sent me $100 when I graduated college, being a more supportive figure in my life than my father had ever been. His wife passed away a few years ago, leaving him and his son (my cousin who I had never had any form of communication or interaction) with no other family at all. I suddenly felt compelled to gain an even deeper connection to these 2 blood relatives, though I had never met them. Since my mom was turning 60, I thought it would be quite special to take her to Disney World. We had never been, and she has not really traveled anywhere before due to income restrictions. I am a single, full-time professional, and decided to save to treat us both on this lavish trip, though unsure how to make it happen. My mother is on Welfare and Disability due to recent hip replacement surgery and I knew she would not be able to contribute. She had not been to any theme parks for a great many years, and had not flown further than one trip from northern California to southern California. I knew this would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us both. I was very concerned about financing this lavish trip (I myself had never had a true vacation beyond a weekend here or there), but knew I was going to make this work. Since my Uncle lived in Orlando, I reached out and suggested we all meet at last. I figured we would find a way to meet up for dinner while we were out there, or they could join us for a day at the park, etc. To my surprise, my Uncle was not only absolutely down to make the meet up happen, he and my cousin instead gave us the best trip of our entire lives. It turned out my cousin worked at Disney World, something I had no clue about as we had never connected and my Uncle and I only spoke about each other and sometimes my birth father. As a result, my cousin was able to get us free tickets to all of the Disney World parks. I couldn't even believe it. Additionally, my Uncle insisted on paying for our hotel for a full week in Disney World. And they both wanted to join us for the majority of the trip. We were also treated to special VIP line access (great for my mother who was wheelchair bound and had difficulty in the long lines) and VIP seating for fireworks shows and more. I fell apart at this generosity. I couldn't comprehend this kindness and these gifts to my mother and I from family we hardly knew. I found myself writing my uncle back after hearing this news and I could not stop crying. I was beyond grateful and touched by these insane gestures of love. The trip was incredible. my mom told me it was the best time of her whole life. We had an amazing time getting to know my Uncle and cousin over those few days together at Disney World. And we all found something that was lost and missing in each other - human connection, kindness, and family. They had lost their wife/mother; we had lost our father/husband. And together we were able to connect and build relationships and friendships. I was 31, my cousin was 43, my mom and Uncle were both 60, and here we were, meeting, and reaching out, and sharing experiences and loving our old but new family. I will never forget that trip, and my heart swells with gratitude and love. Reach out and make those connections. Family really is everything.

A significant experience I had was the ending of my friendship with Windsor. It has affected me profoundly. I have been so sad and even thought of suicide last month ( not just because of Windsor...). I still don't understand how one can drop a friend after so much intimacy...a flick of the switch and adios to a relationship. I did learn from this. Certainly there were many, many signs of his inconsistency that I chose to ignore. How could I do that to myself? I was so weak. So now I want to work on my integrity...to make sure if I tell myself that something is amiss, even if I feel torn about leaving, I need to examine the wrong and see it for what it is and think of the consequences of staying with someone with such negative behaviour. There is no relief. Only a healing scar and anger. I feel mistrustful now. Definitley resentful. I no longer even long for a life partner. I'm ok being single. And I do feel inspired about working on self honesty -- if it smells bad, it most likely is rotten. Why delude myself that it still could be gtood to eat. Oh. And my anger. I wish I'd been calmer and not so reactive. This has taught me to take a few minutes to become calm again and the knowledge that this takes practice. So I am interested in meditation and Buddhist philosophies now that suggest that we try to stay in the now -- the only moment that really exists. It also helps not to speak or write to someone out of anger.... I'm in a calmer place now but the anger is still there. I'm not in that place yet to calmly and lovingly speak to him about his behaviour but I'm enjoying the feelings of getting more and more peaceful.

I got to spend meaningful time with my oldest child away from the day to day shuffle of daily life... I am grateful

My third daughter got married to her college honey after an 8 year courtship. I am grateful and relieved and joyful-- I see them both make the other so happy and at peace. I have worried that their evangelical church would affect their partnership but I think they will be who they are regardless.

The whole moving to another state getting away from work drama No, we're staying, learn to cope, sell the house and find another one FAST mess. That was significant. And enduring. And tiring. And a roller coaster. Now that I'm thru it, I'm grateful. I knew during the ride to Let go. Let God. But that is of course easy analytically, and difficult emotionally. Hopeful. Stressed. Eager. Worried. Nervous. And now, quite pleased. Glad to be here. Glad I have my friends close by. So blessed at how the house(s) turmoil resolved itself. Thank you Lord!

The death of my ex husband and father of my children It was horrific and life altering in the worst way. I'm resentful that he's no longer here to parent our children and that he's left to raise them alone.

In May I graduated with my master's degree. While I'm proud that I competed the program I do regret taking a job immediately after graduation. I'm not happy with the job.

I went to Israel and eastern Europe this summer. The experience changed me and how I look at Judaism forever. We went to Auschwitz and what was left of the Warsaw ghetto. When we landed in Israel for the first time, I felt like I was home even though I'm not a citizen of Israel. I would really like to go back to Israel within my life time.

I moved in with my girlfriend of two years and couldn't be happier with the decision.

I had a very surgery on May 12, 2014 that I thought would be easy - it was a repair to my urethra to remove mesh that had eroded into it. It tuned out to be a far more complicated surgery than expected and I went home with a foley catheter for nearly a month. The foley was more painful than the surgery! I developed a UTI an then asthmatic bronchitis and the severe coughing irritated the position of the foley. I had always been a person who could tolerate a significant amount of pain but I discovered that I was no longer that person. I had great difficulties enduring those weeks with foley and subsequently I lost all the ground I had gained with the pelvic floor physical therapy. I was ferociously incontinent of urine and this so upset me that it affected every aspect of my life and my relationship with my boyfriend. I could not go far or socialize much due to incontinence and I stopped drinking more water due to that but I need to drink the water as I only have one kidney. Due to my pulmonary function, my doctor told me no more more surgery until I can lose at least 40 lbs due to the risk of dying on the table. I became even more despondent. There were many other factors going on with my boyfriend and our living situation and having to move and finally I realized I was moving into the beginning of a depression and I was having anxiety attacks and almost a panic attack. I finally saw my doctor yesterday on 9/23 (she is Hassidic) and was placed on anti-depressants and an anti-anxiety. I am a retired psy nurse and felt that I was at the point where I needed some medication. It took me a while to ask as this has been going on for months. I don't know if I am grateful or not. I know the spiritual thing to say is to be grateful for all illnesses and challenges as it helps us to grow and be stronger but I don't feel that way at present. I guess I do resent the incontinence but have been told that it is all related to my mental attitude and my thinking and that I could turn this around without the need for further surgery. I am not sure if I believe it all .....but those close around me whom I trust believe it. Do I feel inspired? right now I'm too tired and too negative to feel much of anything. I have been slowing losing pleasure in things that used to always give me pleasure like swimming....in psy terms that's called Anedonia. I had forgotten the phrase and just remembered. In spite of all of this, I still county my blessings. I have a wonderful partner in life who is the sweetest man. I have good friends who love and respect me. I know I can become easily despondent and I try to fight this. I have lost 3 very close and special friends since January 2014...the last being a week ago on 9/17 and a beloved friend of 37 years on June 28th. I think of them often. I am inspired by the bravery of others I know now personally dealing with health crises far greater than me and then I feel ashamed for my feelings , ashamed that I am not as strong or resilient as I used to be. I know that I've always been very hard on myself and I guess this is no exception.

I was laid off at the first of the year, and just began working again. The journey back to employment brought up so many feelings. I was initially relieved, as I didn't much like my job, and I'd be able to collect unemployment, and regroup. However, I also felt embarrassed at losing my job, and found myself less and less motivated to find new employment. The more I didn't use my time well, the worse I felt. When my unemployment ended, I still didn't have work. I was very depressed for several months. And, when an opportunity for a great job came up during that time, I found myself unable to apply. I felt inadequate. I was baffled that I couldn't achieve my own goals and desires - I realized that while raising my kids, I'd always managed to keep it together for them, and I was so sad that I couldn't seem to pull it together just for myself. I'm relieved that I'm working now, and I really want to unravel more of the complicated reasons why I got so stuck.

I was voted in as the Chairperson of my local Roller Derby League. This means I am now responsible for 40 women, and associated officials, and our League 'brand'. It's a mixed blessing - while I feel honoured that the girls chose me to represent them, the added stress has negatively affected my health. Add to that, a group of skaters, led by an ex-Chair, left the league and formed a breakaway league... my diplomatic skills have never been tested like this before! While I've learned a tonne about people management and organisational politics, and it's a wonderful thing to put on my CV, I'm really torn about standing for a second term, because: 1) The stress is pretty major 2) I'd like a second term to 'do it right'; 3) I really don't think I'm the best person for it; 4) There may not be anyone else. I'm leaning towards not standing, since I have other things I need to focus on.

Almost a year ago my son and the woman he loves had a baby, which means I have a new and completely delightful grandson. I have two daughters who each have two children ranging in age from twelve to eight who are, though we live in different cities, a huge part of my life. I visit, hear their stories and thrill at their passions, personalities and how each of them has their own distinct preferences, talents and desires. I also love that they all love one another. They've met their new baby cousin, which was a real treat for them. The treat for me is that I have our newest babe a taxi ride away ~ a little one who is funny and adventurous and still trying on new behaviors and abilities and who brings joy to my heart and puts a huge smile on my face without leaving town, though I will be going to visit my daughters and grand kids soon and can hardly wait.

I won a major book award for a book I struggled long and hard to write and publish. It was incredible to have the affirmation after such a long haul.

I had my first post-college relationship. It was amazing while it was happening, but nearly broke me when it ended. Still, I'm glad I got the chance to love someone so deeply.

On April 28th of this year my mother passed away. The manner in which she departed this earth was unexpected and shocking. How did this affect me? How didn't it? Initially, I found myself feeling incredibly heartbroken, abandoned, guilty, misguided, confused... do I go on? Just compound the aforementioned with a plethora of negative, emotionally charged adjectives and there I am: a tornado wild with feelings. I should have been a better daughter, I should have been more supportive, I should have picked up on some of the things she had said, I should have been enough for her. But in situations like this, one can't think I, I, I. How narcissistic. Remember: Her decision. Her choice. Her grief. I, I don't understand it, but I am learning to respect it and I am learning to cry and scream and talk about her even when I know that it's making someone uncomfortable because their discomfort with death and suicide doesn't trump the fact that I had a mother, that she existed, that she lived once, and that she loved me totally and completely and that love still courses through my veins. I found (and continue to find) myself surrounded by people who love me, receive words of wisdom, guidance, encouragement. They say, "You are strong." I hear the words grinding in my bones when I feel my heart race, legs shake, and all my mind and body can stand to do is to crumble and let the sadness drown me . . . but I still stand. The strength I have found in myself this year is her strength, the love I feel for those around me is her love, the confidence and energy to continue to keep myself moving on are all characteristics that are so clearly inherent, from her. I am strong. There are people who love me. There are people that I love. I need to remain strong, to be solid, to be present, to allow myself to feel happy, to care, to be kind, to strive for excellence, to make her proud.

The most significant experience that has happened to me in the past year is my mother's death. She'd been in failing health for some time, with a live in companion/caregiver for 4 years. Because of that caregiver, it had become increasingly difficult to visit Mom. The last time I saw her was between Thanksgiving and Christmas. She died on Jan. 8, 2014, in an intermediate care facility. She'd been there for just one day, transferred from the hospital after a brief illness. They'd hoped to help her build up a bit of strength before going home. But between assessment appointments she died. It's given me a lot of work to do. My brother, whose health isn't great (he missed Mom's funeral because he was in the hospital with pneumonia), and I own the house Mom lived in. Getting the caregiver to move out was our first task - that took a couple months. At the end of March, we were ready to work on the house. My son, youngest daughter, and I spent weeks of Mondays (my regular day off) cleaning the house out, room by room. We got to know the guys who receive donations at the thrift store. We hauled broken and dirty things to the landfill. We moved many boxes of photos & keepsakes to my house. The youngest daughter lived in the house for a few weeks, deep cleaning the place. Over the summer, we got down to repairs. And painting every room. And removing the ratty carpet in the bedrooms - which revealed hard wood floors! Soon we'll be ready to put it on the market to sell. I'm a little resentful that my brother hasn't been able to help more. But I know he would help if he could. I'm grateful to have had my mother for so long - she was 88 when she died. Today is my 57th birthday. She lived to see all her grandchildren grow up. She saw 5 great-grandchildren (my niece's children) born. She saw my son married. She's not around to see that his wife has left him, and they seem headed for divorce. I have no living parents now. The only links to my father are an uncle and an aunt, the only links to my mother are 5 cousins - other than my brother. I have become the older generation.

In the past year I changed positions at a new job, and I was recognized as an employee of the month within this Company. The other significant thing that happened was that I bought a house. this was thanks to my mother doanting the deposit, I can never be more thankful to her than I currently am.

On this day one year ago, I finished my chemo therapy and my one year journey of treatment for breast cancer. My cancer journey affected me in giving me perspective on my strengths. I am grateful to be healthy after completing the journey, for the friends and family that supported me and that I did not have any of the profound side effects from the array of treatments. I am relieved to be finished with this journey and know I will be healthier because of it.

The place I work experienced huge organizational change, which included significant layoffs. I am angry and hurt, but also just so tired. I am also hopeful that because this is such a big change, maybe it will lead to something great for me down the road that I just can't see yet.

Unfortunately this year has been quite dull. Although I had fun hanging out with friends and doing typical things, nothing too new/exciting has happened. I am kind of stuck in a rut this year. It has been financially stressful and emotionally stressful. I also got into my first official car accident this year, which sucks. I hope next year is better.

It was necessary to put my partner (with advanced dementia) into a nursing home. I am relieved. I still feel as though I need to watch out for her. I visit the nursing home every 2nd or 3rd day.

I moved home from texas. I'm grateful to be home, but I've also changed. I like being alone more. My independence is a huge part of me. I don't have time for mundane and trivial things. I'm less patient. Bolder.

Jp: my close friend, aged only 55, died of cancer. I find it hard to believe. I'm surprisingly not angry. I dream of him. I guess I am disturbed. Np:my daughter held an amazing surprise party for me and my girlfriends. I felt overwhelmed and perhaps not worthy. Rs: the celebration of my life at the museum last week with so many people wishing me well just before my 86th. I have a continuing feeling of appreciation; I was surprised.

In the past year I have been mourning the death of my husband Reg, who died on June 11, 2013. I have tried to come to terms with his passing, to be comforted by my faith, by my son and my family, and to learn to live without the man who was a part of my life for over 40 years. I am grateful for the love and support I have received, but the loss of my husband is the most traumatic event I have ever experienced.

I have had so many life changing experiences in the past year it is hard to pick just one. 1. Purchased my first home 2. Started a new partnership 3. Started a new job 4. Friendship evolved into a relationship 5. Coworkers became close friends It has been life altering. I am relieved, excited, anxious, exhausted, inspired, accomplished, driven, but above all else I am grateful for these experiences. It has been the most pivotal year thus far and I feel very blessed to have those around me to share this with me and help me acheive these moments that I will never forget.

My grandson was born. When I was a child, I didn't think I would ever love anyone as much as my parents. Then I had my daughter and I didn't think I could love anyone as much as I love her. When Trystan was born, I knew my love had come full circle, and now I know how it feels to have lived a life filled with love.

Working for labor ready. It was the most significant experience I've had in a long time. I am grateful because they kept calling me back by name and that was reaffirming and made me feel good about who I am.

I got diagnosed with Breast Cancer which gave me the impetus to restore a broken relationship. It made me learn to challenge my fear and learning the meaning of self forgiveness. I am both resentful and inspired.

I got married this past year. The planning, the process, the event. It was really emotional and intense at times, but ultimately was such a fun and awesome experience. I won't forget walking up to the chuppah. Knees were shaking. The bedeken ceremony and seeing how happy she was, and how much crying was going on. How much we were IN the moment. Everything was so surreal but also so grounded and happy. Was great to spend time with friends and live it like we dreamed. I'm feeling really grateful that I have an amazing and caring wife. We're silly together. She hugs and kisses me all the time. She's mine. I am hers.

I left my job that was making me feel frustrated and doubting my self worth. It was a scary leap of faith because I didn't have another job lined up but I had faith that something I could love would come along. I'm so glad I did because I was able to get a job in education, which I have been interested in since childhood, and it has been one of my favorite all-time jobs.

Our company had an external safety audit which could have affected our ability to work for certain companies and which could have had a negative effect on the company and its employees if we did not pass; fortunately, we passed the audit. I was extremely relieved. I was extremely stressed by this event and, in retrospect, I was somewhat bipolar in how I handled the audit. I am upset that I let some things slip and get to the point where I was uncertain that we would pass in certain areas of the audit, and that I, in a very literal sense, could have done more to insure that we would pass. Essentially, I procrastinated to the point where I couldn't possibly get everything I needed done and/or looked after and was crossing my fingers. On the other hand, I am glad that I was able to stick it through to the end as I wasn't 100% certain I was going to make it. Now on to bigger and better things.

My husband died in February after a year long illness. It was sad and many times it felt so futile. I was grateful that he was able to remain at home and make the transition to death in his own bed with me and the dogs at his side. I was relieved that he was not suffering anymore and a bit guilty that I felt released. Now 7 months later I have driven across the country round trip and spent the summer with my family on the east coast. I plan to spend the next few months deciding what to do next.

Achieved a state of calm like I haven't experienced -- literally -- in decades. Grateful, somewhat relieved, somewhat happy.

Funny, it's been almost exactly a year ago now that I started working in Hattiesburg, which is an hour and a half from my home...which means that for the majority of the week, I don't live in my own space with my husband, my puppies, and my things. I tell myself that it's OK - lots of people have commuter marriages, that this is a reality of the world that we live in and that we have friends who work off-shore, which means that spouses (usually the husband) are gone for weeks at a time - at least we get to see each other on the regular. But I hate it. Almost every minute of it, I hate it. I hate that the State of Mississippi is so damn cheap that school districts closer to where I live can't afford to hire me. I hate that I can't find a job that pays anywhere near as much as what I'm making here. Don't get me wrong: I'm grateful to have a job. That month without it was hard, and the memory of June - December 2011 is still relatively fresh and new in my mind. I still fucking hate it.

I stopped keeping my distance from my co workers at my job. I always kept to myself when my children were home but now that they are away at college, I decided to attend some of my friend's parties, plays, events and dinners. I stopped declining invitations. How did it affect me? I was surprised at how I felt about my co workers. I never knew how much I cared about them. It opened my eyes to be more accepting of others and to believe the best of others.

My wife and I went to the Antarctic this January. It was a trip of a lifetime. Apparently, only 1 in each 1.5 million on earth ever set foot on the Antarctic land. The continent is like none other on earth, and it is contrast on contrast. We went from brilliant sun and snow to overcast and ice floes. We were nose to nose with seals and penguins. It is so extreme there, there are no plants - no grass, no trees. Yet life thrives there notwithstanding. Huge mammals like Weddell Seals and the gigantic Humpback Whales thrive on tiny krill. Underwater, in salt water temps below the temp of ice cubes freezing, life is slow moving but still apparent and in its slow way, eloquent. We also got out of the ship when we "parked" on the ice shelf and walked about with a few penguins in this grey and frozen landscape where there was no horizon to discern. It was quiet and profound. Life under our Creator finds a way ... always. Whether is is people like Shacklelton's crew who scratched out a miraculous life until rescue, or the sweet-faced seal whose nose was a few feet away from mine, creatures great and small have found a way to carve out a life. It gave me even greater respect for all living things, and the Grand Designer who made these things thrive in the puzzle of life.

Living in Saco was depleting my reserves to dangerous levels and I had to take action on my own behalf before I became ill, physically or mentally. I changed my mind about a commitment and moved our family back to Portland. Its ok to change your mind, and accept help.

My department at work was reorganized and our management changed. Nobody lost their job and I am thankful but, it was an anxious time for everyone the first 6 months. I kept focused on the work that needed doing despite the reorg and was recognized with a promotion. I am grateful for the work ethic my parents taught me.

Dad had another stint in the hospital this year. It was quite frightening. He was found to have complete renal failure. It required surgery, a week long stay in hospital, and daily home care from a visiting nurse when he was finally allowed to go home. The emergency situation terrified him. He told me so. We talked about it extensively, not extensively for the average family, but extensively for the two of us. Personally, I was a tense, anxious mess for a few weeks. We don't get along so well. There's a terrible history between us that's not forgotten. Too much has happened. But I do genuinely want him to heal and change for the better. I hope he wants that too. Time will tell.

I'm pretty grateful I finally made my dream come tue: travel to the US. Now I'm more engaged to keep going learning the English language

I have not had any particular significant experience in the past year. Nothing extraordinary in a single event. That is not a bad thing. The few people close to me have been good for me (and I for them, I hope). I have met several people who have enriched my life in some ways. I have continued to be mostly healthy and mostly hard-working. Geez, I haven't bought a new house, a new car, gone on vacation or anything like that. I suppose I am boring, and that is fine. And, yes, I am grateful for that. Very grateful.

One of the most significant things doesn't have a true date or time I could pin down. It would be when I truly began to train myself in the gym. I wasn't going just to go or to lose weight. I was going because I want to be strong, I want to be healthy, and because I finally started liking myself. The confidence I get from throwing heavy shit around and lifting it up and down is astonishing. I know that I can take on anything. I know that I am a better and happier wife/mother/friend/person. I like myself. That's my moment.

My unmarried daughter with mental health issues and learning disabilities decided to have a baby. It was devastating news for many reasons, including that we were still supporting her financially and she has a strong sense of entitlement. Once pregnant, that became an excuse for not working, for bad behavior that was in reality similar to pre-pregnancy. It caused a lot of stress about finances and her ability to be a parent. She never considered the impact on us. Resentful. Now the baby is here, and I adore her. Loving the baby once it was here was never the issue, but all the surrounding responsibilities and drama were really taking a toll. It's early days, but it seems my daughter is stepping up to the plate and thus far being responsible. Relieved. I have wanted to be a grandmother, and this little girl is so beautiful and precious. Grateful. I realize that my husband and I have to be the role models and providers of intellectual stimulation and education, and I must be the role model for cultivating any sense of a spiritual life. I am discovering insights and ways to do those things that will also bring me joy. Inspired. And waiting to see how it turns out.

I went to see a Reiki healer and she opened doors I didn't know were even closed. That hour was life-changing. Since that afternoon, I've cleaned up the potholes that I allowed others to make in my soul, started looking for God - still not sure there -, had straight up conversations with the people I thought were heros to me, and confronted a long ago suicide attempt. I am a happy soul and have started taking care of me, even though my mommy/wife guilt still show up on my radar. I am grateful and inspired and scared, but ultimately know that it's my only life. I have lots of years to go and I get decide how they go.

My husband lost his job 10 months ago. That one thing has completely changed MY life. At first I was worried for our family. And then I thought, "A door closes and a door opens" (thinking of him, his doors). But the door that opened was for me. I realized I was ready to start a new chapter in my life and recreated myself. Things have unfolded very organically, but whereas 10 months ago I was a stay-at-home mom homeschooling my kids with no plans to work, I now have a full-on creative business online and in person. I am teaching four art classes a week, renting a studio, posting my art online, attracting attention, meeting new people, inspiring them, helping them own their inner artists...and more. This new work, this door I walked through, is a perfect combination of all the strands of who I am. I never planned it. I didn't dream it all my life. It just happened and it happened because one door closed and another door opened. I'm excited. Scared. Grateful. Very grateful. I feel very full and like I am living a very abundant life right now. Anything is possible.

Husband and I took our 14 yr old granddaughter on a trip to paris and province . It was an opportunity to build a relationship with her and have a more intimate experience. Now when we see her she has a big smile on her face and is glad to see us.

In the past year I experienced many meaningful events. But the one that seems to stick was when I went to my home town with my sister to celebrate my dads 80th birthday. Dad is a lonely man who has pushed almost everybody out of his life, but he loves deeply and almost painfully and he is in a form of pain he cannot recognize in his current circumstances. We didn't do much together, and it was a short trip. But he filled up with love and joy before my eyes. He made me feel special and I felt capable of making another person happy. That was unexpected, and i cherish it.

I became vegan. It gave me new perspective on food, health, and ethics. I'm truly grateful to the curiosity that led me to learn more and make this change.

My very elderly aunt, my late father's only living sibling asked my cousin to bring her to my home for a visit. This was a year since my mother passed.It was a long trip for them. I felt honored, loved, comforted and grateful.

The suicide of our daughter-in-law six months ago was devestatting. It has made me rethink all the beliefs I held about suicide, depression, survivor guilt and faith. It will reonate and continue to impact our family in ways I can't begin to forsee.

Jamie, Andrew, Allie and I went on a Mediterranean cruise for the kids' 16th birthday. It was significant because the kids turned 16, we went to some fascinating and beautiful places, and because we were together for 10 days without everyday life keeping us from enjoying the time and each other. I am very grateful that we are able to afford such luxuries and are able to take the time to enjoy them. I am grateful that, no matter what happens in the future, we had that time and we have those memories. I'm relieved that we were able to spend the time together before the kids start driving and spend a lot more time away from home. I am inspired because I spent time with the people I love and admire most of all. Even though I've always known it, I am inspired by how intelligent, quick, open-minded, kind and funny the people closest to me are. They make me want to be all those things, too.

My son confronted me about his continued resentment about my remarriage, and his hurt, and entitlement, unwillingness to accept my new family. I am sad dissapointed, and in a way relieved to hear him at least voice his angst.

I left a 10 year job and to work in a field I completely know nothing about! It's a chance for me to be with family more- to be close to home and to be more involved with my kids. I've been able to be with them in the mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays. I am grateful that a friend, who barely knows me or my work ethics, vouched for me (someone without experience) for the position. I hope to be able to repay or pay the good karma forward. I am challenged and rewarded with the fact that I'm surviving in my new "unknown" world.

I met Mark. It has changed me in that I am in a loving, MATURE, committed relationship. No more "man-boys". No childish games. I love him more than anything. I am incredibly grateful that I met him. He is the most patient, caring understanding man that I have ever met.

My partner and I bought a house! It is a mixed bag emotionally. Scary. Exciting. Proud. Guilty. It seems like a major accomplishment and like selling all the way out. But it happened!

I sold my house and moved with my mother and daughter from Reading to Natick with my boyfriend and his daughters. It was a difficult transition but now I am grateful and glad I made the leap of faith.

In the past year at age 58, I obtained my license to be a clinical mental health counselor thus making me dually licensed (few months prior licensed alcohol and drug counselor). One, means I can actually support myself and my family doing what I love. Was able to get a better job, working with people I enjoy working with, and working with all ages of clients. I am grateful that I was able to do this, stay the course, returning to school at 50 to get my masters and then working very entry level jobs to get supervision hours. No resentments. Inspired - every day. Life is hard and as Adrienne Rich wrote, "...we can count on so few people to go the hard way with us." I am honored to be a part of others process.

A dear cousin/confidant/friend committed suicide. I was extremely sad. At the same time, I was relieved she was out of the chronic pain she had suffered for many years. My cousin had devoted half of her life to a job she disliked for much of that time. Her health problems and suicide made me question the high priority I have given my work. My family and friends seem more precious to me and yet I am still prioritizing them after my work. How do I change this without becoming a burden to the people I love? This is a question I put to Hashem and that I take into the new year.

My mother died two weeks ago today. I am sad but also relieved and thankful that she did not suffer. I miss her and feel that I have seen her in a new light now that I am mature and I reflect upon her whole life. She was an adventuresome, independent and strong woman who influenced me greatly in ways I only now recognize.

A significant experience that occurred in the last year is moving to Australia to study! I'm so excited to become a teacher, I feel motivated and happy to reach out to students and learn how to become a better teacher! Next week I'll be on prac and I'll be getting firsthand experience with Australian students.

Three huge experiences in the last year: First, I quit my job at NCPHS. The job itself was a perfect fit for me, but the management was horrifically dysfunctional and crazy-making, and was taking a huge emotional toll on my life. I tallied up my finances and quit. After having huge stress every week, my Chinese doctor said "Stress almost normal" the week after I quit. I felt hugely relieved. Event 2: I bought the first new car in my life. It symbolizes so much -- I started re-building my credit over a year ago with a personal secured loan from my credit union, so I was able to get a loan. The credit union also provided a car buying service, which made the whole thing easy as it could be. I love, love, love my new car, and named her TOA, for Triumph Over Adversity. Event 3: I wrote a book. It is in revisions, but I completed the first of Runaway Rembrandt and went to the Mystery Writers Conference at Book Passages, then blazed through a second draft. I also saw three agents, one of whom wants to see the novel when I get it ready for publication! A very triumphant year.

This is a looong story: A subordinate complained to my manager that I was excluding her. Whilst my Manager was on my "side" (my subordinate is a known nutcase, and has made a number of similar complaints about other colleagues - yet has never seen the common link... ie HER), working in a government organisation meant that we has to follow the proper procedure for dealing with complaints. It was a long, arduous, and very stressful process; it almost went to Industrial Relations (meaning a permanent mark on my HR file) When I was *finally* allowed to hear her actual evidence for her complaint and & defend myself - it turned out to stem from something that went back 2yrs (an issue that we had already come to blows over and I (& my Manager!) thought had been dealt with. All the other "evidence" she gave was flimsy and insubstantial, and I was able to show without a doubt that I had not excluded her, and she was just trying to stir up trouble. The upshot of it all was two fold: On the one hand, I was personally and professionally shattered - I was questioning my own integrity. I was also terrified of being branded a bully - not that the words were said, but it was her implication - and my self esteem was so non-existent that I was worried that my colleagues would believe her. On the other hand, it forced me to re-evaluate my priorities in the workplace and life. It awoke me to the knowledge that I want more from my life; having such a personal crisis opened up my mind/heart/soul and I was able to see how unfulfilled I am in current job. It gave me the opportunity to look deep within and try to find out what I need to be doing to make me truly happy. I was (and still am - this only happened last month!) quite resentful that a jealous old ladies paranoid fantasies impacted on my life so much. But it was also the kick up the bum that I needed to make positive changes to my career and to my life

My boyfriend of three years moved up to Boston to start grad school, and now we are finally living together after nine months of long distance. I'm proud that we got through this challenge so successfully, relieved that we're on the other side of it, and beyond excited to be starting this next chapter of our lives together.

I saw Foster the People with my dear bf "Gil Faison." I have never been to a better concert. I knew all the words and danced my heart out and I wasn't even self-conscious about it. Mark Foster is just amazing. He does little groovy dances onstage to get into the music and I was just beside myself 17 times becus I just couldn't hold any more excitement and fullness and joy. The whole day hangin out in Columbus with a cool cat was also a highlight. It made me feel grateful and inspired. The end.

I made a goal to take charge of my health. I started eating healthy and I am 50lbs lighter than my heaviest weight and so far have dropped over 30lbs. I am grateful to give this gift to myself, because for the first time I do not feel socially awkward. I am more sure of myself. I am inspired to continue this journey, because I feel confident and that confidence is being reciprocated. This change has given me hope again to find love, build a strong career, and built a family. I feel like I am on a journey to change my life and can envision life successes as being possible.

This year I quit my teaching job after 12 years of being there full-time, and to start my own business. It was very scary and took me a long time to finally come to this decision, but has been a wonderful experience and very invigorating. All of my loved ones, friends and colleagues completely supported this decision, which only helped to reinforce that this was the right time to do it. I am relieved, inspired, excited, scared, and uncertain, but not at all regretful. This experience has given me the courage to take even more risks, and has shown me that patience and perseverance will result in many open doors. My challenge now is to keep pushing forward into the unknown!

10 months ago I married the love of my life. After 7 years together we tied the knot. It was an unbelievable experience. Planning together. Making decisions together. Negotiating. Negotiating with others. All the while keeping our eyes on the prize, not the party, but the commitment. I'm lucky to have such an amazing partner who I work so well with. I am so grateful to have gone through this experience. A truly once in a lifetime experience.

In the past year I have had many significant experiences but the most significant was my realization that remaining in the moment at all times was the only way to be grateful, relieved, resentful or inspired about any "significant" experience. Otherwise, you lose the experience even if you don't think that you have. So when I get this 10Q back next year, I will measure my progress of living in the present moment. It is a long, slow journey but one which leaves me extremely grateful, relieved, inspired but never resentful. After all, life just is, there is nothing to resent, but that realization also comes with great practice!

I got a promotion! Seven months after formally requesting it - 15 years after my last title promotion - and hearing NO response - my requested promotion came through - along with a nice healthy raise. Grateful - yes relieved - yes suddenly aware of new responsibilities which I had not actually foreseen - also yes.

I went to Africa for the first time. And completely alone. I was only there for 5 days but it reminded me of how independent I am and how kickass that can be, especially when I was 6 hours away from the capital of Ethiopia, on a boat in the middle of a lake, and within 100 yards of wild hippos. It reminded me I need to take care of myself and do things for me, in addition to all I do for others. It's something I tend to forget, so holding on to an experience like this helps me center (or try to center) on how I want to have some balance in my life.

I realized that I was letting others take advantage of my professional insecurities. I recognized the behavior and worked with someone to help me believe in my worth. I am very grateful to the person who helped me work through this issue as well as relieved that I have overcome this major obstacle to finding meaningful work that compensates me appropriately.

My father-in-law died this past summer. He was an incredible man. Father to 5 boys, he was a great force. He never called me his daughter-in-law, but rather his daughter. My siblings and myself have never gotten along with our father, and my father-in-law was all the things in a father that I needed and had been lacking. In a very short period of time-while he lay dying in the hospital and during the shiva-I learned tremendous life lessons: about myself, about my family, about my husband and his father. I remember the minutes after he died, calling my best friend and wondering, does the world know what kind of human being it lost today? It made look at the life I live in a different way. To take a step back and look at it from the perspective of other people; how other people live their lives and why. But mostly it made realize how important family and friends and a community really are in a person's life. I was inspired to not be scared of the things I would normally be otherwise; for instance, having more children. Because my father-in-law was the person that he was, he inspired me and will continue to inspire to always be the best person I can be. To do the right thing. To give to other people and to learn.

I started to run. I wanted something for myself, a new set of life goals. You know, at a certain point in your life, you begin to realize that you stop naturally achieving things in the progression of life. You go to high school, your sweet 16, you graduate, you become an adult, you go to college, you graduate, you marry, you have kids. Then, for the most part, these automatic achievements just start to fade. I always had goals within the list above, but that's easy. Since I had achieved all that, I wanted to do something different, something for myself. So I did. I signed up for a race. I started small, and kept going. Last weekend, I finished my first 10k. Next spring? My first half-marathon. I'm not fast, exactly, but I'm determined. This is the first time in a long time I've stuck with a goal plan. I "hate" running as much as I love it, but it empowers me and makes me feel alive. I can feel all parts of my body moving in sync to make this happen, and it's truly a beautiful thing. I am grateful, I am inspired, and I am empowered. It's a simple physical activity, but I have been mentally and physically transformed.

I moved from Seattle to New Orleans in March. I left behind good friends. I also left behind a bad, off-again-on-again relationship that was emotionally very, very painful and toxic. I am...... dead inside. I miss my friends often. Some are visiting me but after six months here, I love the city but feel very alone. I don't have anyone 'close' here. I'm not sorry I moved, though I wonder if things might've levelled out if I didn't. I wonder about a relationship with someone else working out, if I'd stayed. And I wonder if I shouldn't have left my ex but also feel he should no longer be my responsibility if he could not be there for me emotionally. I am grateful for my freedom, but being totally untethered is scary sometimes. And sometimes very sad.

I quit my job and I feel relieved and relaxed.

Jesus christ, a significant experience? I met and hung out with Emo Phillips, a comedian I grew up listening to since middle school. I'm incredibly grateful and inspired by how gracious and kind he was.

The death of my brother-in-law, at age 53, from a drug overdose. It has been a profound source of sadness at points, for me. But for the most part, it has affected me indirectly through my husband, who lost someone whom he had a complicated relationship with, who he loved and who he has grieved for deeply. I am grateful to have known him, but regretful that I did not get to know him better and resentful that he did not allow me or my children to know him better.

My mother died two months shy of her 102nd birthday; having mixed emotions - some relief in that she obviously was suffering near the end, and some guilt in that I only saw her about once a year (we lived 1700 miles apart), and she passed away while I was stranded in an airport on my way to see her one last time...

I've fallen in love twice this year. Both times I told the girl how I felt about her and both times my feelings were unrequited. I'm getting used to this, sadly. The first time, I kinda knew the response I'd get. She doesn't really do boys. But I thought I had to tell her all the same. I figured it would help us both out: it would stop me living in doubt and it might be nice for her confidence to know how lovely she is. I'm grateful that I had the courage to do it instead of stewing on it in painful doubt for months. I'm relieved to have an answer. I'm saddened that it was a "no", but at least I know. I dealt with it by talking about it with two close friends. One of them challenged me to ask another person out. So I did. I asked out this other girl that I'd met through work at the beginning of the year. I liked her immediately, but I figured she was so lovely she was bound to have a boyfriend, so I didn't do anything about it at the time. The challenge from my friend helped me. It gave me a reason just to take the plunge. I asked her out and she said yes. We had 5 lovely dates together and after the fifth, I told her how I felt about her. She wanted some time to think about it, but the signs weren't good. Indeed they weren't. She was quite upset when she told me that she wasn't in the right place at the moment and couldn't give me what I want. This was harder for me to accept because I'd got my hopes up, but I do accept it - even if I don't agree with it. To be honest, I still have (very) faint hopes it's not over, but I know that's not fair on her. We've agreed not to talk to each other, but we still have occasional contact on social media and email. I was saddened by this and it made me grumpy for a few days after we'd agreed not to talk to each other. I'm mourning the loss of the future I'd imagined together. Again, I worry that I take things too far and fantasize about a future in my head instead of living in the real world. I'm trying to smile because it happened rather than cry because it's over. It certainly was a lovely way to spend the spring and early summer and I'm grateful for the wonderful time we had together.

I'm on my second post-graduation job. I spent all that time hoping to be employed, and now that I am, I wish I weren't. The contradictory human condition.

The most significant experience in the past year was the death of my mother. Her physical absence from my life can never be measured but I am grateful for her unconditional love which I will carry with me always.

The biggest thing was getting married, and the events leading up to it - working hard on being radically honest, and finding unexpected grace.

I was very lucky to spend two whole days speaking to people who have succeeded in my field. It made all of my goals and ambitions more reachable but also lit a fire under my ass to push myself even harder. But it made all these things I want more tangible. I have been working on a film for two years and it has been a bit of a drag sometimes pushing through it day-by-day, but I can't help but realize that after these days, I was able to more clearly see that it was all reachable and tangible.

My first unplanned pregnancy at 32-years-old in May/June. I don't think I'll ever forget this, so in a year I imagine it'll still be fresh to me to think of it. The sperm in question came from someone I believed I'd spend my life with. Only a few short months later, he bailed on the relationship claiming that though he loved me and only me, he'd come to the uneasy realization that to achieve his career dreams (which would keep him on the road), he'd have to let our relationship go. What an asshole. I'd had an abortion earlier, when we were new and shiny and I didn't see that coming. Now that he's gone, I don't blame him for that, at least no more than I blame myself. Sometimes you do everything right, and still things go wrong. Chalk it up to bad timing for all of it. I don't have regrets. I am though, fascinated by the experience of it from a personal standpoint. And politically, maddeningly upset that women are subjected to the judgement, bullying and downright harassment I was grateful to avoid for making the same choice I did. I also wonder if I'm too old now to ever be presented with the decision again, now that he's gone and I turn 33 this month.

The death of a dear colleague and mentor has brought about feelings of regret for not getting to know him better, and sharpened my sense of the ephemerality of our existance.

The Camino. It helped me to remember how to experience life with effortless gratitude. To experience the joy and simplicity of living - the beauty of being in nature all day, the appreciation of moving one's body, flowing in and out of social interactions, belonging to a loose group of worldly citizens - all doing the same thing. Walking, discovering, being. I loved it. I even loved myself. There was none of the 'if only I change this, life will be so much better.' It was just as it was. Not every moment wonderful, of course. There was lonliness, sometimes alienation, sometimes feeling 'old', sometimes feeling 'apart'. But it passed and there was plenty of the other - belonging, feeling competent and able. I am so grateful to have had the experience.

Three weeks ago I retired. 4 days later my husband was diagnosed withParkinson's Disease. These two events of both joy and loss have been the two most significant events in the past year, perhaps in my entire life. The intense and opposing emotion bound up togetherfor the past three weeks have affected both me and my husband greatly. I am grateful I am now home and retired since I was away from home 5-6 days per week with my career. Iam not resentful but I am fearful. The unknown is well, unknown...the future and our plans have completely changed. To what and how and for how long is only a guess. In a sense I am inspired by this new challenge but only have I had this feeling after prayer, support, tears and much talk. The future is still open but still also under the care and guidance of a loving God. Some days this brings relief, others it brings questions, still other days it bring anguish.

My son asked his long time girlfriend to marry him. He asked his grandmother, my mom, to use her engagement ring. My father gave it to her in 1950. They were married 49 years before he died. My father has been dead 13 years. Rob had the ring professionally cleaned and appraised. It looks beautiful on Leslie's hand and my mother is so excited that he wanted to use her small diamond ring for his love. The jeweler who cleaned it said that it was a very good quality but small diamond and the setting was excellent. He said it is a ring that someone should wear. I am very happy and excited to see Rob move into this stage in his life. He makes my world happy by his goodness and sense of fairness and justice. Leslie is a lovely woman. She loves him very much, you can tell in the way she talks about him, acts towards him and works with him. San Diego 10/27/14.

I was given a raise and a promotion... and then another promotion, that I'm still not exactly sure I wanted. I'm grateful that my higher ups seem to hold me in high regard, trust me to run and build the team that I have been a part of for 2 years now, but I definitely don't feel like I'm qualified for the job. I am grateful, and I'm looking forward to being inspired at the promotion... I might even be relieved when time for raises comes along, and I start getting paid somewhere close to what my position and my work product are actually worth... At the moment, I'm just kind of blase about it all...

The most significant experience of this past year for me was the day of my wedding, July 12, 2014. The day was magical. It was uplifting. It was perfect. It was spiritual. It was amazing weather, too! It was a fairy-tale. I am beaming just thinking about it, and all of the love I felt on that day. I am extraordinarily grateful for the people who surrounded me, for my grandparents who I know were up above smiling down, for my beautiful family and friends, and for my husband. My amazing husband. Just thinking about it all makes me smile and feel good inside.

I wrote an essay for the RAS about why I haven't quit surgery, why I didn't quit. It was a really good experience to think through why I do this (and submit myself to the experience), as well as the challenges I faced with my husband that we came through. Plus, the essay was well received and won 3rd place in the country. This was very reaffirming. It helps me to feel a part of this profession despite my struggles at this hospital.

My dear, sweet Mama died a year ago this Friday. It is probably the most significant experience of my life so far. Since my dad died when I was a child, I'm now, with my brother, an adult orphan at 29. I'm not sure I'm even at a point where I can reflect on how her death has affected me, but this year has been one of the most difficult, but also one of the most liberating, of my life. I have at turns felt intensely lonely, incredibly supported, exhausted, energized beyond belief, desperately sad, aching in missing her, grateful for her amazing love, exhilarated by my quest to do the things I've always wanted to do, and painfully aware of my mortality. I've dulled my pain with wine, weed, shopping, TV, food, sleep, hyper-socializing, and sex. I dyed part of my hair pink. I thought about getting a tattoo (which Mama would absolutely hate.) It's strange. I always thought that my parents dying would be the worst thing that ever happened to me, and it has been awful. But it has also been strangely liberating. Before, I worried about everything. I was cautious to the point of paralysis. I always thought, "What if?" Now there is no one standing between me and death. Now I feel inspired to live the life I imagine, because there is no one whose authority I trust enough to follow besides my own anymore. Now I am accountable to no one but myself. Life is fragile and short. I want to spend my time on earth doing exactly what I want to do. I miss Mama in my heart and my bones and my skin and my toes. I've worn her wedding rings in a necklace constantly since she died. I wear her clothes to feel closer to her; I stay in her house to feel her presence. I want to call her, to hug her, and take care of her forever. I talk about her in the present tense, as though she is still here, because she is for me. I want to tell her about how I've taken up surfing, and drumming, about the new TV mystery shows I know she would like, about the guys I'm seeing, to get her opinion about who I should date. The best I can do now is to live my life to honor hers. She wanted my brother and I to be independent, healthy and happy, adults. Let her love be our guide. Let her memory be a blessing.

I was faced with dealing with "Under Death Sentence" Inmates/Patients. I have a great deal of uncertainty or ambivalence. These are truly evil and truly tragic people in an impossible situation. I do not want to be part of their deaths, and do not want them to use me to gloss over their lives and deeds. Some scare me. Some I pity. All make me wish there was a way to actually know them and how they came to be in this terrible place. Yet, I think each of them wish to bury that part of themselves while it consumes their souls. I sometimes wish I could unhear, unsee, unlearn, unknow these things. I wish there were a way to share this without giving any part of the burden to anyone else.

Someone that I thought was a friend and someone who respected my abilities, acted totally the opposite of what I would have thought. I was really disappointed even though in the situation of 'a contract renewal' - maybe because of the situation I recognize that the person's worst behavior and values were on display. I learned that one cannot assume or expect anything. Hopefully I will remember this before the next time I am again in the situation.

Nanna developing serious illness and needing to move to full time care. Feel sad but determined to value family and the time spent together with family and friends.

I was married to my beautiful wife in June. The ceremony and following reception affected me deeply. It was a day where we were surrounded by our two immediate families. We were both profoundly touched by the love we felt on that day. The ceremony solidified my commitment to my wife and inspired me to be more open, supportive and honest with her.

I was challenged professionally. The new teacher evaluation shattered my self confidence. I hadn't ' realized how much of my sense of well being came from these reviews. It brought me to my knees! I wept, cried out, and berated myself for failing at a job I had excelled at for 29 years. I took it personally. It hurt my home life, the children, and my work. I very nearly quit teaching, despite the positive feedback from peers and students and parents. Finally I had to wrestle that demon. I won, but it was a hard victory and left me tenuous and still a bit scared. I learned that my worth is not measured by a stranger with a clipboard.

I met a man who I embarked on a year long journey with that has been amazing and terrible and confusing and sad. I compromised myself and my dignity at times to please him and to make sure he stayed with me. I do believe I have grown tremendously in my sexuality, but at what cost? I deserve to be loved not just fucked, yet I keep going back to him trying to please him, knowing that he will never change or be what I need. I'm disappointed in myself for my inability to walk away and for hurting people in my life who truly love and care for me in order to stay in the good graces of of an individual who doesn't respect, love or cherish me in the way I deserve. I hope I can do better for myself in the future, because I do deserve it, even if it's hard to realize that now. If I could Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind him, I would.

We did a documentary that was sold together with the local newspaper. It was not as successful as we dreamt, but it made me go out and offer our work in new ways.

Getting to travel for work and demonstrate the great fit I am for my job and being able to shine and build something was certainly amazing. The best part of the job is meeting people and interacting with their cultures and assumptions and expand my own perspective. This without a doubt was the most inspiring thing that happened again and again this past year, having my expectations and assumptions challenged and interacting with amazing folks.

I trained for and ran my first full marathon, for charity, and completed it! I felt thankful for the great support from my Team in Training coach, good about raising money and awareness to fight cancer, and better about myself. The training experience and commitment to the cause were great stress relievers and life levelers.

I got married this past year on 11/29/2013. This was a miracle in and of itself. I married the most incredible woman. Now the rubber is hitting the road. After 3 years of bliss, we are quickly moving forward with plans for the future. To me, some of this seems to fast- but as older adults, we don't have time to tarry. I am VERY grateful. I am occasionally stubborn, maybe close to resentful for change. I am inspired by the depth of love and respect we share.

Waking up in the early hours not knowing where I was and feeling fear that is out of control,all encompassing terrifying dark black deep fear. I am relieved beyond words that I have now taken control but still slightly anxious of it happening again.

I got engaged (and am about to be married in three days). Since I never planned to be married, it definitely shook my world up, but I'm grateful and inspired. Honestly, the obligation scares me, but the possibilities reassure me.

I finally received an accurate diagnosis for my health not "mental health" problem and had corrective surgery. All along I had Achalasia and was misdiagnosed for many, many years and took medication that I may have never needed. I have been symptom free since 5/28/2014! I did not fully realize how debilitating the pain that I was in for so long was. I can eat and drink what I want and am no longer afraid of my next "panic attack". It is so important to advocate for yourself and keep discussing a problem that is not getting better with the treatment that a doctor prescribes. I really had to hit rock bottom to get there through an ER visit and wish I had trusted my instincts more and listened to my loved ones. I am so thankful for a wonderful GI doctor and an amazing surgeon at Yale for changing my life!

My daughter married her soul mate last May 31. She mey him in high school but they made their careers and found each other again 18 years later. She was a single mom with a 15 year old son and he loves them both as a man should love his wife and child. It inspired me that she never settled and took on the responsibility of raising her son and waited until she found the right partner for the both of them.

This past year has been filled with a whole lot of growth and change. If I had to choose one specific event, I would probably say my participation in an Encounter trip, and my involvement with Encounter and the conflict as a result of that trip. Although I already knew a lot of what I had seen, I felt a deep sadness as a result of the trip, and a fiery desire to share what's happening there with others. I think I also realized how much I want to work to make this world a safer place for all to live, and how passionate I am about that sort of work. It inspired me, but also disappointed me, made me very angry and sad and confused. I feel as if I've lived a whole lot this past year, experienced a lot. Grandma's passing is still raw and I'm dying to figure out if I'm grieving still and how it all affected me. I miss her so deeply. My move to the South brought with it lots of experiences that challenge my identity and also push me to think about what I really want in life. My relationship with Amir has helped me to see what I want in a partner, and also the sort of love I don't want (what I don't want to settle for). That experience still hurts- I feel so much love for him. this answer is a bit of a mess- I'm working to forgive myself, and I hope in a year looking back on where I am emotionally right now will feel cathartic but also inspiring. I hope I find acceptance in myself

A significant experience in the past year... Hmmm. I don't feel like there was one. I do feel like there is one coming. I turn forty in 6 months. And I can't wait!

My 3yr old son forgiving me 6 months after I returned from deployment...he was bit by a baby rattle snake and wanted me to sleep in the hospital bed with him and not daddy. That one day changed our relationship.

My mother passed away. I feel relieved for her, she was 91 and her life had become increasingly difficult and uncomfortable. She lived well, pursuing her interests and maintaining positive and loving relationships with each member of the family. And she had a good long run. I'm sad for me though. I will miss her terribly. We had always been close, and in the last decade I became her companion, defender and portal to the world. I spent an increasing amount of time with her, and now there will be an enormous hole in both my heart and my schedule.

My cat died unexpectedly. I try not to think of her. Minor health things, new job. No. Nothing really significant. So I'm mostly grateful.

When I completed this challenge last year, I was in the middle of going through a breakup with a man I had been with for five years and had been planning a future with. To say I was devastated would be an understatement. This would be a difficult time for any woman, especially one on the cusp of turning 30 like myself. I completed this questionnaire last year at a time where I felt lost, angry, hurt, self-loathing, confused...you name it, I felt it. Fast forward 365 days and I have reconnected with an old friend who introduced me to his friends, I traveled around Europe for two weeks with several of these friends, visited them numerous times and became a part of their family unit, visited Texas with these same friends, and finally moved out of state in July. This past year brought me the support and the courage I needed to take my life by the balls and make a leap of faith and just live. This past year taught me not to settle. It taught me that with the encouragement, support, help, and love from people who genuinely care about me that anything is possible. I'm grateful to have had the opportunities that I have had in the last year, and I'm so completely thankful for these friends I've gained. Situations and relationships change as people grow and evolve...or in some instances stay stagnant. I've learned to eliminate toxic relationships and situations that no longer serve me or my well-being. This past year has brought me a new living situation, new friends, new town, new city, new job...so many new things that at this time last year I only hoped would maybe sorta happen. To see that almost everything I hoped for happened makes me feel extremely thankful, grateful, inspired, alive, happy, and positive. Compared to last year I feel it's almost a 180-degree turn. I hope that this year brings more of the same joy and happiness. (Side note: I had a much better reply typed out, but my computer browser reloaded on me and I lost it...typical of me, haha)

I planned and pulled off a trip to Peru, hiking a very challenging course that felt almost impossible at one point. During the hiking and the rest of the trip, I felt so incredibly fortunate to have the time, support of my family, finances, and dream to have made it there. I left Peru wanting to take more control of my life and my happiness, embracing my true nature and strengths, and hoping to find humor in situations I used to take too seriously.

This year I finished my doctorate and graduated. I feel both relieved and proud of this accomplishment. I can't believe the process is completed. I am so grateful of the many new meaningful relationships that have formed throughout this journey. I look back and realize how my perspectives have hanged and my passions have become now fine tuned. I am now better able to understand the systems and appreciate my role. I do to know if I will ever embark on such a long project as this, and I am grateful it is over and I can move on.

When my wife had a seizure, I thought for a time that I might lose her. For the first few weeks after it, I continued to worry often. I now think she's okay and that the seizure may have been a one-time thing. Only time will tell.

My mother has recently been diagnosed with cancer. She is just now coming to terms with the diagnosis, but doesn't yet have all the information she needs. Treatment has been delayed as it has taken some time to find the primary cause of the cancer, initially her GP referred her to a haemotologist as he believed it was myeloma, and the doctors have been focusing on relieving the issues caused by the degradation of her bones caused by this metastasis. (Apparently she has to be well enough before they will start chemotherapy.) This is how they found the cancer; back pain, a radiologist that was due to give an epidural to relieve this who wasn't happy with what he saw, a referral to the haemotologist, who then requested a bone marrow biopsy which showed it wasn't myeloma and then a leision biopsy that confirmed adenocarcinoma without clear indication of the primary site. It has now been confirmed as lung cancer, there is a family meeting on Monday which will give some answers to everyone. As a nurse I have had a slight (dis)advantage over my family, but luckily as a realist you come to terms with life a little quicker and get on with what needs to be done, while still hoping for the best. At least after Monday everyone should be on the same page and what little knowledge I have I can share openly, rather than keeping what I know to myself as I don't have all the answers and a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing. Am I relieved - ask me again on Monday night.

I took a traveling job that I swore I wouldn't take again. It has been very difficult to maintain my relationship with my partner because I promised I wouldn't leave our home again and I was/am gone for 6 months on the opposite side of the country. I am grateful for the income and to travel to a few new places but I am scared that the most important relationship in my life now might be strained.

I bought my own home in Feb 27, 2014. At 56, it is the third home I have owned, but the first I have owned by myself. Post divorce it feels so good to have a home that is mine. I am beyond grateful. I feel like an adult again. I have a home base for myself and my children, who are adults and do not live with me anymore, but who love the house and can call it theirs and store their stuff here. Owning a home makes me feel whole again. This is a major step in regaining my sense of self, confidence and ability to feel comfortable in my place in the world. I can call this lovely townhouse home. I invite friends and family here. I can be hospitable and feed people , because my home feeds and nurtures me. During my divorce and the total financial and emotional collapse of my husband, the losses were too many to count. I did not know if I was ruined or would scrape by. More importantly, I could not imagine a future for so many years, much less buying and establishing a happy home. That is what I have now. I am so very grateful.

I had a hole in one on the golf course. I was on cloud 9 for quite some time because, first of all, it is rare to get one, and secondly I was with my husband and two of my best friends when it happened. It was a day to remember because never in a million years did I think I'd ever get a hole in one. Im not that great of a golfer.

I made a commitment to bring the arts back into my life and share any modicum of talent I have with the world. This is what I feel I am meant to do; it brings me joy and pleasure and lets me help people feel. I am very grateful for this and for the people that created opportunities for me to do this. They have been so generous. I am inspired to do more of this, and doing this has become a reminder of the importance of noting what comes naturally, our gifts that come from some incredible force of nature.

What started off as a vacation has turned into an unexpected semi-permanent move. I don't know. Yes@no, no@yes, almost, and sometimes. A-fish-out-of-water

i bought a house and i am so greatful

We opened our commercial kitchen. I am so relieved and grateful to have it. We have shown it off to some clients and it is a serious point of pride.

I finally started a new job after three years of unemployment, and I am SO grateful and SO delighted!

I took my firstborn child to college. I cried buckets for months, really, and I still feel a little bereft; we are close, he and I, and I miss him. But i'm unbelievably proud of him, too. He's a good person, he is smart, and he is going to do amazing things. I have always told him that he should go and do what he honestly desires to go and do, and let it take him to amazing places. I told him not to be held back by any misplaced sense of obligation to parents or by any feeling of pressure. My way of saying, You Do You, Baby. I might live to regret saying it, in my own selfish way, but I am trying hard to set him free to live a wonderful life.

Attended Mastering Leadership Dynamics -previously Farr. It has shown me a new way to look at myself and others.

I traveled to Guatemala for 8days. During my short time there, I connected with a family who "adopted" me in San Juan La Laguna. They welcomed me into their family of 8 children and showed me around the town. I happened to be there during their week long celebration for San Juan. Grandparents and great grand parents came and the mother cooked her traditional meal of chicken soup and Tamales in her outdoor kitchen over an open fire. This is the way they cook every day. The meal was humble, but made with so much love. They treated me like an honored guest. The children dressed in their traditional Mayan clothes and danced a traditional dance and included me in the dance, showing me the steps. The grandparents shared their stories of pain during the genocide in which one of ther children was murdered. I drank Quetzalteca, a sweet liquor, with the elders. I took the children out to have fun on the carnival rides, and bought each family member an article of clothing which they badly needed. At the end of my stay, they gifted me a hand made Huipal, a hand woven shirt with embroidered roses. The children cried when I left. I am so grateful for this experience, sharing a family's traditions, hearing their stories, celebrating with them their cherished holiday. I was humbled by their generous hospitality and welcoming spirit.

June said "Daddy" and "Mommy". It warmed our hearts. It was also very relieving because with her hearing trouble we were very worried about her speech delay. Especially nice, was when she associated us with the words and asks about us during the day when we aren't around.

Being diagnosed with primary cancer for the third time was a shock. When I found it was rarer than my previous breast cancer 21 years ago, I was shocked and concerned not for me, but for my family who has had their share of tests of faith over the years. Whilst undergoing chemotherapy I felt fear for the first time. Me the strong woman who deals with everything was teary at times when I thought I would never be well again. But still I would not show those tears in front of my loved ones. I was resentful that I had been chosen yet again to go into battle with this dreaded disease. I started to lose my faith but still went to shul. The rabbi explained that I had to lose my faith if I was to regain that strong connection I once had. I believe he was right. I am now ten weeks out of chemotherapy and my faith in God and Judaism is once again growing strong and I am reconnecting with my synagogue. I am grateful for being spared again, to live life to the full and experience new things. I no longer despair over my health and look forward to travelling over the next year.

The birth of my daughter was a very significant experience this past year. The love and light that shines from my daughter into me reminds me everyday of how blessed and grateful I am to have her in my life. There have been days that have been a great struggle, but I look at her and I know that every sacrifice I make is for her and the love I have for her.

The birth of my nephew occurred this past year. There are many new ways to love. I have, for certain, found another one. The time we spend together while his mama and daddy are at work has been very special to me. I wondered if I would love him like I love my own children. In all the positive ways, I do love him as if he is mine. But I also have loved watching his parents grow along with him.

I have had several significant experiences this year. 1. I developed a pulmonary embolism and could have died 2. My husband asked me for a divorce 3. I bought a new house and began to rebuild a residence The one that I would pick to discuss is buying a house and rebuilding my safe haven. I am an introvert that is surrounded by people all day, so having a haven, a place to be still and to recharge my batteries is critical to my well being. After it became evident that my marriage was going to end, there was a time that we still shared a house. This might have been some of the most stressful time in my life because I lost having a safe zone. My house became a tension filled and unwelcoming, so finding a place to make safe again was so important. I am slowly doing this. And I have felt every emotion possible in the months since. Joy when the fence went in, keeping my dog safe. Anxiety and aggravation during the whole loan process. Loneliness during that first night on my own in the house. Relief when all the kitchen boxes were finally unpacked. Pissed off because I have to do this to begin with. Excited because it's mine, mine, mine to do with whatever I want. Pride when the new color turned out just right. Worried that I am making decisions based on emotion, not rational thought. On, and on, and on. Mostly, though, I am grateful. Grateful that I have a support system. Grateful that I am learning how to ask for help. Grateful that I am learning that some people find joy in giving help. Grateful that I am not alone, even during this time when I should feel the most alone. I would never have chosen the circumstances that led me to rebuilding my safe haven -- but I am a better person for knowing what support and help I have for life's ups and downs.

I married a wonderful man. I am happier than before but worried that I will not be enough to keep him happy. Yes, I am grateful....and inspired.

Had my son. It greatly affected my life, not only emotionally, but every aspect. Affected me in areas I didn't even realize emotionally and mentally. Not a relief or the opposite as it takes a lot of hard and tiring work, but is so rewarding. I love him more than anything in the world. I guess you could say inspired, not resentful at all. It has also brought me closer to my wife.

A significant experience that has happened to me is, that I realized how much debt I have from credit cards. As my husband & I are getting ready to purchase our first new home, this debt is causing us to have a higher interest rate :( This is though inspiring me to save my money, and pay off gradually.

This past year, we moved from Austria to Singapore. Having not yet started work, I'm still feeling very transitory, and it has opened up great new possibilities in the coming year. It has given me time to reflect on what I want and how to achieve this. And, it has made me realize that I am not a slave to my fears. I am relieved to be out of the cold and dark, but saddened to have left the most rewarding job I have ever had. I feel hopeful, and I am trying to make the most of my liminal period.

A close friend of mine was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Her doctor at Johns Hopkins treated her; she went into remission, it recurred and they told her there was nothing they could do. My friend, not one to shy away from intellectual pursuits decided to spend her days finding a doctor who would not give up on her. Now she is in treatment with a reputable doctor who is not in a big practice and she has hope again. And I have hope for her survival.

My mom died on December 18, 2013. I knew it was coming. We all knew it was coming, she was being consumed by cancer, but no amount of knowing could have stopped it. And no amount of knowing could have kept the light on in my heart when she left. This world is a dark, dark place. I was there and saw her alive the week before, I had to leave for a week, but I should have stayed, I should have been there at the end, because she was so scared and in so much pain. I'll never forgive myself for not being there with her for the scariest and most painful thing in her life.

I went back to work as a social worker. This experience has lasted the full year. One year ago, I started part time, and then in January I began filling in for another social worker and gained full time hours. By March 31, I had found a new position at a different company working full time. I am so grateful for being hired and being given a chance in the dialysis world. I love my job. I am so proud of myself and I have come so far in 12 months. I feel like I can do anything.

I began a doctoral program spending 3 days a week 200 miles away from my family. It changed my life completely in both positive and somewhat negative ways. Positively because it is something I have always wanted to do and it certainly pushed me in ways I didn't think possible. Negatively because it took me away from my family and thrust me into an environment that is sometimes unhealthy (too much competition, pettiness, etc.) I continue to be thankful and inspired. I think it is also beneficial for my children to see their mother work, sacrifice, and work hard to achieve goals.

I got an apology from my mother that I never thought I would get. It lightened me and opened me up a little. I'm grateful and still processing it. It is allowing me to move to a more positive place where I am my own success story.

Today, the Chicago Tribune covered an event that I had organized on the front page. It was a welcome visit to a Muslim school that had moved into the building formerly occupied by my child's school, Solomon Schechter. They covered it as a Rosh Hashanah story of hope. I am relieved, inspired, grateful and astonished.

I left my job - where I worked for an organization I (mostly) believed in and where I was valued but could not grow. It's the first time I've quit a full-time job. I am happy to be in a new place where I can grow, but nervous that I will not find a place where my work is as important and can make an impact.

I was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I feel blessed to be a member, but continue to ask "why?" too often to feel the grace of the atonement more clearly or hear the Holy Ghost for guidance.

I sold my home because my family became upside down on our bills. We ended up using the positive equity and paid off all our unsecured debt and have a little extra left over. I was grateful to sell the home because we had no way out of our financial situation. I'm inspired of the future because I'm learning more about personal finance and optimistic about our future. Hopeful by next year we would have enough for a down payment for another home.

I finally was able to leave my horribly abusive boss. After nine years of both physical and emotional abuse I found a new job that allowed me the opportunity to quit while holding my head up. Saying goodbye to my friends and saying goodbye to the work I had developed over a decade of my life was significant. It has been hard to adjust when you have lost a bit of your center. Starting from scratch with new people, with new expectations is hard, but I know I can do this. I want to be able to hold my head up for all the things I can do. She did not take that away from me.

I am getting my masters in library science, and got fired from my job at the library this year for signing up to read stories to kids. A couple days before this, I was told in not so many words that I should consider quitting my master's and just seeking work in the circulation area of the library. Just one problem. I believe circulation is a huge part of librarianship, and I think that a degree is very helpful for that, whether or not it's where I end up. But I got fired because I signed up for storytime before I was "properly trained", despite having done a storytime activity and receiving emails sent to a group asking for storytime leaders. It was one of the worst days of my life. I was not expecting it one tiny bit and it has left me SO bitter and SO angry. I just can't let it go. I just can't let it go. I put my best into that job and I got fired for trying to go the extra mile. I love the library field and I want to be in it. I want to make a difference. I want to connect people with information and stories that make them smile and think and learn and be whisked away. I am still going for my library degree, but a part of me feels so defeated, like I am never going to be anything, like this is all pointless, because the only thing they seemed to care about was marketing. That's important, but what's really important is the people that come in every day. I just want to make them my priority. I just want to serve the public. Please let me serve the public. Please don't let this be my last library job. Please let me find a job that I can be proud of that appreciates my people-centric philosophy. I just want to make a difference like so many others have made for me. I just want everyone to have the experiences with books that I have had, to be taken away completely and share these vivid worlds and learn all this new information. Please let me get there. Please make it mean something.

My husband & I went on a mission trip to India. It was amazing. I was joyful while there and also joyful to return home. God showed me some things about myself...keep my eyes focused on Him, not what others are doing and together my husband & I make a great team if I choose to be on his team. I want to go back next year but am worried it won't work out because of summer guests.

I started school to become a therapist. Fucking amazing. Didn't expect or think I'd ever find my "calling" in work. And then I did.

The most significant experience I have had this past year is my trip to Indoor Nationals. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Originally, the plan to run Indoor Track was to prepare for Outdoor Track. I spent all of 2013 fall preparing by myself with the help of a coach; I worked on form, proper technique, and strength. The goal was to be prepared for the Indoor season; something I have never ran until I was a junior. As a way to test my progress, in early December I ran an open college meet. That meet went par, not really sure how much I improved from the 2013 Outdoor season because I was unsure of how to run the 800 on an indoor track. Then Indoor season started, I was swept into the fold of freezing, often night-like practice times that left me miserable (however, looking back on it I feel a sense of nostalgia whenever I inhale the cold morning air). For the first few dual meets I did okay, I felt unsure of how to compete in the Indoor distances until I hit a state meet. Before I go any further, the primary event I ran was and still is the 600m, a race that many hate but I happen to enjoy. At that state meet, that specific meet, I suddenly felt that I had found an untaught pace that only experience could teach. I dropped over 5 seconds and placed fourth overall. My time topped the leader board for two heats, not bad for someone in the first heat of 4. Ecstatic as I was about my new PR more good news was to come. My friends told me that I had qualified for the first level of the Indoor Nationals for 2014, I never planned on that. Later I found out that I was several seconds off the top tier for nationally ranked high school athletes. The next few state meets, I steadily dropped time in increments, but by the end of the season I soon became ranked 10th nationally and came within reach of breaking a school record. Now, Indoor Nationals is nothing that I ever experienced before. I came in ranked 10th from the 600, little did I realize that it didn't mean squat when the distance reverted to Outdoor distances. I ended up running the 400m, an event I had limited experience to. Not only did it show, but I finished 2nd to DFL. But then I realized how much success I had, I came into Indoor for the first time at an older age, inexperienced, and came out with a national ranking. I had improved far more than I had anticipated, and now I have the experience to help me know how to prepare for the next indoor season, which I eagerly await.

My brother revealed to me that his girlfriend is pregnant. He told me when I came for a visit when she was 7 months along. The fact that he didn't reveal it before he had to, was because he didn't want to be judged - at the same time was grossly irresponsible of him, as he is broke, living with my dad, and it my dad that is supporting him, his girlfriend, and their other baby. Clearly, he has no regard for my Dad, or the burden that he is putting on my Dad. Let alone the question of whether he should be having kids at his age. Later, before the baby was even born, it sounds as if he has fallen in love with another woman - whether anything happens between him and this other woman I don't know. How did it make me feel? I already have conflicted feelings about my brother - alternating between feeling as if I should help him more (financially) vs. Thinking he needs to grow up, mature, and act like a man. Now I think he is mentally ill, and just not a very nice person. Not sure I want to interact with him more than absolutely necessary.

Our family's around-the-world trip left me super inspired! Leaving NYC for a year allowed all of us to take inventory of what we value in our community. We learned more about what we treasure and what we are lacking here in America.

This summer I started my first official job, at a Shaw’s supermarket. I had some community service experience beforehand, so I had somewhat of an idea what to expect from working for actual pay. As it turns out, there is a significant difference between working for three hours at my own, deliberate pace and working for six hours at what seems like warp speed, always knowing that two or three more people are waiting in line behind the current customer. The worst part is standing for those six hours. I thought my legs were going to give out those first few days, but fortunately, it gets better. Alternating between being a cashier, bagging, and bringing in shopping carts from the parking lot that people leave on an incline, waiting for it to roll into someone else’s car all seem to shorten the time until I can punch out. The wage is decent, $8.15 an hour with regular wage increases, and the hours are flexible. Even though the job is tedious, it is valuable working experience, and that never hurts a college application. Plus, imagine how awful eight or ten straight hours would seem if my only experience was three.

This actually happened 1 1/2 years ago. It was the loss of my father. His passing has always been a thought I avoided. I believe I have never loved anyone more than my father, and I believe he may have loved me more than anyone else. We did not always agree and sometimes had significant arguments. Yet, our love ran deep. I nursed him during those last days and we totally switched roles. He trusted me more than anyone, even his beloved wife of 65 years, my mother. Somehow, being with him those last days made his passing so much easier to accept. I am grateful and relieved. I am also inspired, as I feel it is now much easier to accept end of life on this earth.

This year I walked away from a six year marriage. It was filled with frustration, anger and most of all apathy. The opposite of love isn't hate.. It's apathy This change has shown me that I can stand on my own two feet and that I can do anything. I don't need a man to feel validated

As a senior I got into my first real relationship with a girl I had previously "dated" in the eighth grade. She and I hadn't talked since then and at the beginning of senior year we started talking again. I fell in love with her. Hard. Like imagine diving off the empire state building without a parachute and hitting concrete, hard. She and I dated for 11 months and broke up because of college. I think its a shitty reason to break up but it made her happy so whatever. I'm really happy that we got together, she changed me. I know this sounds really dumb and cliche, but she made me a better person, and that wasn't and isn't bullshit. I'm so happy that this happened, but I'm really sad at the same time, because, yes, we broke up. The worst (and best part) was that it was a very clean breakup, we both knew it was going to happen from the beginning, hell, we didn't expect the relationship to even last as long as it did. This means that even though she is my ex, she is also still my BEST FRIEND, I couldn't bear losing her as a friend. So she still means the world to me. I know that "stuff" is going to happen in college and it makes me so jealous that it isn't with me. I wish I didn't care about her and that I could just get over it, but every time I do, every single time I try, I just end up reminiscing about all the good times we've had and just end up crying. I wish I didn't care, but I do, so much, and I just can't help it. So I guess to answer the question. I'm overall grateful that it happened because I'm a better person because of it, and I'm glad that I'm able to care about someone as much as I do about her. I still love you sheep, and I know that it will never change. Ever. I'll love you no matter what, as a friend or a boyfriend or whatever. Forever and always (somehow) yours , Monkey.

My job was eliminated when the company I worked for was purchased. It made me grateful to have a position and surprised at my willingness to try something I never would otherwise have been interested in. Even more unbelievable, I made it work and enjoyed it.

My husband and I were going to purchase a cabin in the mountains. The property was directly across the street from our current vacant lot but it was already developed with a house on it. We put a bid in and were qualified for a loan. We were planning on selling one property to buy another. I love our lot it gives me a feeling of well being and peace. I was conflicted between giving my husband his wish, a house in the mountains, or maybe never being able to build one on our lands. After talking to my husband about these feelings, he agreed with me that the vacant land had more meaning to us and we pulled out of the deal. I was so grateful that we were able to communicate and come to a successful conclusion.

Moving to Boulder, Colorado was a major experience for me in the past year. At least so far, it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I've been so happy, I love this city, and I love everything about living here. There are so many activities to take advantage of, and I live in a great apartment with my boyfriend. It has showed me how important it is to chase your dreams and take on challenges and new experiences, even if it is unclear what will happen in the future (and even when not everyone supports your decision).

about a year ago i was in a miserable position at my job. i work to live and the position needed to be held by someone who lives to work. i found an opportunity, via executive coaching, to change from an account management role to a role in human resources. my initial thought looking back was that i am relived to not hate my job anymore, and i am, but when i took a bit to think about it, the one word that feels right to me-the one that makes my stomach hurt a little-is proud. i am proud of myself. that decision has allowed me to changed my life.

My sister gave birth to her first child - the first child in our immediate family. She'd planned a home birth, but the baby was breach, and she ended up in an emergency c-section. The baby was born healthy, and everything seemed fine. But a short time later, my sister passed out several times. She was rushed back into surgery, but the doctors had difficulty finding the hemorrhage, and the event was nearly fatal. Though I was hundreds of miles away, I felt very connected to my sister the whole time. I felt her life slipping away. Until I was able to see her in person a few weeks later, I didn't feel completely whole again. The feeling of losing my sister was the worst I've experienced in my life. But seeing her and her baby together was far more moving than I had expected. Though she and her husband decided not to get sonograms during pregnancy, she knew her baby would be a girl. She named the baby Hope, long before she was born. I usually think of myself as a very rational, down to earth person, but the connection my sister felt to her child and the connection I felt to my sister sent me into some deep thought. Whatever else comes from all of this, I am more glad than I can say to have my sister still here, and I'm already so proud of the mother she has become.

Separation from husband. It hurt but there is also a lot of relief on my part. I don't feel like I have to act a certain way just to keep the peace. I feel freer to choose my path now.

One Friday night last fall, my oldest son told me that his girlfriend was pregnant. He wanted to keep the baby, but she wasn't sure. Before they could figure things out, my son totaled the family car the following weekend. He was drunk and got arrested. He assaulted the officer who arrested, and of course, he was underage at the time, so it was all a huge mess. He got kicked out of school (where I was a vice president at the time), didn't have a job, and couldn't drive. His girlfriend hung in there with him, and so did we and so did his brothers, and in the spring he started back to school, he got his license back, and in April he and his girlfriend had a lovely baby girl. He has been a good dad--and she has been a good mom, and the rest of us are playing our parts as grandparents and uncles. It is hard for my son and his girlfriend to do this; they are not married and may not get married. But we are all trying to help each other and so far, it is working.

I got fired for the first time in my life. At 34 years old. I've been unemployed for almost 3 months now....I'm just about 1/2 way through my unemployment benefits (which are a complete joke...but allow me to keep my car) and I have fallen into a black hole of depression so far that I don't know if I'm ever going to be able to get out of it. I have completely lost interest in damn near everything I love. I stopped exercising, quit eating well, and just generally don't give a damn about anything. I have managed to read more....due to the fact that I have some time on my hands...but that's about it. I wanted to learn how to crochet....that's kind of fallen by the wayside too. I want to be productive...but just don't have the energy anymore. I want to sleep and just disappear into the void of darkness that seems to be quickly absorbing my soul. Yeah....aren't I just a ray of sunshine? Hopefully next year will find me in a better spot.

I will name 3: I met Milo. I quit my job at SEIU. I got a dog. Oh and I bought a house! Now I am searching to find a memorable experience, the feeling ---- I find myself searching for memories of fun and community. I was Paleo for 6 months or something - and at the beginning it was with the Wilkes Barre team. I felt really good and right in my body. Just typing this makes me want to eat sweet potatoes. I spent so many nights at TGIFridays or Applebees. Guacamole and Chips. Salmon. I shopped at Wegmans. Basically working for SEIU was a whole lifestyle - living on the road, in a hotel. I spent probably 80% of nights in the last year in a hotel. It was an amazing experience and then it really stopped working for me. I really enjoyed being part of a team on new organizing campaigns - being in it with someone - sharing the load. But once we got to the contract campaigns it was untenable for me. I was lonely, overworked, miserable, and the work was tough too. My expectations were squashed so it was hard to keep charging forward, leading workers, when it just wasn't inspiring to me. I felt like I was holding a big titanic like boat up, and any minute it would sink - and everyone would see my failure. What people saw was my success, and my bowing out in the middle of a campaign. I'm struggling to find a path that is right and meaningful and important for myself. I'm spending several hours a day at the shelter right now and fostering Ralph, the blue fawn pitbull. I am exhausted every night (is that the exercise or going back to eating sugar and wheat?) I'm pet sitting. I've kept Ice Cream alive for almost 3 months now. I love this dog. I am so grateful for the animals in my life. I'm grateful to own this house, too, but keep having nightmares where it falls down. It's difficult to have minimal employment and such a huge responsibility. Right now I am just so happy that it is fall again - I can feel myself grounding, feeling the earth, feeling myself again. Soon it will be chilly. Soon there will be pumpkins, and right now Ice Cream is snoring lightly at the foot of the bed.

I was re-hired by a company I had left for several months in order to pursue another opportunity. After the other opportunity did not work out, I was grateful to be re-hired part-time and eventually full-time by my previous employer. They continue to demonstrate grace and compassion to this day. As an added bonus, I now have a terrific employee who was brought in while I was away from the company.

Scott's death. Mostly I've felt discouraged, scared of the world in a whole new way. Changed forever. It's been a journey, I was thinking that this time last year, I was still in shock, unable to cope with the most mundane tasks of the day. Now I feel capable of the day to day but my soul still aches and I feel both this sense of urgency and regret.

My wife had a cardiac arrest. She survived CPR and coma. I was shocked relieved overwhelmed concerned felt responsible many different emotions

I got a new dog on my birthday last year. She is a Great Pyrenees, a breed I never owned before. Her name is Phoebe. She definitely has a mind of her own, and is a big and powerful doig .. but she has invigorated my life, and made me see things more from her youthful perspective. The breed is powerful, but protective, and she has reaffirmed my belief that is natural to look out for those whom are weaker and have less than you. She's not a hunter or a fighter, and if harrassed or attacked, she will just put a paw on it, and quell the confrontation. She reminds me and teaches me every day how to handle difficult situations

The many changes in my relationship with my partner has put me out of balance, not knowing where to go. Realizing that I do not have any direction and that my line of life had taken as many curbs as I allow because, and I allow all, because I am not capable to direct it. It had affect me profoundly. I found my self without too much energy, and at loose, like a sailboat that is lost in the sea. No matter where I look I can found the way to land. I am not resentful, I am not Relieved, I am not inspired. But although I am grateful, I feel like nothing will change or have too. But I want changes to happen. I am not happy where I am. Will I do something. Not sure.

Finding out that my dad is dying. It has made me re-examine myself is so many ways. My relationship with him, my step-mom, my brothers, even my friends. I am learning to be grateful yes, for every day, every moment that we have with him. Resentful and mad, even "hating" this disease that is taking him away slowly and exhausting trying to be "strong" for him.

I was hired at a new school! Whohooo! What a brave choice for me to leave a job that seemed wonderful on paper (but was really a miserable place to be and poorly run) and come to a new and BIG change in my life. It's been an intense transition but I'm feeling good about it already and feel like I'll be doing REAL work and REAL teaching.

Too many experiences all pop out at once, I can't even narrow down one. I became involved in my first serious relationship which was all together a relief, a comfort, and much too short-lived. I think about him all the time. I enjoyed his company, his humor, and he got me through a strange transitional point in my life. I also made two large moves--both of them momentous and very significant. One felt like a defeat, a resignation, a hibernation even. A chance to collect myself and rest through the winter. The other, more recent move was a terrifying springing forward into the unknown--into grad school, a new job, and a new city. The transition was incredibly difficult and I'm still adjusting. So far, I'm very happy with my choice. The whole year was full of large, important life choices and cross country moves.

During the year 2013 I travelled back home in West Africa y to visit my parents. It was a very memorable moment as I got the chance to chat with my mother and my siblings. I am very grateful to have been able to go back to my roots because not many people are able to go back home once in a while. I know so many people that have not been able to go back since they left their countries. I am inspired by things I saw: There are so many things we take for granted in the developed countries. The happiest people I have ever come across happen to live in places we think are the poorest of the poorest. people have so little to go by, but they are so grateful to be alive or (and) healthy.

I'm going to answer this as the last 365 days, not the last calendar year (as in 2014). I got married to a man who I love. We've been together for a long time - geez, 8 years now I guess? So I wasn't expecting making it official to change anything for us, but it somehow did, at least for me. I feel like we're more committed to each other - before, we'd fight and he'd say, well I guess you'd better break up with me then. But he hasn't said anything like that since (though we've certainly had fights). We're in this for the long haul, and where we said that before, now it feels like we mean it.

I heard my knee would need to be replaced . . again. I felt some relief that at least there would be a solution. I felt frustrated it would take me until January of the next year to have that solution take place. Living with pain for 8 months made me angry and the previous surgeon for making a mistake. I felt more angry that he blew me off when I told him the knee wasn't working. My focus has become one of figuring out how to content with the situation, how to maintain my life during the situation and to focus on what positive changes I how to come out of this. I chose to let go of my anger. I want to believe that he, the surgeon made a prudent decision based on what he felt was the best course even though he was mistaken

My partner and I had a large miscommunication that lead to almost breaking up. I am still shaken by this and unsure how the future will unfold for us. This was the second miscommunication, causing me to wonder if the battle scars can be repaired or if they ever were. I am relieved that we manage to think clearly and communicate effectively again. I am worried though that we can sustain this type of consciousness for the unforeseeable future and all its challenges and rewards.

I had a baby May 4, 2013 and I am grateful. I wanted so much to have another child and feel blessed to have been given the chance once again. Yet, there is a huge part of me that is upset and resentful towards my ex for leaving us shortly after the birth. Felling abandoned, but blessed all at the same time is conflicting. My son's continue to inspire me and teach me that love knows no boundaries and has no conditions. They are truly light and love. THAT makes me feel complete and whole and knowing my love for them is above all else. We will be O.K.

One of the most wonderful days of my life was March 15, 2014. I married m best friend

Today I buried my Mother. Her body now rests in a beautiful, sunny field a quarter mile from where she was born. My sister told me that before everyone arrived at the cemetery this morning, there were dozens of butterflies floating around her grave...

Gosh, which one? I bought an investment house. We didn't know everything we needed to know at the time. We made some mistakes. Time will tell if it was a good idea or not. For now I can backseat it, after putting in many hours upfront - when I had the time. We were on strike for 5 weeks. I really did not want to go back. I got scared looking at the list of the students in my classes. I just wanted to be retired. Now after 4 days back, I am having so much fun with my students! It's humbling to realize that how I thought I would feel is not how I have ended up feeling in practice. I can do this work and enjoy it. With both experiences - mostly relieved -but also humbled and grateful.

I got divorced and fires within 2 weeks. Neither was too much of a surprise--the job because I deserved it, and the divorce because she made it clear for a long time it was coming. I am now incredibly resentful towards my ex wife and terrified about my new practice. I have 1 client, and he's pro bono. I have 2 kids to feed.

A significant experience that has happened in the past year is that we spent a lot of summer traveling the world. We went to France, both north and south, North Carolina with family and to Germany and Austria. This was time that we spent together without the everyday distractions. It has brought us closer together. Overall though, this was a significant year for us. Significant events happened with each of the children: the oldest became a father, the next got married and bought a house, the third had a terrible breakup but now owns her own house, the little one got a career job and is financially independent. We are proud empty nesters with a vibrant life ahead of us.

The amount of significant experiences that have happened in the past year is overwhelming. I began a new on campus job during senior year of college, and took on some big responsibilities. I had the opportunity to take some of the most incredible classes with brilliant professors who pushed me, supported me, and helped me grow in my thinking so much. I felt my role on my ultimate frisbee team shift as I owned the status of senior, and all that meant on and off the field. I applied for many jobs for after graduation which forced me to think deeply about how I truly wanted to spend my time in the (what seemed like) immanent abyss. I graduated from university (with a job), I took action in the face of an anti-semetic incident, I returned to my gymnastics camp and took on increasing responsibility through running educational clinics for visiting coaches, I worked on my relationship with my parents, and I adventured across the country and spent a month living, learning, creating, and pushing myself in a warm, supportive, and loving Jewish environment. I allowed myself to be vulnerable in ways I never had before, and the people around me saw me in ways that I do not see myself, although I am slowly learning to. The incredible love, care, attention, and intention I experienced during that month, and the pieces that remain in photographs and phone calls has had a huge impact on my life. On my emotional connection to myself and others, on decision about my work life, and on my connection to Judaism and my family. The effects are innumerable and they make me grateful, relieved, resentful, inspired, and so so so much more, which in itself is a beautiful thing. This has been a year of change, of growth, of transition, of owning new roles, of connecting to people in new ways, and of seeing my own interactions in a fresh way. Mostly I feel amazed and overwhelmed. This year feels big, whatever that means.

Went on great American road trip. Grateful to have a happy, healthy family and a solid vehicle. Love this country and it's treasures. Love the treasures that are my spouse, kids, and parents. I really am living the dream.

I think of the good, big, milestone events when I reflect on a year as this question prompts. I bought a house. I started a new job. I started making real money. I paid off a huge chunk of my student loans. All of these things make me feel more secure in my life, more settled, more adult. I am grateful for my successes and my luck. These things also make me tired, though. A house is a lot of work. Smart money management is a lot of work. Maintaining a healthy, loving relationship with my husband as we divide these responsibilities is a lot of work. In some ways, being just out of college where the only thing you cared about is where you were going on Friday night was a lot easier.

This year, we traveled to San Francisco and Portland. Visiting Portland had a profound effect on me, on all of us, I think. Randi and I, for the first time in many, many years, actually considered what it would be like to move away from Connecticut and to this new and different place. It made me excited and nervous, wondering if might ever happen, what would happen if we did move to the West Coast, and what our family (her parents, my mother) would think/do without us as close as we are now. The trip inspired me to think ahead to a time when we might actually move away from Connecticut, to think that Connecticut might not always be our/my home, that there's so much else beyond our little corner of this vast world. I'm curious to see if I'm as excited about the prospect about moving to Portland a year from now.

So many significant experiences from a new leadership opportunity at Dashbid to purchasing a new home to sending my first child to college. For all these things I am greatful, hopeful, inspired, and fearful. And for all these things I should thank God and my family.

I decided to become independent. Both artistically, creating my own theater company and mounting my first independent show, and from a relationship. In both cases, I found I had lost my sense of identity. I was doing things because that was what was expected of me. I didn't even know what I wanted anymore, except I knew I wasn't fulfilled. I am still finding my identity now. This process will probably always be. It is painful for the moment, as my world shifts drastically.

The most significant experience of the past year happened shortly after 10q ended. It feels like so long ago. Only a year?! My husband was going to have surgery, and be there for only a few days. I was prepared: mentally ready, financial documents gathered, every minute of our 3 year-old daughter's time covered by various friends and family. Then 3-4 days in the hospital became 1 1/2 weeks. My husband became demanding and verbally abusive on the pain meds. I felt I was over working our families with babysitter requests. And then, relief: my husband came home. For 26 hours. Another trip to the ER and 3 weeks later... I was exhausted. I had comforted a 3 year-old, my husband, was away from home 15 hours a day (between daycare, work, driving to see my husband). Stressed out didn't cover it. And then came the recovery at home. A year later, and he's still not working or helping much, despite a release to return to work. Resentment comes in waves. Relief comes in waves. Stress, depression, anxiety... happiness, joy. Every year seems like training to face a harder year; a year filled with harder challenges based on the same themes. Every year, I learn just how strong I am.

In the past year I lost my mother to cancer. We had been estranged for over five years and due to anger, fear, and stubbornness I waited a day too long to go home. She was past the point mentally of recognizing me. She passed the next day surrounded by my father, sister, and myself. I've spent the last twelve months rebuilding my ties with my family and that wouldn't have happened if my Mom was still alive. But I would be lying if I said I don't have any regrets at not having a chance to say goodbye.

My sons Bar mitzvah. It was inspiring and I am grateful. Not only did he learn much of the Torah reading himself, but I did a reading myself with my father havin the Aliyah!

Wow. Where do I begin? I got married in April, then got pregnant in May. And we're moving across the country to start our family within the next month. It's been a big year. While the wedding ceremony was a huge deal, the pregnancy seems to be the most significant experience... ever. I've been profoundly impacted. My self-care has increased and deepened, my interests have shifted (I'm obsessed with pregnancy and childbirth), and I became reinspired by yoga. Amazing! I'm extremely grateful. I love it. I don't feel resentful about it, surprisingly... though I am terrified at moments. I hope to successfully pull off a Warrior Woman Home Birth. And I hope I'm a good mama. Wish me luck. <3

Finally accepting and acting in the fact that I want to be a teacher. I don't know the exact time but God has put a lot of signs and encouragements out there for me. I feel relieved and at peace in the decision. I know it will continue to be a journey but I am excited to see what the next year holds.

I finally told my employer that I want to find a new job. This was one of the scarier things I've done - I'm the main breadwinner in our house (with two kids) and if I cannot find another job, we'll be in major trouble. While it's been stressful being in this in-between stage, I'm grateful for the support I've received. And I'm so relieved to be able to feel honest again.

I completed my first 100 mile bike ride. It made my feel strong, that I could accomplish more than I imagined, and it's something I can do again. I am grateful for my own strength and inspired by the people who have multiple sclerosis for whom I rode.

One year ago I sent my oldest child off to college. It has been very hard. I was so happy for him when I took him off to school. I am excited for his future. What has been the most difficult for me is that I am now doubting myself as a parent. I love that child so deeply and I have felt that I did not develop a strong enough relationship with him as he was growing up because he really distanced himself from me and from our family his entire Freshman year. I could tell he was struggling late in the year and yet he did not reach out to us for support or just to confide. He came home over the summer and I feel like he was very angry at first. As the summer went on we became comfortable with our relationship and our relationship really was great at the end. We could be honest and just talk. Now he is gone again and it is so painful to know that he doesn't need me. I am happy for him. I am grateful that he has this opportunity. I worry about his future at school. I worry for our relationship. I know that I need to give him space yet be tenacious. He needs to know that I love him and that he is not an island separate from his family. He needs to know that I respect his independence and that I will not judge him. I need to work really hard on the "not judge" part.

I began to take my higher needs seriously. I started working on the writing project I've been putting off for years, and investing in coaching and classes to make it sparkle. I started showing up for yoga regularly, consistently. My life has been transformed, and I am humbled and grateful.

I got my 200 hour yoga teacher certification. It has effectively changed my relationship to my life. Even when I fall off my practice for a while, I feel I have deeply grounded tools to come back to to help. I also have so much more compassion for myself and others. I have come to appreciate the hard work I do and have found connection to my strength. I don't get as caught up in the things I don't do and give my self a lot more slack. I trust my self more and have much less self doubt.

Moved to Florida to be with my family. Little resentful as I left my job and placed all my belongings into storage and most felt I shouldn't leave Virginia

I moved back to Texas after 20 years away. I didn't want to come. And I don't like it. These are not "my" people. There are some, but it is hard to filter through the Jesus believers, Republicans and non-Feminists. I'm from "Austin" which has value here, but I'd rather harken back to New York and I still miss Atlanta. I don't feel safe here. And it's ugly. And so so flat.

ELDP was significant / amazing / incredible. I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in it and meet the war fighters at the tip of the spear. ELDP almost directly resulted in my promotion into a new and amazing position. Obviously another significant (on a much more huge scale) experience was the birth of my son Ben. We are the luckiest family in the world that he was born healthy and is a super happy and easy going child. He brings joy to our entire family and only sometimes is a pain in the ass :)

I changed jobs and moved closer to family. Relieved and happy

I took a 2-week long meditation retreat for the first time this year. I was terrified about spending 2 weeks dealing with my own internal monologue, worries about self-worth, my friends, work, and marriage. The first few days were terrible, and I took a considerable amount of anti-anxiety medication to get through those early days. But I did get through them, and the retreat turned out to be one of the top experiences of my life. I came back with such a profound sense of gratitude and connection with others - even people I don't know. Slowly, over time, that gratitude and connection has faded, maybe not to baseline, but I know it is something I can tap into again, and I look forward to doing another one soon.

I bought my first condo. I am feeling a little overwhelmed, uncertain, a little excited. And like a grown up!

In January, after two previous hospitalizations for depression, my 15 year old daughter took a large overdose of potentially fatal medication. She was airlifted to an intensive care unit in another city. I drove to be with her on the middle of the night. The man who was my boyfriend drove with me. We got out of the car in the parking garage. It was bitterly cold, and the dampness of the parking garage at 3 am made it even colder, the kind of cold that you feel in your bone marrow. I went through the empty hospital to her room. She was unconscious. I lay down on the couch in her room and wept. The two nurses spoke in whispers around her bed. She vomited. They cleaned her up and changed her gown, in the same matter of fact way I take care of my elderly, debilitated patients. I watched them and was grateful, & I cried some more. One dark haired nurse brought me a blanket, and asked if there was anything they could do for me. No, I said. I want to be grateful for this experience, for the times I've found my precious daughter covered in blood, her eyes glassy and far away. It's horribly, awfully difficult. But I am grateful, in the bitter way people who grow in spite of themselves are grateful. I'm grateful she's alive, and that we have another chance with her. I'm grateful there have been other people I've met on this journey, who have given me love and support when I really didn't deserve it. And I'm hopeful that somewhere is the other side of this, that we'll make it over and say, "Remember that? It was really awful. " Mostly, I want to be able to live through this, and see her grow into an adult, and know I did the best we could. It isn't over. Looking back and saying we survived is still a dream.

I sold my house and nearly all my belongings, a lifetime's collection of things I had found useful or beautiful. I moved into an RV with my Great Dane puppy. How I feel about this event changes almost daily, but the underlying current is one of relief. I'm pretty sure I will be able to more directly and effectively access the healing I need from this place.

Having a falling out with my housemate...Caused great stress to my life...I am grateful that we met and found a house together to get me on my feet moving to the bay area with my twin boys///It was good for a year but I find her to be a bitch now and am glad to be moving on to greener pastures

Graduation was a fairly significant experience in a number of ways. As a mom or parent, watching your child graduate from high school is monumental and brings up a roller coaster of emotions, ranging from pride and excitement to tears and anguish and even an exploration of my own mortality. As a CSD staff member, it was significant, particularly because it was our first one and seemed like such a culmination of hard work that began when my kids were so young and was really like nothing I had expected. How did it affect me? I'd say in the end I grew from all of it as an experience. It seemed so big and overwhelming at the time, but in the months that have passed, it really looks like another milestone that has come and gone on, as one more step forward in watching my kids grow up.

My son has gone from being homeless, mentally ill and addicted to drugs to living in a sober living community in Arizona. This year he started using heroin, and I just about gave up hope. I'm still worried, but he went to two excellent rehab/dual diagnosis programs (in California and in Tennessee) and now for the first time I actually have real hope that isn't based on wishes and dreams, it's based on the reality of his situation. I am profoundly grateful.

Diagnosed with Emphysema five years ago. Recent Pulmonary Exam by specialist in a first class hospital reveals I do not have, and never had emphysema. Medical Incompetence.Initially very angry and depressed by treatment and original diagnosis I am relieved, and very grateful.Depression lifted.

I started studying with Partners in Torah. I was jaded at first, the same way I had reacted in middle school and high school in Israel when Tanakh was part of our curriculum and it all seemed so archaic and irrelevant and I didn't make any effort at all. But this time, within a few weeks and a few parashot, I had become so fascinated, not only with the plot line and characters, but with individual words and phrases. I realized that the Torah is endless, that every word can send me off into another line of inquiry and study, which makes my own mind feel limitless. Then I was assigned a new partner and started exploring prayer and emuna, which now gives me a window onto the mystical and personal aspects of Judaism, also absent from my upbringing and education. I am grateful that I finally appreciate Jewish learning and have an opportunity to grow beyond my cynical, limited consideration of God and Judaism.

I was having some issues at work and growing resentful and angry. I finally was able to sit down with my supervisors and explain where I was coming from and we were able to come to an understanding . I was able to stop resisting their their programs and let go of my anger. It was a positive experience I have been much more effective at work and I am able to leave work at work.

Early in 2014 I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Ultimately, it made me allow those who love me to care for me, but not without maintaining a sense of independence and dignity. Surprisingly, the chemo therapy wasn't as terrible as I imgained it would be— but do not be fooled, as an independent and ambitious person, it was not a desirable experience. Having completed chemo, I feel more connected to those who have gone through or are going through chemo and would love to be a sounding board for those about to or going through ABVD chemo regiments.

After leaving the hospital, my confidence was sapped. For a long time I lowered my standards for my abilities out of fear that I would wind up back in the hospital. What is significant is that I have built myself back up by continually proving to myself that I can work harder and be better than the selves I have been. Although I am thankful that I got the opportunity to amaze myself by rising up, I'm hurt that I had to get to that point to begin with. Nobody wants to think of their success in the framework of a colossal failure.

I moved from my hometown and my daughter went away to college.

I graduated with my bachelor's degree while married and with 3 kids. WHAT?!?! I never dreamed I could achieve that. It seemed like such a high goal to shoot for. I am grateful to have had the support I needed to do it. I also realized that I could be an inspiration to other Latina women and that gives me the courage to keep going. I applied and got accepted into a grad school program. I am grateful to be able to represent!

My nephew was diagnosed with Leukaemia. I was and am upset, angry and terrified, but at the same time I have been inspired by his courage and overwhelmed by the support for him from friends, family and the wider community. It's made me re-evaluate my perspective on life and think about everything differently. Good things have come from this but we'd all rather it hadn't happened and we're all hoping like hell for a good outcome.

This year, I got married! This was an incredible experience not only because I got to make a lifelong commitment to my love, but it brought together our families in such a great way. We are a mixed couple (I am white Jewish and he is Trinidadian Christian) and we expected some drama between the families. This drama never came! This was a DIY wedding, and all of our family and friends came together to make it happen. It was unbelievable. Additionally, everyone loved our ceremony (that had a very Jewish feel) and got to know each other throughout the night. People came from all over the country and even Germany for this day. We both have never been so happy.

The most significant event was my divorce. After years of a loveless marriage without physical or emotional intimacy, I gave up trying and tried instead to find peace on my own. So I found new friends, enjoyed the busiest summer of my life. I'm grateful for these people in my life, for the chance to grow beyond the constraints and try to rid myself of resentments. It's hard though. I run into my ex-wife at temple twice a week, and although the divorce was simple, the after effects are not. At least for me. So I struggle with trying to figure out with tshuvah means in the context of trying to forgive and be forgiven. I know this is something I will have to do whether she joins me or not. For my own healing. I've written a new song, determined to renew my creativity and move forward to a better more fulfilling life.

Describe a significant experience that has happened in the past year. How did it affect you? Are you grateful? Relieved? Resentful? Inspired? When you died I lost something about the sea. I used to stand staring out over the water my feet nearly numbed even in August. I used to feel an umbilical tug, a sudden sense that all else had been just a conceit, a joke I didn’t realize I was telling because there was no way I was ever anything more than tethered to this horizon as simply as a sacrificial animal is allowed a rope’s length of freedom from the stake. It was a good feeling. I felt attuned to my own condition. I liked to look down as the waves pulled away under my feet and I liked the subtle way the wet sand blanched around me like blood leaving the body. We used to find that we could understand each other here. The day you died I was very far away and when I could stand I went outside and stood at the sea. But I couldn’t feel you. And either in came or out went the tide.

My son left for college. We were so close, now he is just GONE!? Rarely even texts me, treating me the way he used to treat his biological father. Don't get me wrong, there had been what I like to think is a natural aggregation of little annoyances, irritating the CRAP out of one another. Arguments happened more often the last school year, definitions of respect were tested to the brink. I know he has found the closeness we once shared with a bunch of great dorm guys. He will find himself there. Learning what he WANTS to learn. Earning the degree that I never did. We keep bees as a hobby. When you work a hive, there is a point where so many individual voices are buzzing their own sounds individually in circles around your head, all other noise is drowned out. Sometimes it is very zenlike. A cacophony of emotions in this empty nest ranging from proud to lonely. I would appreciate some zen in the coming year.

Two groups of girlfriends have turned their backs on me with little to no explanation. It's always my fault. Even if I apologize, it's my fault. I can't move past it. I just want to be alone and stay alone and not trust another person.

I moved from my town of 42 years to the heart of a big city, Denver. I am inspired, liberated, and excited

I got to go to New York for the NMUN conference. I was alone in committee, but I still managed to contribute to our draft report segment and even get up in front of everyone and talk. It has taught me that facing my fears is worth every penny and I had the time of my life.

One significant event was the protracted experience of Cayla's injury and then subsequent track season. The main effect on me personally was the extent to which I was emotionally invested in not only her success, but the whole ordeal of her recovery, healing and work to get better. Though she did all of the work, I felt invested in it way more than I perhaps realized. It wasn't until after her amazing Kingco 2 mile that I emotionally let go of all the angst and worry and was truly able to celebrate her success with the one person in this entire world that could completely relate - my wife. Honestly, when I think about the well of happiness that we as parents shared that evening, contrasted with the complete devastation 6 months earlier, the one common theme between these two extremes was that we both as parents loved Cayla so much. I think there's a beauty in the purity of shared happiness as well as despair as they both draw from the same spring.

I had a baby! I'm grateful and completely overwhelmed. I've been trying and waiting for this for quite some time, and motherhood is more intense than I expected. The birth process was crazy and amazing, and knowing that my body built and is sustaining this human is mind-blowing. It's very easy for me to get wrapped up in stress about things like how to get my baby to nap better; I hope I can focus on appreciating the beautiful things that happen instead of worrying about the challenging things all the time.

My husband interviewed across the US and ended up taking the new job. I left my job, my family and sold our home. I was doing okay just adjusting and found out I was pregnant shortly after. I am so happy and excoted to be having our baby! We have tried and not been successful but I'm also sad because I'm away from our famiky and our comfort. We are now debating about moving back home. My husband is not to happy with the neq position and I'm homesick. I'm.not resentful about the move but I'm more relieved my husband and I are on the same page. This move and pregnancy has brought us closer more than ever, and that i am extremely grateful for.

A good friend moved overseas a few months ago. It was emotional to see him leave Michigan. I relived some painful moments of despair and overwhelming sadness again. He was there to talk to, calming me when I felt I was loosing my faith and life. He helped me stay focused and stable. Yes, I am grateful for knowing this individual. Him leaving has shown me how involved he was in my healing and focus to getting back on my feet. I am still sad that he has moved away but I know he is enjoying his life. He is growing in rich experiences and I feel challenged to do the same; I am going back to college to get my master degree in Public Administration and training my first intern. I feel like I am growing professionally and academically.

I'm struggling to answer this question and it's only the first one. I signed up for 10Q this evening, after a long discussion with my spouse about my commute home and my day at work. Leaving work today I felt grateful and thanked G-d aloud for my family, for my job, for coworkers like Alexis and Jacey to whom I can talk. On my drive home, I thought about the coming holiday and my thankfulness of being able to take days off work to go to shul with my husband. I thought about asking to be written in the book of life for another year...and then I remembered that Sharon died this year and I began to cry. I cried the big, ugly cry that turned into heaving, gasping-for-air, pull- over-the-car cry. I rolled up my windows, kept Joe Stevens' acoustic folk playing loudly and sobbed in my car, parked on the side of the road. Yet, when I came home this evening, signed up for 10Q and saw the first question, I immediately thought of work. And then I thought, "Jo, you're thinking about work because you were just talking about work. But, is it the experience you want to write about?" And so I shut down my computer and didn't write. Throughout the evening I thought about the significant experiences I've had. I thought about getting a job and ending unemployment. I thought about quitting drinking. I thought about losing Sharon to cancer. I thought about getting married. All things that happened this year. Later, looking in the mirror, I thought about giving up dyeing my hair blonde- and what that meant for my first step in reclaiming my self, my body, and my body image. And then I came to write. See, under this confusion about what to write about is a misunderstanding of the question. When I'm asked to "Describe a significant experience that has happened in the past year..." I read..."Describe the most significant experience that has happened to you in the past year" and "Describe the event that most people would think is significant" and "Describe the event that you'll want to read about in a year and other people will be most interested in reading now"... The interpretation of the question goes on and on. And, in reflection, leads me to realize that the significant thing that happened this year was not a single experience but, rather, a year-long process. This year I began the process of not only having feelings, but listening to them and interpreting what might be underneath them. I began the process of examining my thoughts and the voices (the "shoulds" and "coulds" and "whys") that lie behind them. This year I began to understand how my thoughts and feelings play out in how I act- with my self, in my relationships, and in the world. And then I began to work on honesty and boundary-setting. I have not been perfect this year. But, my significant experience in learning to listen to and respect my thoughts and feelings, as well as reflecting upon my behaviors, has led me to many wonderful endings. Now, I stay sober. When I am tired, hungry, lonely, anxious, depressed, scared, sad, angry, happy, bored....I do not pick up a drink. I don't even buy the bottle. It's taken a while to get to this point and it's difficult still, but I don't. Now, I give myself a break. I can set boundaries around work to limit the projects I take on and the hours I stay at the office. I said "No" to adjunct teaching this fall 2014 for the first time in 3 years. The money wasn't worth the stress. I've cancelled dates when I was tired and needed alone-time. I've told my partner when I need to go out. I've limited the number of days I can vacation at my family's home. I make time for swimming and walking. I often go to bed early. Because of my experience this year, I am pondering my next steps. Instead of blindly following the "I have to get a PhD because it's the only 'dream' I've ever had and I have to achieve and be the best" next step, I'm slowing down to think about it. Yes, this sometimes makes me feel lost and wonder if I'm flailing in my career. Yet, it also makes me feel proud of myself. If I apply for PhD programs it's going to be because I *want* to. Not because I think I have to - to please my family, prove my worth, or otherwise. Most days I would not describe my reaction to my experience this year as relief. Some days I am relieved to have feelings. In moments, especially when I'm anxious or if my partner and I are mis-communicating, I feel relieved that I usually have skills to step back, understand what's going on, and articulate it. But mostly, I find my experience to be a ride. I may be jammed in rush-hour traffic, cruising down a country lane, flying through a roller-coaster loop-de-loop, or progressively relaxing and attuning my senses as the passenger on a motorcycle; whatever the case, I'm moving somehow and going somewhere. There may not be an end to this experience of feeling, thinking and doing- I expect there isn't- but there's security in knowing that it's happening, that I'm driving, and that I have the skills I need to do so.

I took my firstborn to college. I was very proud of her and how hard she had worked toward that day. I was overwhelmed with sadness that she wasn't in our home. I missed all the things we shared and wished for more time. 18 years can go by like a New York minute. I'm thankful for technology to keep in touch. And ultimately excited for all the new adventures and discoveries she will have.

My professional life took a 180 when I voluntarily quit my 9 to 5 to pursue the arts full time and be my own boss. I am inspired, grateful and very proud of myself for doing something I had thought about for a long time. It made me realize that I can do whatever I set my mind to, and that my life is ticking by - I'm not waiting for anyone or anything to do what I want! :)

The answer is twofold, both parts connected. (a) I took the leap, in a total act of faith and lack of preparedness, into a full-time private practice.... and failed to thrive. I knew this was the risk coming into the year when the last writing contract ended at the end of November 2013, but things looked so promising then that, had I been able to sustain that benchmark, I would have been fine. But the cyclical ebb and flow nature of the field meant that a small roster shrunk abysmally over the spring and hit rough drought by the end of summer. And while it's slowly starting to rebuild now, ten months into the experiment, it's still not to self-sustaining level yet, and I'm going back into contract tech writing. (b) I accepted a lot of financial aid this summer from friends, one in particular who made me at least two, if not a secret third, offer of aid. No expectations, no strings attached, just... help. I could not have gotten through this summer without that support (this friend, my mum's, a couple of others), but I struggled like hell with admitting I needed it. As a part of that struggle I touched a lot of old anger and hurt about a failed marriage, and admitting that the one source of help I *did* want was never going to be there for me... but that the friends who were there, who did see my struggle, and who made their resources available to me, are more precious than just about anything I have ever been graced to touch before. It has humbled and terrified and confused me. But mostly, it has saved me, and sometimes there are no words for that.

I became a teacher. I am grateful and exhausted all at once. It is an emotional roller coaster every day. I am thankful for the opportunity and pushed to work harder than I ever have before. I still struggle with feeling appreciated and knowing whether this is the right path for me. I do find inspiration and feel that I am making a difference in the lives of young people. But the change is incremental and so much slower than I would have thought. Highschools are incredibly challenging and seem to struggle with introspective. But this is what I wanted and it's almost fluke that I am now living my goal for this year just when I though all hope was lost. Starting a new career has changed my life completely. It's made me think about education differently and how like any job, sometimes you struggle to find inspiration. Furthermore, sometimes I feel like an impostor, unable to rise to the occasion or shoulder the incredible bourdon. I am too genuine with students and this has yet to change. I didn't think I would care this much.

I am separated from my wife (and children at present). At a certain level I am relieved, but am likewise ashamed, and miss my kids. Likewise, I am somewhat hopeful that my life is to get more joyful and happier in coming months..

Joined a Protestant Christian American church to keep the little job I have with them. I felt very good about it. I thought Jesus may help me achieve goals. I discovered myself confronting the same reservations I've had with religion that I thought I had answered, and needed to find a way to accommodate that. I right now have decided to believe in God on Sunday, and the rest of the week to be a rational, reasoning person.

I moved to Virginia for the summer to nanny for a rockstar. It was fantastic! I am so grateful. I got to spend time in the countryside and have everything I needed within access. And I made lots of money. And I encountered new and surmountable challenges. It was rough in patches for sure. People are tricky. But I enjoyed myself a lot. And I enjoyed all the new people I met. And I got to spend so much time with myself. It turns out spending time with just me is awesome. And I got to let go of caring what I look like for two months. I got lady softness all over my tummy and I didn't give no fucks. And now I've lost some girth but I still have the softness and I love it. I don't check myself in the mirror so much anymore. And I got great experience and can charge more for my services now. The hard part was when they were inconsiderate of my time and wellbeing. All of the time. But whateves, I don't take it personally. I still lucked out.

We got a puppy. That seems trivial, but adding another member to the family was a pretty big decision. I feel like I'm supposed to learn, "oh, it will all work out," but actually, I think the planning and worrying I did helped prepare us for this big addition. I can imagine a scenario where having a puppy could really not work out, and I'm glad that I freaked everyone out beforehand so we went into it with out eyes open. He is wonderful and a great addition. He brings the family together and is a source of fun and love!

I found a musician who was playing cover music and I was able to help him and his band "The Jason Gisser Band play the Chance in Poughkeepsie NY . They played as an opening band and secondly as headliner band Sept 19 2014. It made me feel good. I am grateful he gave me a chance. Relieved it went well...Inspired for future gigs

My mom moved to Washington. Next my father is moving to Washington. They are moving there to be closer to my brother among other reasons. I am left here. I'm ok with it now, but I was sad for a while. I don't have the best relationship with my mom, and I feel that now I never will.

I was on my way to falling in love. Then I got dumped. It threw me for a loop for a while. I didn't know how to recover. I'm on my way back to having some self-confidence.

My father passed away one year ago (the day before rosh hashanah) and I have spent the past year adjusting to it. I am SAD he is no longer around but GRATEFUL for all the years I had him - he was a wonderful dad. I am RELIEVED that he is not suffering any longer (he had a long battle with cancer) and is in a better place. I am INSPIRED by his life of service and his gentle giving nature. I am STRENGTHENED by the way our family has come together to support each other in this time of grief.

I realized how much my friends and family mean to me, and therefore decided to move back to the Midwest, to St Paul. One month in this is proving to be the best decision made. Overall I am now happy and enjoying life, spending and investing time with people that mean so much to me, and learning and growing and rediscovering me.

I watched my elderly mother behave indifferently towards her grandchildren at their Bat Mitzvahs and finally realized that her incapacity for love is equal opportunity and not just something directed at me. I am grateful for that realization; it takes some of the edge off my pain.

The decisions to finish graduate school with a masters instead of a doctorate wa fairly impactful. The time to sit and learn some humbleness and to realize where I want my life to go felt selfish, but really it challenged me to think about god's intention for my life. I feel so blessed that I have the luxury to make big changes like that, and to really look to the future. I'm also hopeful because I feel that God carried me through the transition and showed me that sometimes he's walking a winding road too. Through all the stress and fear, I see that I'm right where I need to be.

After 3 consecutive miscarriages, we gave up and started down what we thought would be the long road to adopting a newborn. After our home study was completed, and through a random chain of fateful events, we held our 3-day-old son in our arms--less than two weeks after our paperwork was completed. He happens to be the most adorable, sweetest, and happiest baby on earth, too, as luck would have it. Nothing impacts a life more than a new baby, but nothing else could ever match the joy either. Our older daughter has given up having 100% of our attention, but even she admits that it's been well worth it. Grateful, relieved, resentful (of the crap I had to endure to get there), inspired? Yes.

We travelled in India, and the strongest impression was made by the Old Town and Ganges banks in Varanasi. It was an eye opener, I saw a part of an absolutely different world, almost like a parallel reality. I am very gratefull that I was given such an opportunity.

Realized that I do love Richard. I feel happy, inspired, sometimes jealous ... maybe more often than I'd like to admit. I'm grateful to have him in my life. He's been very good to me and has taught me a lot. I now listen to news radio and I feel more in touch with the world and what is going on. Thanks Richard !

Significant experience. Let me see there have been so many that it seems countless this year. Transforming my relationship with Dan from one of engagement to best friend. I feel so grateful for him every moment, our relationship and my capacity to love and grow within that space… I am grateful that we decided collectively that we could let each other grow apart but also with each others support. I am in Portland right now and he just returned from Montana… following his heart, and it is big and there is so much potential that i see and want to see come to fruition with all my heart. It is funny to see someone else’s happiness for them, understand it and visualize it when sometimes your own seems to vague. I am relieved in some sense because it felt like such a struggle sometimes to fit within a space that is forced … looking at farms and feeling so much that this wasn’t my life. There was no space or sense of grace within my heart there. I would also talk about peru but I am still in it. I am strung thin from the experience but there’s a deep feeling that I was there for a purpose both personally and professionally. There was heart ache, sadness, new love. I am not resentful for experiencing death but I am confused and processing. I am inspired, exhausted … unsure where all this will take me from the open doors at National Geographic … the platform, North Face… and most importantly with H. I want to hold his hand and kiss him and press stop… sit on the shore and loose the unrelevent ties to work and chaos that seems so unimportant in the face of everything that happened. I am also unclear where I want to be and New York is not it … but I want to be in a place that feeds my soul, with community and nature and a range of emotions that are inspiring. This is my truth now and I see that clearly when I am with him. But in the same breath I am responsible for my own happiness, my own health and everything that comes with that. Be grounded and find that place within myself before I can properly hold someone’s loving hand not as a crutch but as a companion. So that is my inspiration to find that peace within myself to complement all else.

I started a new job! I am grateful to still be able to work with kids at iMentor and inspired to be able to make a difference in urban public education in a different way than being a teacher. I feel bad that I couldn't teach longer though, I was just so burnt out. I'm a little resentful at the limited scope of the organization too, we only work with high-functioninig, high-attendance, successful NYC schools. What about the rest? At least there are still 3,000 low-income minority students benefiting from our program.

When the war in Gaza started I was very surprised to see the global anti-semetic sentiments. I could not believe that in this day and age (especially in the US and Europe) that hatred of the jews was so widespread and widely accepted. There aren't even that many jews in the world. There also seemed to be no difference in sentiment regarding israelis (who were engaged in the war) and all other jews. The holocaust wasn't so long ago and, for the first time in my life, I felt like it could happen again. I was astounded by the level of support for Hamas, who was indiscriminately launching rockets into Israel. I've never been very politically engaged regarding judaism or israel but suddenly I felt that I needed to be part of the discussion. I feel sad for the jewish people but hopeful that we will survive and thrive.

This year I experienced true humility - three job applications and three different levels of rejection. I also allowed myself to take a risk - leaving a job with all the right tangible and intangible benefits but one that I dreaded waking up for - and I took a leap to enter a position where I have no prior experience and where the pressures of performing and measures of success are clearly quantifiable. Leaving what feels like no margin for error, everything exposed and no where to hide. I'm grateful that I took the risk and landed where I am because I believe that I am exactly where I'm supposed to be, even when it's hard to remind myself of that sometimes. I'm scared of the unknown and that fear usually keeps me safe and snug (and stagnant) in my comfort zone. Now I have to prove myself doing a job that requires a specific skill set that I know I possess somewhere deep down but that will challenge me everyday to confront and overcome some deep-seeded insecurities that sound something like: "when will they realize that I'm not as good as they think I am?" And I'm also calmer, more centered and happier than I've been since I entered the field. I wake up wondering what the day will bring and with a nervous excitement that burns low and slow and steady.

This past weekend, I completed my first half ironman! I am so relieved it is over. I am glad to say that I accomplished the 70.3 miles but also so relieved to be done. Two workouts a day really puts a toll on your body, mind and relationships. It takes up a lot of time to train for a half ironman. I went through a range of emotions during my training from being excited to racing the event to hating the training that I had to put it. I had to deal with a lot of stress that I put on myself to complete the training and the event. Right before the event, I had a mini panic attack that I wouldn't be good enough, that I wouldn't finish and that I was going to fail. However, I prayed to God that I would have the strength and confidence in myself to know that I was good enough and could achieve my goal. I was able to relax and know that I would be taken care of. I probably won't do another half ironman very soon but it inspired me to know that I can achieve anything I put my mind to. I am so grateful that I have the ability to swim, bike and run. I know that so many people don't have this opportunity for one reason or another so I thank God that I could achieve my goal.

I entered into the fall season of my life. The signs of age crept in like a villain wreaking havoc on my body, the ever curious hot flash ( I thought I was going to spontaneously burst into flames), unexplained moodiness ( I am sure my family wouldn't have been surprised by spontaneous combustion) , insomnia,and night sweats. After correlating these symptoms I had a wide variety of emotions, fear, regret, relief, sadness and finally relief. I am grateful that I have passed the stage where I feel the need to prove myself. I can finally relax and begin my journey into old womanhood. I can start to act on my oddities without worrying who is looking. I can trade my too short skirts, cramping high heels, only get them zipped with a hanger tight jeans in for clothes that I can breathe in. I am resentful that my body has succumbed to gravity, resentful that I am tired even after 8 hours of being in bed. But most of all I am resentful of the time that I see ticking, ticking, ticking away. Minutes that should be spent floating down the Ganges, exploring the Amazon, hiking in the Andes instead of stuck behind a desk, scrubbing the toilet, attending inane meetings that mean nothing... I am relieved to know that many centuries of women have passed through this time and have found peace with themselves and their journeys. Relived to know that I am half way done..God willing... but most of all I am relieved when I make it to the bathroom on time. Inspired. Today saw bright amber leaves of the aspen glistening and waving good-bye, like the bright colors of youth and I waved back in awe.

Seven months ago, I learned that my wife was having an affair. She asked for a divorce, and I begged her to stay. She drank excessively, was emotionally absent, and verbally abusive. She lied to me and told me that she had ended the affair, but still wanted a divorce. I found multiple times that she was lying. However, I still desperately wanted her to change her mine and for us to remain married. Originally, I was very shocked and horrified. Now, I am relieved. I am grateful to be free of the reigns of her control. I am proud to have learned a very hard lesson, and I am ready to move forward with a life that is my own.

SIx months agoMy dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He had a successful surgery just three weeks later. Nevertheless, I witnessed him fighting to recover, in excruciating pain, and saw what end of life could possibly look like for him when his time comes to leave this earth. It was heart wrenching to witness and his mortality was screaming in my face. At 84 years old going on 85 he was an amazing warrior. We were all gripped with fear about whether he would survive the recovery process after he jumped the first hurdle of successfully making it through surgery, with a favorable report from his surgeon. He was and is a role model to campaign with full force for the life we are still blessed to live. His gratitude for his family's compassion is endless. Wonderful questions from this Q10. Am I relieved? Grateful? Inspired? All the above. His fortitude and gratitude for all the love his family and friends gave him during this incredibly difficult phase of his life will be a powerful and heart rending memory that will stay with me and warm my heart forever.

Unfortunately, my tale commences with several cliches. Life has never failed to intrigue or astonish. It has been quite difficult, especially for someone as juvenile and mature as myself. There is no doubt I can proclaim a litany of occurrences which would leave most people in awe, but there is one pivotal moment which I vividly recall in disgust and admiration. The exact date was April 20, 2014. In less than 24 hours, I would be embarking on a journey with the intent of serving others. Lugubriously, I did not have the opportunity to voyage to the pulchritudinous beaches of Dominican Republic. For my life's entirety, I was told to opt for those with less. Little did I know that I was amongst the most destitute of creatures. I had done a disservice to myself by serving others. In other words, I had ceased to care for my well-being at the satisfaction of my parents and friends. April 20 happened to be Easter Sunday. The holiest day of obligation in the Catholic Church. Before the church bells resonated throughout the neighborhood and the aroma of flowers satiated the atmosphere, I lay there. Still. Mute. An illicit sentiment overcame my spirit on such supposedly joyous day. As Emily Dickinson states, "It was not Frost, for on my Flesh I felt Siroccos – crawl – Nor Fire – for just my Marble feet Could keep a Chancel, cool – " The experience was all so familiar that I had acquired a deftness for welcoming it. Thereafter, a sense of joy was provoked every time it arrived. This was a signal suggesting an end. The next day, I found myself wrapped in the most sacred bandages, God's bandages. My mother lay by my side like Mary and Jesus. From that day on I began to tell myself that I am God. That YOU are God. That WE are God. But before we can be God I have to be God. Annette Vaillancourt once said, “Self-love diminishes no one. It blesses others.” I could not agree more.

So many significant events this past year... From trying to kill myself, to touching the western wall. I am overwhelmed with emotion by this mere thought. I found love in New York City, returned there many times. I made great friends, had incredible experiences with them, and got to feel what it is truly like to feel apart of something. I finally broke free of my depression, and found Judaism. I made pilgrimage to Israel. I'm finally happy. Grateful simply does not describe what I feel. I am saved.

My son & daughter's B'nai Mitzvah. It was the most beautiful day of my life and I am grateful to all who helped make it happen, inspired by my children's grace and poise and relieved that all went well.

The end of my mourning period for my mother. It served as a significant release from old messages and permitted me to become my own person at last.

I was fired after 6 months working. It started when a new member had some troubles to adapt herself to the team. I never liked the treatment of the boss with the "probie", i was the probie and i never felt happy that way, so when it started i preferred to avoid this kind of trouble this girl talking to her about all the things will happen. The boss felt my attitude as a traitor, but i am feeling good because i preferred to help a friend rather than leave her.

I lost my cousin to cancer. There was so much more that could have done to be with her, but I could not let go of my other duties as a mother and teacher. I think of what I lost when she left, and also what I gained. There is a depth beyond which I cannot see but can feel must be there. She was so strong through the end, she must have been in so much pain but still was not anyone but herself. Hospice said that we die as we live, and she did. Always the lady, true to herself and what she loved. I only wish I could have been there at the end, but I had taken advice from someone I shouldn't have. I should have listened to myself instead. What have I learned? Don't ever lose you sense of humor an trust yourself.

The most significant event of the year was a combination of graduating top of my class and completing my senior project. The stress and strain that went into getting to graduation and completing my project was unreal. The joy I felt delivering my toothbrushing education program in Rwanda was incredible. My family was proud of me, my school was proud of me, but most importantly, I was excited I could accomplish such a large dream. I strongly feel that without the educational push I received and my desire to be the best, nothing ever would've been possible. I'm thankful for the experiences that I had, relieved that the stressful fear is over and excited for whatever may come next.

I'm living in my newly renovated apartment again, the work 99.9% done. After I returned this summer from a long vacation for the first time since doing a major post-reno clean-out, I walked in and thought, "I really like this, this is really nice." Although I wish I had the money to finish everything all at once the way I'd like, little by little things are coming together. Slo-mo, of course, the way I always get things done. But what's the rush? In all likelihood, this will be my home for the rest of my life. Is that good? Not sure.

Well, there are 2 really: a) We determined that the choice of college for Evan was not in his best interest, worked to set up a plan B, and then, when they said yes, we did have Evan start at Salisbury University, and go on a leave of absence from Goucher. All in all, relatively, I think this was a pretty well executed transition. No way to know for sure that this was the right thing to do, but all considered, with the major being better developed as an option at Salisbury, our cost being 1/2, and with a real hope that the environment might be somewhat less distracting in a positive way, after what was really a surprise acceptance, Evan chose this, and we supported the choice...though he also got in to St. Mary's and to York College. And, then, b) my mother's health took a serious down turn. Not sure when exactly...but for near a year, I"ve been going over each Saturday & Sunday evening, spending on average near 5 hours away from the house each weekend evening with her, helping. Re (a)...I'm hopeful. This is uncharted ground Re (b)...doing this, I"m grateful to be able to do this, both from the point of view of having a supportive family, and also, the experience of helping my mother is surprisingly positive, and I feel I"m coincidentally learning some things, like maybe patience and related caring skills. Maybe very slight resentment (seeing the prompt for this question). But...not so much. And, when there's an unusual conflict....I am genuinely grateful for my mom to have a great helping team, and a good doctor.

I had a Detached Retina and it affected me greatly - with my loss of vision in my left eye. I am SO grateful that God restored my eyesight after surgery and also that I have so many friends that stepped up and helped me through this ordeal. I al so relieved that it is behind me and I am ready to tackle what is in store for me next! God is good!

Sale of Family property with subsequent disconnect and tension with siblings. Sadness

2 family deaths, a new job. Grieving yet invigorated by new job as it is a positive change of career direction.

My adult son who had been sick started feeling healthy enough to work again go out and start living. It was a relief and I feel grateful. I was extremely worried about him and felt helpless to stop his suffering. Meanwhile, a close childhood friend's 20 year old son just died and I feel devastated for her.

I was able to make a shift from tense and angry and irritable to relaxation and enjoyment. I feel like I somehow broke through a barrier that has kept me trapped for so many years. Color me grateful!

My brother Tony passed away. I feel inspired by it, he was incredibly brave, strong and a true hero. He has inspired me to work harder, love more and be better. He lived his life to serve others and he has inspired me to do more.

My father's suicide this year affected every second of every minute of every day of every week of every month this past year. Every single fiber inside of me shifted that day and continues so. I am grateful for the shift in perspective, for the flashlight in the darkness of my 28 years pushing down the thoughts that something may be wrong with my family, with our outlook. I am resentful that he left me. I am inspired to get the fuck over this someday.

A new granddaughter was born in April. It was a very difficult pregnancy for her mother, my younger daughter. I was absolutely exultant at this baby's birth. All those months of holding back my excitement, keeping my daughter's pregnancy secret as she asked me to, and dealing with her terrible anxieties made this joyous event even more joyous. I am still filled with happiness every single time I think about this little girl. And I am still amazed at how little I let my daughter's fears affect my own hopefulness.

Death of mother-in-law. Freed up time with husband but that is outweighed by guilt and sadness that is pervasive. learned many lessons. difficulty with feeling didnt do enough for her and now shes gone, yet she didnt want more. at end she wouldnt communicate. wish she had a better relationship with Michael. Nothing is worth all these feelings-- if you have a feeling or issue, deal with it while person is alive because theres no chance once theyre dead.

I got engaged. Sunday, September 7th, i mentioned in passing that i didn't like the color green. Stacy seemed both surprised and somewhat distressed, i kind of thought it was funny and then forgot about it. On the 9th of September, that Tuesday, Stacy sent me a text asking if I wanted to go out to dinner somewhere nice. We hadn't been anywhere in a while and Stacy almost never offers stuff like that so I was excited and said I'd love to. That night when she got home i suggested that we go on Thursday night, becasue i had kickboxing on Wednesday. She said she wanted to go on Wednesday, at first she tried to play the "but you've got school on Thursday," but I got home in plenty of time, when she still insisted on going on Wednesday I was getting kinda suspicious, it was funny more than anything else. She was in the kitchen and kinda dancing around and refusing to make eye contact. I was like, "What's wrong with Thursday?" And she replied, still not making eye contact and grinning stupidly that she had a dead line. I was like, "A deadline for what?" And she just danced around some more (literately, she was kinda hopping around like a little kid that had to pee) At this point i became suspicious that she was going to tell me that she was ready for me to ask her to marry her. I assumed at the time that Allie had given her a "deadline" to tell me by. I spent the day being anxious and excited by turns. Mostly excited. I got dressed up and headed down to pick her up from work and then we headed over to the restaurant (fogo de chao). The food was, as always, fantastic. And when we were about half way through the meal i asked, "So can you tell me about your deadline now?" She said yes and then pulled out a ring box. I was actually surprised I hadn't expected her to get me a ring. I'm so picky about jewelry. She asked if i wanted to travel through all of space and time with her and I said yes. She didn't get down on own knee, but i actually preferred it this way. She'd also asked the hostess to put us in an out of the way spot. The ring was pretty but much to delicate for me, plus the stone was green. Which is why she got so freaked out and why she had to do it on Wednesday b/c the deadline to return the ring was Friday, and she wanted me to have time to exchange it. I was really excited. She seemed to be excited as well. This is important b/c I had asked her two years earlier and she had /not/ been excited. She still a little wary. But i'm very pleased. The week afterward I kinda panicked a little, thinking i had to do all the wedding things right now! RIGHT NOW!! And it made me a little crazy. All i did was talk about the wedding at first. And that seemed to get on Stacy's nerves which made /me/ nervous that she really /wasn't/ ready. Which made me /more/ panicked. So it was a bit of a vicious cycle. I'm calmer now, and I've spent a little time in my head figuring out what i want out of all this. I want the wedding to be held in a beautiful place, I want ritual and I want that ritual to be intentional. So I want Brad to officiate, and I want to set time aside to talk about how we envision what being married means and what we want from it and each other. So i'm still excited and now i'm much calmer. But my excitement is a bit tempered by the fact that i know i can't overwhelm Stacy.

I became the lone full legal & custodial parent of my niece earlier this year. I am so thankful for the blessing she is. She challenges my thinking & motivates me to be better than I've ever been. I am proud to be working as hard as I can to create a calm, blessed & fruitful life for us both.

My mother attempted suicide, I believe it was more of a cry for help. She ran out of benefits and would have been kicked out if her apartment the following month. My wife's mother passed away in then beginning of this year so I didn't know how she would react in helping my mom (We both believe my mother did a stupid thing). Surprisingly she said we should bring her to live with us, I thought it a good idea too but I was worried about the conflicts it may cause. Now a few months later there are some issues. I believe my wife feels that my mom should act similar to hers (in a way). That she may have been unprepared or understand that my mom would be different from my wife's idea of a grandmother. I am grateful, resentful and relieved. My wife opened our home to my mother and my mother has been a great help. It upsets me that my mother attempted suicide, that she really spent her time on unemployment getting high ( she confessed to my wife and not me) and that she may be acting cold towards my family when I am not home ( my wife's objective view). I'm upset my wife's view point of a grandmother relays heavily on her mothers relationship with the kids. Her mother was no angel and did things that highly upset me. My wife feels that my mother should leave in a year. I believe we should help her develop good relationship skills with our kids that she didn't show me growing up, my wife already doesn't seem to want to. My wife doesn't want me to resent her if this doesn't work out. I feel I may if she lets a year go by without helping my mother to be someone better than she was before she came. What would have been the Point in helping her n the first place. Right now I'm torn.

The clear winner: My sister's ALS diagnosis. I am shocked, angry, frightened. I am flipping my life over to take care of her, which is something I never anticipated doing for anyone. Grateful that I am free to do so; horrified that I need to. No words.

Three come to mind but the question calls for one so...I will say the death of my cousin CDW and two friends BLCII (actually 11/13) and AL. I understand that death is a part of life but when it happens it puts you in another space. These deaths were untimely to me but of course "the maker" knows exactly when everyone's time is up. I was saddened by these deaths because each person had a special place in my heart. They were also people I'd known since my youth and from that perspective contributed to the woman I am today! I am grateful to have known Curtis, Mr. Clark, and Auntie L.

I recently had my first big success as a writer. Instead of making me happy, it made me realize how tenuous success feels. I felt as much confusion, anxiety, and the need to do more as I did joy or satisfaction. Probably more anxiety and confusion than joy. This success made me both want to work harder and achieve more and made me realize that my happiness in life might not come from my work, no matter what that work is. My family, my friends, the day-to-day moments of happiness--those are the things I think will make me feel the most successful, the most content. I still want to achieve great things as a writer--supporting myself and my family with my work and connecting with an engaged audience--but that may not be the be all end all after all.

The completion of the rental house renovations. What I should feel proud about is tarnished by the disgust of how much money I've spent. What should've been a fun side job has been all-encompassing and overwhelming with every weekend going towards it. Made worse by the commitment to rent it before it was even done, and the financial consequences of paying for the tenants temporary housing is since the work wasn't done on time. I'm left with a mix of conflicting emotions. Mostly relief that it's done. And while I've enjoyed the project and the contacts I've made, I question my judgement in being able to find another project that will allow me to do this again while also penciling out. That and how do I overcome the time pressures of pushing such a project forward with a day job that demands most of my attention? And then there's the fact that I'm not involved with or engaged with my family. What is this doing to my kids as their dad isn't around to take on my share of the parenting responsibilities. And is there a deeper avoidance issue that I'm running away from?

I met a man quite randomly in NYC last October and had a conversation with him about his dogs. He offered one of his dogs to me as he had stage 4 lung cancer and could not keep them all. I did eventually adopt one of his dogs and he is a little ray of sunshine everyday in my home. In the 4-6 wks before the man passed we spoke on the phone multiple times and I cherish those conversations and always will! My daughter said she didn't feel there was anything random about mtg, but that the mtg that meant to be, somehow.

I came to peace with my break-up with Meaghan. It took me leaving the comfort of the East Coast and the corporate world as well as the support of six amazing roommates but I was able to come to grips with how things ended. I am grateful for what we had and I have learned many lessons that I plan on carrying into future relationships. I am relieved I am no longer holding onto hope for a reconciliation and I do not feel any fear or resentment when I think about the day when we will inevitably run into each other again. Given that I joined JVC to intrigue/impress/infuriate/inspire her, and knowing how much of an impact my JV experience will have on my future - she was meant to be in my life but for only a passing moment. Coming to that realization this year has enabled me to be me again.

My last role was made redundant-at first I was shocked and it took over 4 months to find my new role, but it's turned out to be the best thing that could have happened. I've found my home!

Backpacking Ansel Adams Wilderness. It made me feel I could do more of this. I had not taken a backpacking trip of this magnitude in over a decade. Now at 65, I feel I can do even more. Grateful!

My mother passed away this past November, 19 months after she was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. I felt a sadness that I had no words to describe. And it scared me. Before I could truly grieve I had to take care of the business of making arrangements for her funeral, so I shifted into business mode and pushed my emotions aside. Keeping busy also allowed me to avoid the other things I was feeling. I was angry at her. Angry that she never got regular physicals. Angry that she ignored her symptoms and wrote them off as a consequence of getting older. I couldn't understand how such a smart woman, who cared so much for others, could neglect herself. I was pissed that she left me. I was ashamed that my anger at her so consumed me that I found it hard to cry. But as I sat down and began to write her eulogy, something changed. I remembered how strong she had always been for me, my sister and brother. How she faced every challenge head on and required the same from us. How she never allowed us to say what we couldn't do. I thought that, deep inside, she knew that something was wrong. My mother never showed fear. But this time I believe that she was afraid. She never said that, and I honestly don't know how I would have reacted if she had. I wanted to believe that everything would be okay. I stayed strong because she did. It was my mother who gave me my first journal and encouraged me to write. It was only fitting that I would write her eulogy in my current journal. So as I sat in her living room I closed my eyes, said a prayer, and began to write. In remembering I found release. I began to cry. And I forgave.

Mom had a major stroke and we feared whether she would survive and if she did, what would she be like, who would she be. I am received and thankful that she came through it well, but has short term memory issues. I am resentful that she can t remember simple thing that happened 30 to 60 minutes ago, but I am grateful that she remembered her grand daughter and great grandson perfectly. I am inspired by her strength to want to survive and rebound. She showed how personal will to live can overcome physician doubt and medical skepticism

I had the opportunity to organize a meeting at the White House for American Jewish community leaders during President Shimon Peres's visit as part of his farewell tour. The leaders and I met with Presidents Peres and Obama together in the Roosevelt Room in the White House. Being in the same room with the American and Israeli heads of state together was incredibly powerful, affirming and inspiring - for me and for the Jewish leaders there. We were all surprised at just how moving and impactful the experience was for each of us.

My husband retired. It has been harder on me and our routine has changed. I find myself busier and worried about money a bit. I am grateful because my husband has begun doing work that he has always dreamed of. I am relieved that he is no longer a police officer because the stress and politics kept smiles plastered on our faces, but no real joy or laughter. I am looking forward to more laughter, it has already begun. I am a bit resentful because the new situation adds more work for me, hopefully this is temporary. I am happy for him because I know how wonderful it is to follow your heart as far as a profession/vocation go. I am looking forward to each day. I am thankful.

We moved my mother-in-law to an assisted care facility and then to a communal living arrangement due to her increasingly debilitating Alzheimer's. More than anything I feel remorseful. Roslyn was always so dignified and meticulous about her appearance. As more of her slips away I grow concerned for my wife. Last year she lost her father and now she is facing the loss of her mother. I worry that perhaps we were selfish in placing her in a new environment and that maybe we don't visit often enough.Increasingly the recognition of our own increasing age and its limitations come to the fore.

Getting married. It has shown me that my life is only complete when it is shared with my beloved, and that nothing else really matters besides taking care of her and loving her.

I suppose I'd say that I've continued with my fellowship program, and found that I don't really want to practice this specialty when I finish. I feel sad about it, because I've taken so much free time and money to do this program, but I'm grateful to know that I've tried this and found that it's just not the right thing for me.

After 10 years, I changed jobs. I am relieved, I am lucky and I am grateful.

I was in a one-car accident at the end of last year. I lost control of my car on a freeway while driving home and totaled it. Amazingly, I was unhurt, as was my dog, and I was lucky enough to have had the accident not too far from some relatives, who quickly came to help me out. I was frightened beyond belief - when I finally drove a car again a little over a month later, I was terrified. But I pulled through, and came away very thankful for my relatives' help, not to mention how lucky I was.

The significant experience this year in my life is returning to college to complete a graduate degree. I am excited to be back in school and I'm inspired to grow and make changes.

Despite being well qualified, not selected for interviews on job applications. Made me feel old and over the hill. Resentful.

Although it doesn't sound particularly special or original my most significant experience would be getting my drivers license. It has affected me in a number of ways, the main being my full exposure to the horrors of rush hour traffic. Five days a week my alarm rings at five thirty in the morning and I stumble out the door twenty minutes later in a pointless attempt to avoid traffic on Route 24 headed towards Boston. David Foster Wallace says this is a good time to set aside anger in favor of thinking in a less self centered manner but as bus after bus cuts in front of me while I try to enter the HOV lane the task often proves too difficult. Aside from gaining the ability to sympathize with the day in day out commuters to Boston I've also gained a lot of personal freedom. The ability to drive to the Burger King a street away from me at any hour of the day has helped me understand why so many people choose the ease of fast food over an actual meal often forfeiting their own health. Getting my drivers licence sometimes feels like a curse but at the end of the day I'm happy since I can settle early in to the common life of spending half your life in traffic so I drive around with my friends for an hour or two on the weekend. Looking over this it sounds really ungrateful and whiny but I think it's kind of an interesting take so I'm just going to leave it.

Choosing to stay. While it is difficult to leave a relationship, it is sometimes harder to stay. I have been challenged to allow someone into my heart. So when it becomes frustrating or I become angry, I think being alone is better, less like a roller coaster. But as I listen to others talk about their relationships, I realize that nothing is perfect and it is a series of compromises. I have come to be at peace with my decision and grateful for my friend, my companion, my partner.

Over the summer, I joined this little program called, "Teach for America" and it proved to be one of the most difficult and taxing experiences of my life. I joined because I didn't have any plans after college and it seemed like a good enough thing to apply for (It's heroic work in underprivileged communities, what could be any better?) I didn't really have any idea what I was getting myself into. I half-assed my application and interviews and somehow, miraculously got accepted. I'm still not sure why I was accepted and why, but regardless, I ended up in the Mississippi delta in June of 2014, "training" to become a teacher. I put training in quotations because in large part, T4A doesn't train you to be a teacher. Instead, they give you the tools to be an inspired, naive, volunteer who will try his best in the classroom. They taught us small things about proper classroom management, giving concise instructions, and how to lesson plan, but there was exceedingly little on how to be a teacher, and the daily realities of instructing a classroom of students five days a week. Instead, we encouraged one another, cultivated our personalities, and danced together, guided by vague aphorisms and useless slogans, see: "reach higher!" "teaching is the hardest job you'll ever love!" and "better than the last day!" Then we'd "cut loose" with the song "fancy." This is not a program for the introspective or the thoughtful. It's for "team players" who always "keep their chin up" no matter how much you're "down in the dumps" and having a "bitter case of the Mondays." To top it off, I got very little sleep and worked all day long. I frequently dozed off in our pointless sessions, where we'd learn about the value of a "classroom vision." And the only times I felt awake, was during class, when I had to teach a class of 7th graders math (I graduated from CU Boulder with an English and Philosophy degree; I hadn't taken a math class since 11th grade in high school.) As things progressed, I started to get an idea for the challenges that lay before me: students who weren't interested, students who were behind -- one girl asked me how to divide in the middle of a lecture on ratio a unit rate -- the long hours, the amount of time necessary to write a decent lesson plan, and how taxing the job was emotionally and physically. I wanted to quit. At first. But after talking for some time and realizing just how fucked some of these students were in the delta, purely because of where they were born, I couldn't up and leave completely. It was too hard to just split. I felt guilt. I felt ashamed. I felt like my promise meant nothing to T4A and the Mississippi community that I had entered. (At least that's the narrative that I've told so many others in the program and the narrative that I've told myself. I repeated this story so many times that I'm not sure exactly what my reasons where. I can't deny that there were other factors. For instance, I had a new girlfriend at the time living in Cape Cod. The sound of living in Cape Cod for a few weeks and getting to be with her was a major factor. So much of a factor, I spun a web of bullshit around all of my intentions so I would never be "that guy," the guy who makes life decisions based upon a relationship. That fucking idiot -- I hadn't been laid in a very long time and she was sending me some nasty text messages.) So it was the fourth of July weekend. We got a three days off. In the span of that weekend, I cheated on my girlfriend with another girl at institute, I put in my emergency release at T4A (it's like quitting except you get to come back the next year), AND my girlfriend broke up with me -- not because of me cheating, by the way (I never told her about that) but for other reasons that I did not see coming at all: apparently she was unhappy. She showed no sign of it until the day she broke up with me. So there I was: I had just quit my first job out of college. My girlfriend had broke up with me. And it was a long break. I partied. Hard. Crazy. Non-stop drinking. So much that when I returned I felt like I had been away from the classroom for months. I crawled my way through the final two weeks of summer school. When all that was said and done, I had no idea what I was doing. I made another inexplicable decision: I decided to stay in Mississippi. I had already found a house with two T4A corps members and so we decided to move into the house. The plan was to move into the house, the day we left the T4A training grounds, the dorms of Delta State University. However, upon arriving, we discovered that the place was unlivable. It had been broken into multiple times, and the house had been stripped of EVERYTHING, literally everything. The stove, the fridge, the AC units, the furniture, everything that you'd need in a house. And since, the windows in Mississippi are built around having AC units, there were now three open windows in the house, leaving the place open season to robbers and bugs. I spent the next five days bouncing from house to house. And drinking all day, every day. When I wasn't drunk, I was asleep. When I wasn't asleep, I was drunk. It was a five day bender. I had just gotten off of the craziest summer of my life. That summer had come right after graduating from college, in which I had written an honors thesis. Things had been moving at a hundred miles an hour for seven months straight. I needed a break, from work, from stress, and from sobriety. That about sums it up, although I have glossed over several events in the summer and the events afterwards (including my poor decision to post about my struggle on Facebook where a few people were a bit lacking in empathy.) And here I am now, living in Greenwood, Mississippi, waiting tables, volunteering, and helping teach a creative writing class for an afterschool program. No matter where live goes after this, the summer with T4A will certainly have altered that trajectory significantly.

Ivy learned to walk! I know this doesn't seem like it should be so monumental...but I was so worried. I am grateful and relieved that she finally got there. Her gross motor delay really stressed me out - I don't even think I realized how stressed it made me until the stress was lifted! I still worry about her - she's my baby after all! - but so much less than I did just a few months ago.

This past summer, I attended an overnight summer camp called Camp Ramah. It is a Jewish camp that I've been attending for the past 8 years, and at age 15, this was my last summer as a camper. However, this summer proved to be the most incredible 4 weeks of my life. The Tzevet (staff) taught me so much about how we view the world and opened my eyes to so many possibilities. It's your choice whether you want to see a better world. YOU have to build that better world. You don't have a limited time to do this because time is just a construct. It has no meaning. The world is how you choose to perceive it; perception IS reality and if you want to see a better reality, it's your job to fix it, to go out into the world and smile, smile at every person as if one of those people will cure cancer because YOU turned their bad day around. If you want to see a better tomorrow, then go be that change. However, there are only three things that really made my experience this summer, just three words. RUACH, KAVANNAH, ACHDUT: Spirit, Direction, Unity. Spirit-you have to put everything you've got into what you do and never stop for anything because you get out what you put in and no matter how tired you think you are, no matter how much you don't want to go to school that one day or get up for work after not sleeping the night before, just remember: There is ALWAYS something left in the tank. Direction- you must always have intention in everything you do. Unity- this summer as an edah (age group) of 87 of us along with our 17 Tzevet members, we stood as ONE, we grew as ONE, we changed the world as ONE because 1+1=1 and we, as one world, should stand with unity. Everyone wants to see a better world so why not change it together? Why do we have to hate on others? Why do we have to judge each other? The answer is we don't. We are ALL equal aspects of HaShem. I promised myself I would take my experience this summer and bring it home. Well this is me bringing it home to you, the world; the world that needs changing, the world that needs YOU. So, go build that better tomorrow because tomorrow starts today. With all the love in the world, Just another person trying to make it in this world

Two answers here: I started grad school while parenting twin toddlers, and my father-in-law passed away. Grad school has been wonderfully validating of my decision to change careers at this point in my life. It has also been exhausting trying to keep up with the work load when I'm in class all day and parenting until 8:00 every night. Somehow I've made it all work so far. Can't wait to read this next year when the chaotic parts of my current life will be but a memory. I think it will also create feelings of nostalgia since I am grateful and happy to be where I am. I also wonder if I will have a job in my new field one year from now. My father-in-law passing lead to an outpouring of emotions I didn't realize I had for him. I never felt accepted by my in-laws for reasons both big and small. However, I sobbed for days when he passed and still have moments when grief catches me unaware.

A significant experience that has happened in the past year... I have to say the overall fact of just entering into my mid-twenties, knowing what I want in life, as well as who I want in my life. Learning to be a bit selfish at times. Letting go of my past, one step at a time. Forgiving others, but more so myself. I feel much more perseverant. Always reminding myself, that others are human too.

My mom went into a senior living home. It is a huge relief and yet, quite sad and depressing.

After delaying seeing a neurologist for 14 years I learned my MS has been mostly in remission. He said "if we'd put you on those drugs back then we would be patting ourselves on the back crediting them for how benign it's been when in fact you're just very lucky" The MRIs were a very emotional, stressful experience and as I lay there it occurred to me that maybe the choices I'd been making for my health were a similar placebo. Had a bagel and felt ok so slowly reintroduced gluten back into my life knowing that I can always stop again. Grateful and very relieved. Not that I can eat gluten though it's very tasty but that I no longer think about my MS every time I eat. Affected my family and me a lot.

I went to Thailand and it changed my outlook on life. It was the most peaceful and relaxing thing I have done in years. The people were great; kind, loving and generous even though they didn't have much materially. I went by myself and it was a little frightening but I did it anyway. It proved to me that I could reach out and try something that was unknown and that I could do it by myself. It show me that there is a big world out there and if I take my courage in my hand I can go to find it and experience it with joy.

My son woke me up before 7:00 a.m. on a Sunday, staggering into my bedroom. I was annoyed and told him to go back to sleep. I made room for him in my bed. He tossed, turned and moaned. I was trying to sleep but I felt his skin, cold and clammy. Apparently he told me that he fell out of bed and hit his head; he said he had a headache and then began vomiting. I googled his symptoms and asked if he was sensitive to light. Yes was his answer. WebMD said call 911. I called Kaiser and heard the recording for perhaps the 20th time telling me that if it's an emergency to go to the nearest hospital. Apparently it was so we did. While there, he was incredibly uncomfortable. The doctor was quite concerned and they decided to do a CAT scan. The last time we spent any significant amount of time in the ER he had appendicitis and they had be going into the room while they scanned his body. This time they had me wait in the ER by his bed. I started reading. It didn't occur to me that the code blue that started five minutes later was related to him. When they put his 6'3" body on the table he had a grand mal seizure. The two smaller nurses were not equipped to handle such a large seizing body so they called for back up. After reviewing his history the ER doc realized that I had brought him there several times for similar things. My son and I realized that what he had been calling bonitis (from Futurama) was really seizures. I spent three years taking care of my son's father before he died so I am used to going to the emergency room and having to deal with medical issues. I was very worried and had to keep talking myself out of crying in the ER, because I didn't want my son to see me upset. The medication they gave him caused him to have great anxiety so again, I worked at staying positive for him. I feel so lucky that chemically I don't get anxious or depressed the way that he does. I am grateful that we figured out what has been going on with him and that we were able to get rid of the anxiety by switching medications. I'm relieved that the medication has taken away the jerks / ticks he was having and that he does not appear to have side effects. Also, to combat the great anxiety, he is enrolled in a class dealing with it and he is in therapy. This is helpful for him because he has always had a certain level of anxiety so in the end, the pills are annoying, a bother and make him feel like an old person, but they have taken away the jerks he has had for many years and dealing with this is helping him deal with his anxious personality.

I turned 40 a little under a year ago and it wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. I acknowledge that parts of my life haven't turned out exactly as I thought that would have but nevertheless I have a lot to be grateful for in my life and I know that there have been many people that don't make it to their 40th birthdays so I'm happy I'm still above ground! I now look forward to making the second half of my life even better than the first half!

I've had several significant experiences that have happened in the past year, but the one I feel like has been most eye-opening and significant is one that initially comes with several less-than-happy feelings. I had just moved back from the Florida Keys, on a business venture that just didn't quite work out, and I met a girl in my hometown, and started hanging out with her pretty regularly. I had known of her, but had never spoken to her until moving back. She was gorgeous, dark-skinned, long dark hair, built well, athletic as could be. I had heard she was a bit of a floose before, but I figured hey, I wasn't exactly a saint in college, right? So we started talking, and it was fantastic... I was falling hard and fast; she was gorgeous, quirky, funny, got along well with my friends, and I felt like there was no pressure for physical anything, given we both were kind of "coming back" from a more promiscuous phase. We went to church regularly (the most I have ever consistently been to church since childhood, really), and everything seemed to be amazing. Sadly, it did not continue going so well. I noticed she would randomly "disappear" for a night; we usually talked every evening, if we didn't see each other, and sometimes she would just go out of contact. I actually didn't mind it, I thought it was just her wanting some personal time, but then I started to get suspicious when I would find out she had been in contact with some of my buddies, and was just not responding to me. Then, she would start inviting me to hang out with my friends, instead of vice versa; she would even call me and tell me she was already at their house, why don't I come and visit. I was starting to get fed up with this, and I had planned on speaking to her about it once we had a chance to be alone. Then, that night we were supposed to hang out with a group of my friends, and Samantha was late getting there, and so was my other friend, Ethan. I didn't think anything of it, but it turns out they were out to eat together, and had let everyone else know, but me... They had also stressed that I not find out. I was furious. Beyond furious. I was seeing red. I cannot remember the last time I was that angry. I got in my truck and left without saying a word to anyone but my friend, Joe, and drove to the only place I knew I could be alone and vent. I went to my best friends grave, who had died 7 years earlier in a car accident. I went there, fuming, unable to contain the amount of raw emotion I was feeling. I finally calmed down, even though I had texts from her like "Where'd you go" and after I didn't respond "Alright, then." I spent a few more days working through the utter amount of bullshit that arose from that, including going and confronting my so-called "friend." I had planned to go and beat him up, plain and simple. But when I got there, I realized it wasn't worth it. He wasn't worth it, and she wasn't worth it. I severed all contact with him, and a few days later told her "You need to figure yourself out, and let me know" and I haven't heard from her since. It turns out she was also having sex with her ex-boyfriend during all of that, and got pregnant right about the time everything happened. I haven't spoken a word to Ethan since, even though a few of my friends had invited me to places where he was. I just didn't want to deal with the anger/betrayal that I know would've come up if I were around him. A few months after that whole debacle, I have now moved to Vietnam for an incredible job opportunity, which thankfully separated me from having to deal with it anymore. Starting fresh, I suppose. I am resentful it happened, I can easily admit that. I was being so true, so honest about myself with this girl, and thought I was getting the same, only to be betrayed not only by her (multiple times, it turns out), but by one of my long-time friends as well. It hurt especially because I had envisioned myself staying at home and building that life, though I had always wanted to move abroad for a while. I am also relieved, because she could have waited to expose herself as unfaithful, after I was even more committed, and it would've been even worse. And finally, I am inspired; I enjoyed the connection I had being totally honest, without playing games and whatnot, so I will continue that once I start dating again. Yes, it exposes me to a more pain, I suppose, but it also opens up the doors for happiness. I'm sad it happened, and who it happened with, but in the end, I came out unscathed, educated, and confirmed in my own behaviors and beliefs.

The largest experience in my past year has been the health problems my father had to endure. He was always healthey as far back as I can remember but the past three years have been torture for him in terms of serious medical problems. The worst came this past year as he had to go into Mass General for open heart surgery. I remeber sitting in the hospital waiting room, stress eating my way through a pizza and cartoon of ice cream, waiting on news of his surgery. Once it was delcared the surgery was a success the real hardships began. My family had to spend Christmas without our father as he was in the step-down unit. Then once he was out of the step-down unit at the hospital my father had to go throuhg months of physical therapy and months of "taking it easy" which he found infuriating. During this time I remember feeling incredibly fustrated and angry. While I'm not sure who or what this anger and fustraion was dircted at whether it be God, Doctors, or some other force the cause was easy to see. I hated to see my father, the strongest masculine figure in my life, unable to do simple things like drive his car, but also larger things such as cry in front of me, for the first time. Howeve amidst my anger and fustration me and my father grew closer than ever. We bonded over a meal I would sneak him whether he be in the hospital or at home when my mother was out. Eventually we came to laugh at the some of the struggles he had had along the road with his illnesses. I can never fully reconcile with whatever reasoning there is for putting my dad, the best man I know,through the medical hell he went through, but in some small way I can appreciate it due to the deepening of the relationship between me and my father.

The formative love of my life appeared out of nowhere; I am still very much in love with him. . . and afraid. And that's all I have to say about that right now.

I ended a 18 month relationship. It made me sad that I lost this person and his family. It left a big emptiness in my heart. I am a little relieved and feel less stress and more hope for a balanced future. The relationship was not doing well and we fought more as the months went on. I felt we did not have common goals . He was quick to anger and said insulting things such as calling me names and insulting me, my friends and family. He could also be kind and was a good friend when he wasn't being hurtful. I am glad for the good times and happy t move on, I deserve better

I participated in an actual family intervention for the first (and hopefully only) time in my life. It was really stressful but seems to have succeeded. I was relieved afterward. And it has made me think about a lot of things.

Only a few months ago, I moved in with my mom. I'm seeing my selfishness very clearly in the way I choose to prioritize my time, but I also recognizing where I have matured since the last time I lived at home (primarily through responsibilities taken). I am humbled and appreciative for the opportunity (both to be close to her and to live rent-free) but constantly frustrated by my lack of outward love and graciousness toward this INCREDIBLY lovely woman. I live in perpetual guilt for my lack of presence for the past 5 years when my mom has been alone and feel duty to be around now...I fear that the next time we live close it will be for her bad health or old age.

Shamanic Dearmouring experience enabled me to get back into my body, experience unity, find Wren and evolve. Grateful and inspired.

I went to see my doctor about my knees and learned that i was burnt out resulting in me being off for 3 months of one of the nicest summers in years. There was certainly a feeling of judgement against myself but through one of the books I was asked to read I learned that I was depressed. I didn't want to believe it but sleeping for 8h every night for at least 3 weeks and having no headaches or GI symptoms showed me that work really was stressing me out. Strangely, this same scale did not indicate depression when I related it to my home environment. I am very grateful to be in a position that allows me to take the time to work on healing myself without the worry of how the bills will be paid. I am still plagued with some anxiety although previously I didn't have a real understanding of depression/anxiety and often utilize mindfulness meditation to ground me. It has given me the inspiration to recognize that I put my happiness before my status at work.To that end I am actively seeking employment in an environment that is supportive and allows me to work in alignment with who I am

Meeting my current boyfriend has been hugely significant for me. Even the fact that I can say I have a boyfriend feels huge. I feel like I have had so many romantic missteps over the course of my life and have thought many times that I was too damaged, weird, or just not going to meet someone who would last. The relationship is still very new and it's hard for me to even conceive that I might still be in this relationship at this time next year. I doubt it, have anxiety about it, don't want to get my hopes up. Yet at the same time feel hopeful, want to feel hopeful.

Sorority recruitment. It was insane, amazing, fun, awful, exhausting, uplifting, emotional, the bane of my existence, and absolutely inspiring all at the same time. Some of the girls that went through it on the other side were absolute duds and complete brick walls, but others had me laughing hysterically, telling me about their amazing lives, and I hoped with all my heart that they would choose us back to and mutually make it back to the next round of recruitment. I preferenced a girl and we both cried together - and seeing her smiling face the next day and now at lunch all the time is one of the best feelings ever. They're beautiful, smart, I LOVE THEM. Welcome home, babes, I hope you love my world as much I have and I hope we continue our journey together as true sisters. recruitment was also such a power trip - it was nice having so much say over who would be in our house and having the power to literally drop people from us to never come back.

Having a chronic back affected my way of life. In a way, I learnt how to move more gracefully and learn to slow down instead of go, go, go. It inspired me to do other things such as more walking since it`s difficult to sit. I cannot say that I am grateful, relieved or resentful or inspired. It`s another cycle of life.

After a decade of living in Los Angeles, where I was almost constantly lovelorn, I reconnected with my college sweetheart who lives in wine country above San Francisco. Following a rekindled sense of adventure, we moved-in together. Now I'm happy again, and I live in paradise.

This year, I served as Chair of the regional convention of the 12-step fellowship I'm a member of. The role was challenging, soul-wrenching & exhausting. I learned a lot about my ability to see something through when all I wanted to do was run from the commitment. I learned a great deal about motivating volunteers - some with kindness and love and others with starkness and conviction. I learned that even though I don't enjoy it, I am a good leader. And at the convention on Saturday night looking out at a sea of over 1000 recovering addicts, each of whose continuing life was a miracle, I got the total blessing of why I had worked so hard - because it is so vital to carry the message that I got at my first convention: that any addict can stop using, lose the desire to use, and find a new way to live. I am now so grateful to have had the opportunity to carry that message.

My husband said he was having suicidal thoughts, mainly because of family difficulties, especially communicating with me and our teenage daughter. I felt overwhelmed because I've been more worried about the tension he places on her and the effect his controlling attitudes have on her stress level. She's had anxiety attacks and has said things like "I can't take this anymore" when talking to him. In a way I am resentful because I feel as though he's giving me the responsibility of fixing the situation by making sure he's happy. I want him to go to counseling -- he hasn't. Meanwhile, I'm struggling to keep peace in the house.

Finding out that my SO was still cheating on me. It has destroyed me and I am trying to put my life back together without tearing our family apart. He does not ever want to talk about it nor will he tell me how things ended, if they even have fully ended. He becomes angry at me when I am upset about him looking at other females in front of me. I never feel like I am good enough for him and he does not care. The little things in life that make, relationships romantic, are just not there. It seems like he does not care. He keeps saying he is going to ask me to marry him, but he still hasn't nor has he shown any real sign that he is going to. It is as if he knows I am stuck in the situation and can not get out. And I honestly do not know if I do want to marry him.

All of the above. I entered the Landmark Self Expression and Leadership course, then went on to commit to the Introduction and Leadership Program. Nearly every day has been significant since then... in the midst of reeling and reflection, adaptation, questioning, reflection, coping & not coping. I keep finding out things about myself... sometimes that is grand, sometimes depressing or troubling. I know I will develop a fuller self expression and satisfaction with life and work - but I can't see the path right now.

This past year I finally became an attorney! My whole life I felt like I was preparing for that moment, and when it finally came, it felt a little disappointing. All that hard work paid off in a license to practice law, but with that license to practice law came so many rules, ethical obligations, potential for malpractice, that I felt and still do feel overwhelmed. I constantly feel like it could be taken away or that I'll get in trouble. In a way it was relieving; I finally did it! But in other ways, it felt like a burden. I feel like I will constantly be tied to this profession because of all the hard work that I had expended throughout the years. I think it feels more like chains because I'm not satisfied with my work. I hope in this next year that I will find ways to make it more satisfying.

At the very end of this year I quit all my jobs and moved to Australia for working holiday. I am so glad I did this - I feel rejuvenated, and so happy! I was getting so stuck in a rut at home. Degree but no career. At least 2 jobs at a time. Dating but not happy with anyone. I had gotten the visa back in February, but had decided to wait to leave. I just wish I hadn't waited. But I do not regret at all leaving - especially since I was so nervous before leaving and was actually getting ridiculously worried. Not enough to cancel the trip - but enough to stress myself out. This has been the best way for me to get out of my box. Meet new people. Go out more. Try to get more out of life.

My grandmother died on October 30, 2013. Her death devastated a part of me. And brought back a flood of heart achingly good childhood memories. Just the pain of loss. Knowing you will never get something back. Realizing how precious something was. In a way, her death gave me more zeal for life and family. To treasure everyone and live fully in the moment. To enjoy because one day it will be gone. Which I did with my grandmother. I enjoyed her immensely. And I miss her immensely. It is a bittersweet life lesson.

My dad almost died. He had a cardiac dissection followed by emergency open heart surgery. I felt so scared, so vulnerable, so unsure. And when I saw him in recovery, I felt so relieved. But I also realized that there was nothing left unsaid, no days that had gone by that I didn't appreciate spending with him... I don't know if or how the experience changed me, my relationship with my dad, or my view of the world, but I know that when I read the words: "... who shall live and who shall die..." during these High Holy Days, I will weep. And I'll be that much more grateful that my dad was inscribed for another year in the book of life and that I'm here to enjoy it with him.

Finally my partner and I moved in together, after 3ish years of waiting (on my part) and 6 years in total of being in a relationship. I feel incredibly relieved of the old routine and inspired by the new routine. I'm also trepidatious of every night together and noticing my sometimes surprising crabbiness. I'm wishing for more evenness in my moods, perhaps as much as always or a little more right now. I'm re-motivated to come up with a meditation and yoga home practice that works (aka I actually do it). That's my consistent goal in my head as we get set up. Hopeful...

My sister died this year and I felt physically ill during the first half of this year. The pain I felt was both physical and emotional and I felt guilty that I didn't recognize the signs of her decline earlier. She had Down Syndrome, was 56 years old, high functioning, and while still cognitively strong, she was displaying what I know now to be later stage physical manifestations of Alzheimers in DS. I wish I has been able to make those last few months more comfortable for her. She died as she lived, smart and aware enough to know that she couldn't do what she longed to or live her life as she desired, straddling both worlds. In the same way, she was aware of her decline more than most, and apologized for her accidents and difficulties, which broke my heart. I have not yet fully accepted or grieved this loss. And I'm not sure I know how to. I deeply mourned the loss of each of my parents, but I cannot seem to let go of her.

Almost a year ago, I applied for a job I really wanted just after finishing graduate school. After much preparation for an interview, I thought the inteview ect. went well, however, the company instituted a hiring freeze and the opportunity passed. However, since my manager foolishly or passisive agressively announced my depature prematurely (when contacted for a simple letter of recommendation), I experienced a hightened level of disspappointment with not recieving the job and an increased level of disgust with my work situation, manager, her poor skill set and lack of understanding regarding general professionalism and protocol. I was serverly aggravated and continue to experience a lack of interest at work and often fear I'll never manage to elevate myself professionally and finantially despite my education. I've held my current job six years. I appreciate being employed, and have always taken pride in my work, however the conflict of interest in policies, lack sound managerial leadership and decision making combined with my dissappointment in job searching have worn me down rather than ramped me up to find better employment. I am dissappointed in many things including the decisions which have kept me in the same dead end job for an extended period of time.

I proposed to my girlfriend. I'm looking forward to the wedding, but I'm also terrified of it. It seems stupid, but I really did believe in magic as a kid: that something special could happen to me, that I'd become the center of some kind of story, and yet I knew it would have to take place when I was younger. As a kid, marriage was the ultimate end of childhood, an irreversible symbol of adulthood, and -- as stupid as it sounds -- a sign that the adventures I believed in would never come. So while a part of me is looking forward to the wedding and to starting a new chapter in my life, there is a part of me that feels like I'm killing a part of myself, that getting married is like giving up on the hopes I had for myself as a kid. It's illogical -- if I want to be something, I could be whether or not I was married -- but I can't shake the fear.

Our dog died 2014. Or I should say one of our two dogs died. He had been with us since our first year moving back east in 2004. So much has happened then...some good. Some bad. But he was a part of it all and now like so many pages in our lives, he is a memory. And that saddens me. Like missing my Mom. I am grateful for my family yet wish my parents could share more in their growth. I am close to my inlaws but that's not my mom and dad. I never thought I would miss the little guy so much. But he really represented a big chapter in my life.

Birth of my son! Tremendously happy and joyous! Showing me parts of life and my marriage I never would have discovered before

I was asked to no longer be part of a media group because of negative Internet information that was accurate but insufficient. It made me feel angry, insecure, motivated, scared, and made me take action. It has financially hurt me and possibly turned my entire company upside down. It could have possibly allowed me to see certain things clearly and the forced changes could end up being positive. This event is another reminder of a constant battle I must face with the issue and at minimum I hope it gives me strength and confidence in myself and in the future.

I finished my BS Biology degree and graduated at last. I felt very relieved and grateful that I didn't extend. But somehow, I miss school.

I finally ended an unhealthy, long-term relationship that had been difficult to exit. I'm so glad I found the strength to leave and not look back. Because of this, I was able to find the person I now want to spend the rest of my life with, and I don't have all the plaguing doubts that I had about my life with the other person I had previously dated. It felt like the unhealthy relationship ate away a part of my soul and physical health that I am still, in many respects, trying to recover. Unfortunately, it was too difficult to see all the damage that had been done while I was still in the relationship, but now that I have distance, I can more clearly see the wounds that have been healed and the ones that still need work.

I got into dental school. I put nearly 100 notes into the temple wall via a website called aish, asking G*d to answer my prayer of getting in! I usually concluded my written prayer by saying that in return, I would serve G*d's people.

I got a full time job for the first time in several years. Hooray! I am so very, very grateful.

Connecting with my wife and feeling loved. I am grateful. Reaching 50 years with Type I Diabetes in good health, grateful. Loosing my sister- in-law Joel, my brother Gary and my wife's colleague, sad, and fortunate for what I have at the same time. I feel fortunate for my perspective (hard fought) and for what I have accomplished

I honestly haven't had anything super significant happen for me this year. But I'm not sad about it. In fact, I've liked having a quieter year. Still trying to navigate my dad dating someone (and her moving into my parents house!) but other than that, everything is good. Michael is still great and I've learned so much about him this past year and a half.

Being involved in the Mother Earth Gathering Womyn of All Nations this year was a life changing experience for me and fueled my passion for empowering and connecting women. It also taught me a lot about finding my own voice and recognizing and honouring my own sacredness. I am filled with love and gratitude and have been greatly inspired by this experience.

Beginning of the year, large redemption done by my client without need of money. He could have earn very decent return if the same it was hold for longer term as planned earlier. I have decided to not to work for this kind of clients, who does not follow our advise. And now I am thinking to charge fees for this kind of clients.

I recently did a kick starter project and had to switch producers. I am in deep gratitude that I ended up with the producer I did. I would have avoided him for various reasons but I opened my heart and mind and it was a good thing!

Answering this question made me realized how fortunate I am to have so many significant experiences this past year. I am truly grateful for the opportunities to grow, to learn new thing, to reflect, and to have faith and prayer back in my life. I am grateful to have created a personal Siddur that reflects my journey and the roots of my family and the jewish tradition and wisdom. My daughter has taught me so much this year. Parenthood is the most significant experience of my life. This year, however, was about the power of language. Her ability to say how she feels, to request what she wants, to sing and to invent new songs. It was a wonderful year.

Met my GF and it changed my life

I became President of our congregation. It is affecting me in that I am sometimes a shy person & sometimes too direct in my speech so I tend to offend people unknowingly, so I am trying to be more diplomatic and understanding of others feelings and ideas. I am grateful for this opportunity to try to improve myself and inspired by my fellow board members and for being able to give back to our congregation.

I took my son to disney world for the first time. When we got off of the plane in Miami I felt very overwhelmed. He on the other hand was cool as a cucumber. I felt so proud of him, and was able to relax. It was an amazing experience.

In the past year I got married, got my own TV show on the air, lost my wonderful mother-in-law, had my TV show canceled and had a beautiful baby girl. I've had so many ups and downs this year but it made me realize that though the downs will never stop coming, either will the ups. It makes me so sad to think my little girl will never meet her grandmother but she will know her. We will make sure of it. And I hope the memories that break our hearts now will be joyful in the future. I'm one year my little girl will be doing so much more than she is now (a few smiles and some cooing) and I can't wait. She isn't my everything because I had a full life before but she makes everything better. Good things and bad things. Ups and downs. But here's to a lot more ups this year than downs for both me and my husband.

This past year my mom moved to California to be closer to me and my family. I am extremely grateful and have been waiting for this for almost 10 years. However, I have to say I am impressed with myself that 12 years went by without having her near me and I survived :) In those 12 years, it gave Christine and I a chance to start our own family, try and figure out what does and does not work for us in parenting and keeping a house, and just build that independence. Granted...I think that all could have been done in the first 5 years or so! Anyway, we are now more than thrilled to have more time with my mom (the boys' Nana) and we look forward to making new memories the next decade and beyond.

I got my husband to go to couples therapy this year. I'm impressed with him for being willing to do this and to address the issues that we have been having. I think that we've learned a lot and that we've made progress. At the same time, there is a lot that we need to do, and it's overwhelming.

One day I finally knew what I had to do and started a journey of caring for myself. I began a relationship of love and depth with a very special man.

Hit by car on my bike.resentful

My partner's mother died. I was sad and relieved, both. While not grateful for her passing, I am very grateful for the life I got to share with her, especially over the past 15 years.

The significant experience that has happened in the past year was when I first read Johnny Tremain. It brought out my curiosity. It made me intrigued when I first read the two chapters. I felt sorry for the protagonist. I feel relieved that it didn't happen to me. I am thankful for the life I have.

Started with advanced life skills training with good mentor. Very grateful. Relieved that life can be so simple instead of complex. Inspired to live that way.

My sister died. She was 15 months younger than I and was my oldest friend. She was the primary care giver to our parents. They both passed away in the past two years, and after years of taking care of our parents, just as she was beginning to think about what life had in store for her, my sister died. Of course I feel sadness that she passed. I believe she is in heaven, but I miss her here. It would be an easy call to say I feel guilt that I didn't do more to help with our parents. My sister enjoyed her work with our parents. She was a good care giver, and, I believe found fulfillment in that role. None the less I could have done more. With my sister's death I have thought deeply, possibly for the first time, about my spiritual beliefs. After thinking about it I know there is a God and God is about love. My sister was a reflection of that love. God isn't in the loss of my sister. God didn't "take" her, she left at the end of her life as we all will do. God is in the life of my sister and all of the innumerable ways she left her mark on those around her.

Travel romance with Farid. At the time it helped me move past my hurt from Reid. He made me feel as though it were possible to feel love again. Now I wish I just left him in Agadir. I feel a little silly for pushing my intuition away for the sake of fantastical romance. But I'd probably do it again in a heartbeat ;)

I have been supportive to my significant other. Lived in another state. I am grateful for the experience to have lived in CA. I am eternally grateful, I became at peace in my beautiful surroundings. I am delighted to have returned to Tucson, and feel a renewed infatuation for a city, I have been reluctant to call home for 27 years. It was a separation, and inspired me to become content.

I've come to realize that my "over 10 yr relationship" is not winning; I do not think that she cares about MY future as I do about hers. She's angry and scolding all the time, and accuses ME of being the scolder and "not allowing her to talk". I've started using curse words to describe and express the situation, tho I don't curse ANYBODY..... I'm NOT accustomed to using curse words. LarryR

I made the decision to move interstate, even though it means I will probably lose my job. It was a brave decision about doing what is right for me; the not usual driver of my decision making, which has been my employment. It was a conscious decision to say I am worthy of improved health and wellbeing and a big step in that direction. It hasn't been easy. I still need to choose the shape of things and work how I am in the world when it's not all determined or influenced by my work. I want it to be determined and influenced by my heart, but I'm a stranger to that place. So I am on a new ship on a familiar ocean...but that ocean is becoming clearer in its strength, colour, content and sound. It's a an enthralling and exciting time.

My second son was born almost one year ago. He's magical, wondrous to be around, incredible to watch. He grounds me in a different way than my first son. I love them both deeply, but parenting a second child, when you trust yourself more, is different. I can read him so much more easily than I could with my first in the first year. I feel like we have our own special language that doesn't involve speaking. I feel totally blessed.

I began a post-abortion Bible study this past month. I am currently still in the class. This Bible study has unexpectedly opened me up spiritually. The Lord is making me more sensitive and tender spiritually, to Him, as well as, to His Word. I am enormously grateful to my Heavenly Father for the healing and restoration that He is doing in my spirit, soul, and body. I am absolutely relieved that He has forgiven me for murdering two of His precious children, and my own babies. I am inspired to write and speak about the great faithfulness and unwavering kindness of our loving Father. Great is Your faithfulness, to all generations, Lord!

I left my boyfriend of 3 years. It was the only real relationship I'd had, and I'm still 'processing' what went wrong and why. I've felt very resentful about the circumstances, and about the challenges posed by the lack of support (before and since the breakup). However, it also inspired me to get out and do more fun stuff with good friends, to make a more serious commitment to community, and to read lots of self-helpie books that I hope have made me wiser. I've also come to understand myself a bit better through this - including the stuff I don't much like. Humility is essential to wisdom.

Through prayer and meditation, I changed jobs... The process made me realize I have the courage and strength to change any part of my life, but I also need to gain in humility and be teachable for such changes. I'm very grateful.

I lost my son Mitchell to suicide on 6/15/14. There will never be a more significant experience. I am devastated. Lost. Sad. Changed. I will never be the same and I will miss him every day of my life. This cloud of grief is with me every day right now.

What is significant, exactly? I would say I had an ordinary year full of experiences both wonderful and sad. Relationship with my wife and kids are challenging and most fulfilling and that is what I think is important.

We had our house renovated; a truly terrible experience. The work started out positively with the builder, Scott being really engaged and into the job. Lucy found the whole process stressful; we should almost certainly have moved out while the work was on. After a while Scott drifted and was not engaged to the point where all the work stopped. Somehow this was all our fault. He currently has 9k of our money to fit windows and we've been waiting for a refund for about 6 months. We all feel sore and angry about this whole situation. Makes me very stressed. But hopefully will be sorted soon

This past year I have grown weary of my coworkers. I'm unhappy with the micro managing and constant negativity. This really hit me this summer as I passed up on work balance opportunities in order to maintain good relations with coworkers. At the end of summer I felt like even with all my effort in was not enough. I am tired of being made to feel guilty because I want to leave on time to go home to my kids and my husband. It's made me really want to strengthen old friendships with other adults who have families and children. I want to give less to a thankless team and put more into relationships that matter.

Patrick was fired from his job and it threw him into a state of profound shock and shame and grief and yet it has helped him really shift some of his actions, and way he thinks about his life and himself and he is ultimately taking more responsibility for his life. I could have behaved badly, and made him feel worse about himself or the situation and yet I have been moved and supportive and it has enabled me to feel more free to experience my own needs, concerns, desires and be more connected to him. I think and hope that it will be a good thing for us both and move us to better financial health and coupledom.In the midst of this he developed diabetes and lost weight and freaked and that too has helped (after making him a mess) to push himself to be healthier and more alive.

I started coming out as trans to my family. It was and is a relief, and a challenge, and somehow also anti-climactic! More than anything, it has reminded me that regardless of the person or the issue, one is always "coming out", in myriad different ways. It's exhausting. But I also recognise that while I have had issues, I haven't had anything which threatens my stability, and am old enough that if I lose people then I can carry on just fine.

Have become recognized as somewhat of an expert in an area I could never have predicted or imagined a couple of years ago. I am amazed at how easily that evolved, how appreciated my services have become, and how gratifying it is to be in this position. Also feel the weight and importance of doing well, as so many are trusting me to be able to help them.

In July, I met Harper at a sidewalk sale right outside my job. As I was going outside, I opened the door to see an adorable puppy siting in a crate at the veterinary hospital tent. It was love at first sight. I was never allowed to have a dog and even though my sister and I had been wearing on my mother, I knew we were going to be in trouble for bringing him home. It's been an adjustment for the entire family and Harper certainly has days that can be trying for us all but I know mom and dad love him just as much as I do now. I'm so grateful every time I look at him. He makes me smile and loves me unconditionally. Even after all the bad things that were done to him and people that were cruel to him, he's so happy and loving and he reminds me that I too can overcome anything.

My first time traveling to Europe. It changed my concept of history, and broadened my understanding of other cultures. It was an amazing experience and I'm very grateful that I had the opportunity.

my beloved mother died. the world, as i have known it is not and never will be the same. the relief that i feel is in releasing the heaviness of many people in and out of our home as they care for my mother, mental distractions, and always worrying about my mother. i continue to be pained by the loss of my mother and the way in which she died. unnecessary high doses of meds from hospice. by the time i realized that they were treating her as if she were imminently dying, it was too late. she could not come back. after years of focused care, her lief ended prematurely. prematurely. 92 years old. any age would have been too soon. i am no one's daughter, no one's little baby. i haven't a mother. how can this be? my gratitude is to my friends and family who raised enough money for me to bury my mother. i felt and feel held by my loving community

A significant experience is that my Pappap passed away in July of 2014. While we do miss him, the most surprising thing of all is how well Nana is doing with all this. It's like she's got a new lease on life. It's her time to shine. It makes me sad that she was so unhappy for so many years, at least in part because living with Pappap wasn't always pleasant. For now anyway (2 1/2 months after his death), she is doing great. She is in the process of selling her house and downsizing to a small apartment. I'm really happy for her.

Had 6th hip replacement surgery. I am grateful for being pain free. Process was long and painful. I appreciated all the support from my family and congregation including both rabbis.

I made a friend over tumblr, she lives in England loves Monty Python, is bisexual and just amazing! I wish we could talk more regularly and that I could really be there for her when she's feeling down. When I talk to her I feel really happy, she understands my fangirling and we can talk about Eric Idle in drag and she doesn't think it's weird!

I can't really recall a significant experience that has happened in the past year. Hmm... . A part of me thinks this is okay - life is going along on a relatively even keel. Another part of me has me wondering if I'm missing out on all that life has to offer. For many years I've had at least one epic-like yearly experience planned like a century ride, hiking x mountain, visiting a place. It's dawned on me just now that there is a significant event: my disc surgery. It affected me in many ways including not ever being able to do a headstand again. I always felt pretty good in yoga class when we were asked to do a headstand. This was something I was pretty good at. I have a much better appreciation for how depressing life can be for people with chronic pain. Most of all I'm reminded about the importance that good health brings to life and all the things one can experience when there are no health issues. Now that it's been over a year since my surgery and recovery, it's time to get ready for some new experiences. Hike some more mountains, run some 5Ks, visit a new place, get back on the bike (perhaps a mountain bike to avoid the distracted drivers), take that online dog behavior class. I'm inspired now - at this moment. Much better than how depressing it was to be limited in my movement. Time to start planning and experiencing all that life has to offer.

My son left me this year to go and live with his father in another country. I say "left," because that is how it felt: like we had been left behind, left-out, left alone. The months leading-up to his departure were filled with anxiety, sadness, desperation, pain. I wondered how I would go on, how his sisters would manage without him, how our home would fill the void of his absence. And then, he was gone. Almost four months have passed. And the most astounding thing has happened: I have been able to let go. Not just let-go in the shut-down, not think about it kind of way, but in the truest sense: I have come to realise that this is something that he needs, and that he deserves my support and respect for that. I have been able to step-out of myself and understand that this is about us but not about us. That the new relationship we are developing through this transition might be a better one, and one that I needed to allow.

This year I embarked on an inspirational trip that i will remember for my whole life. I went to Poland and Israel for 6 weeks. in Poland we visited the graves and the evil and horrendous death chambers that ruthlessly murdered my people in WWII. Although this experience was extremely overwhelming, it gave me a better insight into, who I am, who I want to be and what my purpose is in life. I think it is vital for every Jewish person to visit these places to fully understand and comprehend what we have been through and the importance of Jewish continuity. after Poland we finally landed in Israel. The place of Jewish dreams, hope and life. As soon as we landed the plane exploded with jot and excitement that filled everyone of the peoples soles as we stepped onto the land of milk and honey. my experience in Israel gave me insight into my life that no other experience has given to me before, I saw the holy Kotel for the first time. The first time I truly saw Hashem. I can not say enough thanks to anyone for this trip that shaped my life and personality forever.

My cat was very ill and almost died. We are very happy he is still alive and well. We were very surprised that we were so attached to our little guy, almost as if it is our own child.

Last year was to hear of the door ד dalet 5774 in which you had to go through a narrow place to reach the sweetness of the Lord. Even though I had high hopes and in my 10 Q questions last year, I had the most difficult year in which I went through the very narrowest of places to get through to the sweetness. My students were very difficult, I didn't have a lot of disciplinary strategies to deal with their lack of desire to learn. So I got put on a disciplinary plan by my principal. After following through and observing colleagues, and implementing new strategies for class management, I improved greatly. So this year after studying most of the summer, taking writing project training again, going to Rice University for GT training, and finishing up my training for teaching gifted, I got several new Vanguard classes! I have to say that I am much happier this year! Teachers are constantly coming up to me telling me how much happier I look this year. And if you see me in the hallways, I do have a very big smile on my face!

I turned 50 this year. It was an eye opening, inspiring, affirming of life path big deal. I usually don´t pay much mind to age in numbers, but without question, the 50 mark says something. Time to set up a colonscopy, for example. Based on currently available statistics, the odds of friends dying, me getting cáncer, things heading into deterioration mode grow from this point onwards. I arrived at this wátermark grateful. Grateful for all I have. Grateful for arriving here with excellent health. Grateful I still feel so vital. Grateful for the close relationships I have in my life that I have managed well to nuture. Grateful that all the hard stuff I have gone through hasn´t been in vain, that it has made me wiser. I celebrated this year by starting to do stuff I had always put off. I threw a party and invited all my friends, and playted them a concert of original songs. And I bribed them to clap with an excellen dessert. And it worked! I made a huge step out of a major constraint of limbo in my life by spending 6 months back in my home country and successfully created inroads to return there. I adopted a new adage to live by, which was that somewhere, deep inside me, I must know what I¨m dong. I have survived to 50 and feel great getting up most days. Despite what my life might appear in terms of lack in external measures (fortune, fame, marriage, multiple offspring, some semblance of stability) I feel exceeedingly rich on the inside. So, I must learn to trust the inner compass that is guiding me, often times despite myself. Armed with a confidence in the inner compass, this year has been one of major awakening to issues I didn´t feel equipped fully to open my eyes to. My aging parents and the eventual planning that has to be done for them. My own retirement and realistic steps to be taken there. Financial realities various. This has been a year of lifting the veil of magical thinking to confront what remains of my life and what would be realistic measures to deal with it and have things go as I most want them to. Knowing from my years, that the outcome will happen as it happens, despite any meticulous planning. And so yes, I have turned 50 with some trepidation, that some things aren´t in place that should be, and at this point I am equipped as well as I could be with the tolos to deal with them. I am not resentful in any way. I am grateful, that despite my many bone headed moves (almost always done with the best of intentions, amazingly), I still have good friends who have stuck with me, my daughter is growing up as well as I could hope, and I reach my 6th decade with my body well enough and my spirit intact.

Two weeks ago my younger sister, Kristine, killed herself. She shot herself and died. Kristine took her own life....you see? I am typing it every way to try to get used to it. the words look pretty awful, very stark. I guess I am going through the typical stages of grief...right now I am sad and still shocked. I will still get the urge to call her and then realize she is not here. I miss her.

I gave birth to my daughter. Every thought about Maggie is wrapped up in every emotion that exists. I am rapturous, grateful, scared, resentful, loved, loving, happy, sad, tired, ponderous, proud and blessed. Everyday she changes and when I am away from her, I miss her desperately, and when we are together, I worry that I am not "doing it right" - then she smiles at me and my world is complete.

My mother is now legally blind. Hearing this, I saw the next ten years of my life flash before my eyes. Driving her so many places. No more travel for her (no more weeks that she wasn't my problem for me.). That was May, it is now September, and at least 3 times a week I drive her to "the Club" for something. Fortunately, she often gets a ride home. How do I feel? really resentful that 18 months ago she refused the treatment that would keep her vision at the level it was because "it wouldn't make it better". She could drive then and do her own shopping and traveling. Now that she is blind she is having the treatment. Very resentful that it doesn't seem to occur to her that I still need to work so every45 minutes I take off to take her somewhere means 45 minutes tacked onto the end of my day. I do all this wondering what it would be like if I liked her? Soon I will have to deal with her getting rid of her car, I am waiting until the 6 months of treatment is over, she has some hope that she will be able to resume driving. Not me, but I figure she needs this time to come to grips with her new reality. And I do hurt for her, too. I can't imagine not being able to see. But mostly I am just angry that she chose not to have treatment that might have forestalled this, AND then chose to have it now.

i recognized my depression and my anxiety and i sought help. i finally started taking medication and within a few days, i wasn't crying all the time, i wasn't angry all the time, and i felt like myself. i gave up nursing my daughter so that i could be healthy and myself. i wish i hadn't waited so long to seek help.

My daughter graduated from high school and moved out. Well, actually she went on a trip around the world, but I know that she'll never come back to live here. That's hard for me to wrap my mind around it and I still don't know how to feel about it. I am sad and proud and sorry that I wasn't the mother I wish she'd had. So, I am feeling grateful and proud and sad.

Last September my husband, who'd been using a wheelchair for 12 years, was able to stop using it. We never expected that this would be possible and had planned our lives around the fact that he would be in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. I am amazed and grateful as this has changed so much of our daily life, at least for awhile. We 've been able to take a train trip to Arizona, hike in the Arizona desert, and go places that were difficult or even impossible in a wheelchair. He's able to drive a standard shift car again, which gives him great. I realize that his ability to walk may again be restricted, and I think I am prepared for this possibility, but for now I am simply enjoying being able to walk side by side with him.

A day long course that I delivered was just not good enough. I had not prepared or practiced adequately. In addition I allowed myself to be distracted by the course organisers in the bar the night before. Whilst the experience itself wasn't too awful the personal 'fallout' has left me determined to improve as a presenter and as a professional in every way that I can.

I am very grateful for the instruction I received from my spiritual director. I was able to make a confession, learn centering prdyr/meditation, start to learn to regard my life and, indeed, the Universe as a Whole in relation with one another. This has given me many opportunities for peace of mind, some if which I have actually taken. Some I have been able to share with others

I had a bad experience at work that has made me decide to retire. Initially I felt angry, depressed and totally overwhelmed by helplessness. I felt useless. Now I am able to reflect more rationally on my work experience and see the value in what I did. I am also able to see how I can use those skills and experience in other ways to work with others perhaps in my religious community or in the broader community.

My brother had a baby, though I am happy for them it hurts because my husband and I have been trying for 2 years and still are not pregnant

Miscarrying in the autumn. It hurt and isn't one of those events that has a set way to deal with it. It's so intensely private and I felt silly for being upset, while also feeling bad for not feeling worse. I'm more grateful for the child I have, more aware of how little control we have over these things and while the months in between have been horrible in a lot of ways I wouldn't undo it. The tiny, tiny baby inside me now would not exist had that not happened, and no matter what its fate I would not do anything that would change it. The extra months my son has had as an only child are precious too.

Within the last year, the struggles me and my husband have had with infertility have caused us both to question our purposes. At times, infertility has been a wedge between us and at other times it has brought us closer together. At the end of the day we know that we both want to be parents. This has become our purpose and our goal. Our most trying time was during the testing for my husband that changed everything. Through the negative testing, we found out our only chance of having children together would be through using donor sperm. I still worry that my husband will find it difficult to connect with our child. I am resentful that we have to go through this. I am angry at the person whose car hit my husband. He should get the opportunity to father children. We deserve the opportunity to have children naturally. I feel inspired by my husband- he keeps going even when its difficult. He is my inspiration. I realize now (a day after the death of my beloved uncle) the importance of family and being together. I want to surround myself with family and love.

I fell inlove, after a long time of being angry at love, with the wrong man - older guy, who was emotionally fucked up. My fault is that I fell for him before I got to know him and he really got me good. It wasn't until later that I realised he wasn't able to comit, that I knew things weren't working out. It's been 7 months and I'm still not totally over him. I'm grateful for this because I learned that I could love again, but I'm also sad because I was hoping that getting over him would be easier...

I turned 60 this year. And I realized that there were some things were put into a better perspective on what's actually important. That cleared my mind a great deal. Yes I'm very relieved and inspired.

Hace 3 años comencé un negocio con 2 amigos mas que eran mis socios y trabajaban para mi. Debido a situaciones de mal manejo administrativo y deficiencias en el área de Ventas, el negocio comenzó a ir mal. El dinero comenzó a ser un problema y cuando eso paso. Uno de mis socios y amigos, se fue y ya nunca regreso a trabajar. Sin avisar sin decir nada se marcho, han pasado ya casi 4 meses y no me ha llamado ni nada. Un mes después de su partida el otro trabajador también me dijo que ya no "podía" estar ahí pues necesitaba dinero. Le pedí que me ayudara a levantar el negocio pero dijo que necesitaba el dinero. El quedarme solo fue una dura pérdida para mi. Padezco ataques de ansiedad y a veces no me es muy fácil hacer algunas cosas, salir, etc. Después de pensar todo y darme unos días para asimilarlo, continue con la empresa yo solo. Y cuando tenía que hacer entregas que eso a veces se me complicaba pues simplemente comencé a hacerlo! Fue y es un gran cambio para mí! La partida de estos socios me ayudo a romper mis propios límites. Así que a pesar de creer que sus acciones fueron un abuso de confianza, en el fondo les agradezco porque me ayudaron a crecer

My ex-husband died very suddenly on July 13th. We still do not know the cause. It was very difficult because none of us had seen him recently, or had decent interactions with him in a long time. Being around his immediate family (siblings and father) was extremely difficult. They were very ugly to me (understandable) and to all the children (not understandable). What I am grateful for is the clarity that came with his departure, that there is no reason for us to tolerate the bullying from that family. There is some relief in that I can be really free to be fully present in my current relationship. Resentment came early, with the anger -- how could he do that to his children? Why would he leave so much unresolved with them? The nostalgia was at times overwhelming, but at a certain point I felt a tangible sense of being at peace with his spirit, and I was able to move forward. I am looking forward to releasing his ashes in some beautiful place in the mountains, and bringing some closure to this process for myself.

Got A New Job - Made me far far happier, a little bit richer (but not lots) and generally less whingey :)

I fell in love in the best possible way: unexpectedly. I don't have this man in my life as a partner any more, but the things he taught me- how to see something from another perspective, how to really enjoy the so-called "little things"- fundamentally changed me. I'm incredibly sad that he's not part of my everyday; I'm still hopeful that that will change.

This year I had my beautiful baby girl, it was the most magnificent and humbling experience of all my life. In what way this hasn't changed me, I can't even think of one thing! I am so grateful and so relieved to have this little girl! I love her more than I can express- I feel so lucky to have such an incredible and dedicated partner, and that we have this beautiful baby! I am over the moon! I am also amazed at my parents- my mother has completely cut me out of her life and my father can not find time to fit in my daughter with his theater going schedule. This has also humbled me completely. And my best friend also turned his back on me. At a time when I would have loved to have my family around. I learned that you have to create family and really nurture the relationships around you. This coming year I will work on creating the family that I never had, and work to really nurture these relationships.

I decided to leave my abusive husband this year. The time surrounding the decision-making and these subsequent five months have been packed with swirling emotions of every stripe. The one word that does come to mind is "peace". I am at peace with my decision, the house is peaceful since he has gone and my children and I are able to bask in this peace, and comfort ourselves with it and grow to be the people we could be and should be because of this peace.

This past year I made the move from Chicago to Los Angeles. Before this year, I had been living with my parents while taking fun projects all around the world for months at a time. This is the first time I have signed a lease and had a full time job (with benefits!), something my parents were super stoked on. My move has effected my entire life significantly. It has shown me just how much I value my family. I have even thought about living in Chicago again next year! I realized how much I took them for granted while living in my parents' home and within an hour of all of my siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles. I have also seen which friendships I value most and just how important relationships in general are to me. It is much more of an effort to figure out when you both can Facetime instead of just running into them randomly at a coffee shop. I have had to lean on God many times during times of loneliness, frustration, sadness, confusion, and of course the great times, too! Being in a new city with no friends who are of faith challenged me to depend on Him to help me find a church I love (which I have done after 5 months of searching!!) and to surround me with a great community of people who will challenge and support me. As for how this has effected me internally, I have learned a lot about my work ethic. I also have realized my priorities: health, fitness, relationships. There are things I thought were a priority, that I was wrong about, or have changed in the past couple of years, such as adventures and exploring and trying new things. This is a growing pain for me. I need to work on finding the balance between having a full time job and being responsible while also making time for fun and seeing all that a new city has to offer.

Dealing with a manipulative/abusive/messed up volunteer that was only full of criticism that was laced with misogyny. I know that I have not been running the gardens the way they needed, but I was filling the gap and doing the best with the time I had when no one else was stepping up to do the work. If I had walked away from what I was doing, there would have been no one doing the job. I attempted to deal with the volunteer, but did not do as well as I should. I do think I did the right thing by alerting the program head to his rantings. I should have listened to Jon about cutting off all contact completely, because I invited a second encounter that could have been avoided. I need to move on from it, but I seem to have trouble with that. Next time, don't volunteer for jobs you can't do well.

I had a flood in my house and had to move out for ten weeks. It helped me be more flexible and hopefully a little less attached. It also was a lesson in being even more alone since I was not in my home, my neighborhood , or with my dog. In repairing the house there were places I was very assertive and it worked well. Always wish I could do it more dispassionately. I would never choose to live a disconnected life like that. It felt so nice to be back home and have neighbors welcome me and feel like I belong. I am aware of how important community is to me and hope to continue to build on it. Still more work to do.

I'm glad I visited Dan and realized I want to be around in his life! - eat better so I can be a healthy presence when he has a family, like I am with Lea.

I worked abroad in Europe for 3 months. Before this I had traveled extensively, but had always dreamed of leaving my hometown on a more permanent basis. Right before I left, I was terrified. My cousin had just found out she was pregnant, my grandfather had recently passed away, and I wasn't sure I could put 5,000 miles between me and my family/ friends. Now at the end of my journey, I can't imagine going back. It will be nice to see familiar faces, but I've learned that I'm much more independent than I've ever given myself credit for. It's terrible to say that my friends and family held me back all those years because they've been nothing short of my biggest fans, but I've never felt more comfortable on my own and without them.

A coworker whom I've worked with for almost 4 years left. She was a real challenge to work with. But in working with her I realized some flaws that I have, personality/character flaws. Since realizing these flaws, I've pursued change for the better. I feel that, with God's help, I've made progress. There were times working with her that made me resentful because of the attacks she'd do underhandedly...she also received something I have been praying for a long, long time (not a promotion, a baby) that was really hard. In retrospect, I am grateful. I don't like seeing my flaws, it's like I know they are there however, don't like looking at them or having them magnified...but it was necessary for my growth in this area. I'm learning to try to take a step back, more than 99% of the time it has absolutely nothing to do with me (even if actions are directed my way, sometimes it is an internal issue with that person and they are taking it out on you in some way, sometimes they are just in their own world) I'm learning as uncomfortable as it makes me, to speak out. I was the type of person who took a lot, trying to blow things off but inside stuff was really piling up...then one day, the proverbial straw that broke the camels back even if it was as insignificant as a straw then I'd let them have it for everything I'd been holding on to then I'd feel guilty because it could've been a small thing that just set me off. She was the type of person with no filter, if she thought it - you heard about it. One day she just told me, "just tell me if I offend you." I'm thinking to myself, easy for you to say, you don't mind conflict! I literally would get palpatations, sweaty, etc over impending conflict. I also sought out, even though I didn't think I needed it at the time, healing prayer. Things came out that I wasn't expecting, other stuff I was holding on to. Time just goes on and it's still there like luggage. I received some closure and healing to old wounds. The hardest person to forgive has been myself. If God (knowing infinitely more than me) has forgiven me then I should be able to forgive myself. Hurting my parents when I was a teen, especially my mother because she died of cancer shortly thereafter I've been holding onto for well 20 years now, she died in 94. I was a stupid teenager going through my rebellion at the worst possible time. I wouldn't be surprised in my infertility problems were subconsciously me punishing myself in some weird way. At this point, it wouldn't surprise me. What I'm most grateful for is God knowing me so well through all this, being patient with me, putting up with me, and just being there. He is truly my Father in every way. (He is way much more than that...but to start with...) The way He loves me inspires me to change for the better, in that way I'm truly His child.

I recently split with my girlfriend of two and a half years. It's an experience that has affected me very deeply. We had planned for a long time to get married and have children together and were nearing that time. Then we started arguing...alot, they got worse and worse and eventually the relationship ended. Im still in love with her and I still hope that we can find a middle ground somewhere and work out our problems.

I got my first job. I love it. Its a sporting goods store. I get to talk to people all day about hunting and such. Its amazing. I love my job.

My dad died this last year in December. I miss him so much. There are so many times when I would call him to talk, or share something funny, or use him as a sounding board. After he passed, I was left spinning. I feel I was there to help with the details of his passing, and help with my family, but I had very little time to reflect and heal for myself. I guess I am a bit resentful about it, but mostly, I just miss my father.

I was able to celebrate the tenth anniversary of my successful kiddy transplant surgery. I am eternally grateful to God for bringing me my donor and for allowing me to live and enjoy life.

Have had a couple of health challenges this year. Initially threw me completely off balance since have been fortunate with health in the past. Eventually, accepted the inevitable that with aging comes deterioration in many realms. Ultimately, though, a sense of gratitude for past health and what remains.

I dated this boy, and I really thought this could be the one. Even though I am still rather young my own family was supportive and could see the potential and many great possibilities that this relationship had going for it. I found that I was falling in love, and by the time I had admitted it to myself it seemed like everyone else had already known long before I had. One day I had realized that I still wasn't ready to be in a relationship, the boy I was with was so supportive as to making me comfortable with problems I was having. I knew deep down that I wasn't ready but I have always had it in my mind that if I found the right person that it wouldn't matter if I was ready for a relationship or not, because it was meant to be and nothing could stop that...Obviously I decided I needed to be honest with myself and with him. I really did think about what I could be giving up, but I knew it wasn't fair to either of us and I really could use the time that we weren't together to grow closer and stronger in my walk with the Lord. And become ready for a relationship the best possible way, with the one who has ordained my love story long before I was even born. I ended it with the boy shortly after I came to this realization. I still wonder if I made the right choice when he asked me, "are you sure that you don't want me to wait?" I knew that in a way I wanted him deep down to fight for what we had even though in the end it would've ended the same way with even more problems. I also had this thought of selfishness, to throw away whatever confliction I was having and go on with him and tell him to wait, even though I had no idea how long it would take me to become ready. I knew I would never forgive myself if I did that to him, keeping him around even though I didn't know when I could be with him or let alone anyone else... So I told him it's not fair to him, he deserves so much more...to have a relationship with someone who knows they are ready to be in relationship and not have to have the baggage and problems that come along when you are doing something you know you are truly not ready to handle. It's been a little over 6 months since this all has happened and a lot has changed...Not only with us, but with everyone at our youth group as things do change as time goes on. I found that for the first 4 months I was still so very much in love with him. I wondered each and every day if I should've just done the selfish thing, kept him around...But if I had then I never would have experienced some of the hardest but most rewarding lessons in my walk if I had. Shortly after we had broken up I found out from my older "counselors" as you could call them that he was in just as much pain as I was, that I wasn't the only one experiencing this horrible feeling inside. But, then when I saw him next it was a picture that was sent to my phone privately on a social media app of him and a girl that he and I both knew I didn't like, giving a face as if to say deal with it. I felt so crushed and broken, I knew it was selfish to even think I had a right to feel that way, but it wasn't as if I didn't care about him, and so after talking a lot with my mom (she and I are extremely close) she said that I needed to talk to him and so I did and from what I was getting from his responses he was open to talking to me, so I decided that I would regret not telling him how I felt before he made any decision as to whether or not he was going to get into a relationship with the girl from the picture. I told him I still cared so much for him and I wish that he hadn't of sent that photo but that I could never hate him, and that I forgive him and I hope he forgives me for things that had happened in the relationship, but his responses was "she was there and you weren't." Needless to say I felt like I feel deeper into this hole of rejection, hurt, hate, and sadness. Overall I was confused because from what he told me when we were in the relationship he never would or has thought of her that way. I thought he was open to talking to me, but sadly I had to learn the hard way that sometimes things you love even though you set them free might not come back to you. But, that was just the beginning. After talking to older advisers, family, friends that I trusted I made the decision that life goes on, I can't keep spending the rest of my life in wallowing. So I went back to my original idea of I was going to spend the time that I wasn't with him (or anyone else) to focus on God, my relationship with him. Who he wants me to become, what he has for me, the things I need to work on to even consider being in a relationship with anyone. So I found some really great Christian mentor books that I applied to my life, I kept going to Church even though in the beginning I was still hurt because they were there, but then I realized that if I stopped going to church because they were there then the enemy (the devil) would keep trying to use that against me and it would make me resent them. Which I knew would hinder my walk with the Lord. People kept telling me that time heals and let me just say I was so against the thought of that, it had been four months since the breakup and I remember I was in the car with my Mom and we were just driving around because I started balling my eyes out I remember saying how hurt I was, why haven't I gotten over him already he's in a relationship and here I am (or was) pining over him when it's clear he's moved on. I have to admit a few times I had it in my mind that maybe the reason I wasn't moving on from him was because we were truly meant to be, but of course the enemy used that against me and it made me sink back into that mentality of rejection, hatred, sadness once again. I once again with the grace of God kept going to church, joined worship team, kept my grades up, and just kept going along. Eventually I found I was getting a bit impatient because I started to look at other boys and I kept waiting for God to literally deliver him on a platter and say "This is the one" it got to the point that I was centering my whole life, my thoughts, actions, time and energy on finding who it is that God has for me. I still struggle with that today but I have found that God has brought me such a long way, I really think that I might be at the point where I can date it just needs to be with a guy that has the true qualities that I know God has for the person I will end up with, that I need to take my time because I can't rush what God has for me, if anything I could be prolonging it. I know now that I need to pray to God not only about my husband (future) but for myself that I am ready for him. That when we finally do realize it was us all along that we will be more for each other than our wildest dreams or fantasies of who we were going to be with would be. I have to say that now that time has passed even though the first boy is still with that other girl, and our year anniversary would have been next month, I am still on worship team, I am actively apart of two children's ministry, I am on the high honor roll at my current high school. And I know that none of this was possible if I hadn't of had God by my side. At first I viewed this whole situation as bittersweet, bitter because I didn't end up staying with the guy that I really thought could be the one but sweet because I would have gotten to grow with Abba (father). Now, it's that I'm so grateful that I experienced this sooner rather than later. That I can now pass on my story to others who might be going through something similar. That I might have actually figured out some things about why I wasn't or still am not ready to date at the moment, what God really wants to do in my life. Things he has in my husband that I never would have even thought of, and things and qualities he has brought to light about me that definitely helps me to understand why he would have me with someone like that (not in the bad way good qualities). Overall, it's been a huge year I am now a sophomore in high school, and I am happy with what's happened at the time it was happening not so much, but God has brought me so far and for that I am so grateful to have him by my side. I know that I couldn't have done this alone but that's why he is still my first love, and even when I do get married some day I will always remember that he is and always will be my first love...My Abba, Father, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. Have a blessed day all.

My son was born just a little more than eight months ago. It seems so far away and like it was a just a day. To seem him grow and change every day is such a miracle and a blessing. There are many moments where I literally can't understand how at this time last year, I was still carrying him. His birth pales in comparison to his life, even as short as it has been. And yet, I think about that day, about the family that surrounded me, about the wonderful women who where the medical staff that helped bring him into the world, about my partner, and I am overwhelmed by the day. My brother, a big, burly, bald and bearded man in camo, wanted to be there. So when he heard I was in labor, he came right away. Then he sat outside the door, in the hallway, until my son was born. My son had some difficulty in the first hour, and so my husband went to be with him. It was my mom and my brother that stayed with me and talked me through my recovery. Those details will live with me forever, even though it was just a day.

I left my job! Holy moly this was incredible. Wrenching, faith-testing and faith-building, beautiful, filled with loving closure, a whole new set of eyes and perspective on my gifts and skills, a real, full sense of completion in a way I've never experienced before. It feels like it healed so many other leavings that were not necessarily done well. And then I began sharing my grief story - publicly. That was incredible, too - felt like I came out of hiding in a big way, within myself, to my current world. Found POWER, Power and Love in there. Beautiful courage. Grateful for all of it.

So much happened in just the first 5 months of 2014. First we lost our business. The neighboring unit next to the haunt caught fire in January and the amount of smoke and water Damage made it so we had to total the entire thing. It was sort of a blessing in disguise. My husband and I were so fed up with our business partner that we were ready to walk away from it all. And then the fire happened, so walk away we did. In the end it was still very upsetting, because we put so much blood sweat and tears into that place to just have it taken away from us with nothing to show. but we got a lot of experience, and we made a name for ourselves in the industry, people are looking to us for help, in the end I'm glad we had that adventure. That tragedy made it possible for the second thing to happen just a few months later, I found out I was pregnant with our first child. Initial reactions were fear and joy all at the same time. Here I am five months pregnant now, attending classes and prepping her nursery. Things really do happen for a reason.

My gateway into college classes. It made me realize how well I can give a presentation. I'm grateful that I completed it, and relieved that I got it over with.

I have struggled every day with not drinking and have been a burden on my wife, family, employer, and myself. I am pained at my selfishness. I did have a wedding that was amazing. It has affected me to my core, I am hoping that over the next 10 days, I can tap into the higher power and find a way to let God forgive me for all I have done.

I realize I've written this before.. but, I met my boyfriend and I'm really happy. We've been getting to know each other and have been enjoying a lot of time together. It didn't feel as profound and earth shattering as meeting my last boyfriend but we share a lot of interests and have an easygoing respect and goofy fun and attraction that feels like it could last a lifetime. There was an immediate sense of great ease when I met him. We even went on a cycling holiday together and when you can climb a Swiss mountain in the rain and still get along that is quite significant! I'm happy!

My baby boy (dog) Bently ate a sock and almost died this past week. It has made me unbelievably stronger and allowed me the insight to see what is really important in life. Money doesn't matter, things don't matter. Love of your family and friends is what's truly important. He's not out of the woods yet, but hopefully he can pull through.

I broke up with my fiancé a few weeks ago. I think I'm still sort of accepting what happened, I haven't fully accepted it yet. Overall I've been ok, not too depressed or mopy, but that's because it had been going downhill for sometime, and then her attitude towards me changed so dramatically. In the last few months, it seemed she was putting herself first, protecting herself and didn't give a shit about what I was going through. I don't know how I'm feeling, but it's equal measures freer, relaxed, angry and sad.

In the past year two significant things happened: 1) I got engaged to my now-fiancee. In January I organized all her family and mine to come up to the Kabbalat Shabbat service that we attend monthly and had a great celebration. It was an amazing time and I'm glad we decided to get married. The wedding planning has become a bit harrowing at times but knowing that I'll end up with her is helpful. 2) Later on in the year I was traveling in Israel during the 2014 Gaza conflict and witnessed rockets being fired above my head, technically at me. I never really felt unsafe as we had warning through sirens and the Iron Dome defense system is quite powerful, but it was weird nonetheless.

When I had mono, I had to step back and see what I was doing and reevaluate how I was making myself so sick. It helped me figure out what I want to do with my life.

My boyfriend and I broke up for a period of 4 days. It was a really hard thing to go through, the feeling of rejection from someone who you are vulnerable to but fortunately it really strengthened our relationship and rejuvenated our spirits and energy because the experience gave us clarity.

I took off my wedding ring, my dear husband Frank of blessed memory passed on four years ago.

The most signifying experienced for me this year was going to Polland. Walking in the footsteps and following the path taken as my family, grandparents, aunts and uncles, walked from the trains to the crematorium in Aushwitz. This experienced totally shattered me and stayed with me for weeks and weeks. How did such an evil thing happen? Why did it happen and how could God let it happen? This was a life changing experience , re-affirming why holocaust education and museums are so important. Teaching and doing all we can to never let this happen again.

My brother-in-law passed away in April. I was not especially close to him; I had known him only about three years. My wife was his baby sister, and it affected her deeply. His passing affected me in that I worked hard to support my wife as she had to deal with her brother's passing, both emotionally and in terms of settling his estate. I'd like to think that I did a decent job of both.

The purchase of Barbara’s book of business. The effect it had on me was an increase both stress and satisfaction levels. I am extremely grateful for it. It is an immense responsibility to continue someone’s legacy / life’s work. It is an exciting time but it is also a time of change which can bring about stress.

I bought a condo! Honestly, I learned more from the process than any attachment to being a homeowner. I'm impressed with my ability to do something quickly, and it helped me to become more confident in myself and my independence.

I had a medical emergency, which thankfully turned out to be minor. It made me reflective and appreciative of my health. It still keeps me mindful of what is important in life, to maintain choices in line with my morals and goals and to have faith. The results of my poor health jolted me into action. My illness led to leaving my comfort zone and demanded I make changes. It reminds me that what falls apart will come back together; it is cyclical. I was inspired to learn to adapt to change and to accept what comes in and out of my life.

We had a house fire in May. The first week or so, I was filled with extraordinary gratitude for surviving and for getting my family out safely. The ensuing weeks of finding a rental home and sorting through damaged items and items a company tried to clean overshadowed that gratitude. Now that we are beginning the rebuilding phase, my gratitude is a needed positive force in my life.

I got married--kind of, the private way, not the "well everybody knows" way. We'd had the talk, and he was... apprehensive... of the concept of marriage and husband and wife. Presumably because of his own parents' marriage, which ended in divorce when he was a teenager. Really, he couldn't even bring himself to say any variation of the word--marry, married, marriage. It was always "it," as in, "if we do it, then at least you'd have insurance." And I took it personally. While I never doubted his commitment. Why, if he was so "sure of us," was he afraid? Was he ashamed of me? Embarrassed? Waiting for something better to come along?d We were already married, for all intents and purpose. We'd said the words. We'd committed ourselves to each other and to building a life together. We'd already worked out our similarities and our differences and our compatibility. He recognized the practicality of a marriage license if something happens to one of us, if I get sick and he has no say in my medical care, or if he's in the hospital and I'm not allowed to visit him but his brothers are. We met for lunch one day, at a Chinese buffet near our place. I don't remember the exact details of how I put it, but I told him how I felt like he had some reservations still about our future, and if the did that I understood that, and I was ready to back off. And I was sad while I told him that. "I have no doubts about you," he told me. "Or us." He talked about how he was worried about himself (or maybe his parents), that he couldn't be enough (he's always been more than enough), and "Fuck it, let's get married." We were getting ready to go out the other night and he looked at me funny--like he does constantly--and said, 'Thanks for being my beautiful wife." "Thanks for getting past your fear of that word and letting me be. Promise to always make it worth it." "My expectations have already been far exceeded." We have a strong, happy relationship. Nothing's changed since we got married--in April, in secret, with only my sister and one of his best friends in tow (we haven't even told parents yet)--except maybe I feel more assured and calm than I have in a long time. We fight well, which is rare in itself. We don't hold grudges. We don't do the silent treatment or use sex as a bargaining tool. We laugh and work to find a balance between boring, adult things like laundry and bills and getting out with friends, having parties, playing pool and listening to music. In a lot of ways, I feel more complete now than I ever have. I realize that's a double-edged sword, saying that. A person should be complete in and of themselves, right? They shouldn't need a relationship to define them, right? That's the thing: I do. I've always needed other people to help give my life context and meaning. A success, for me, is pointless if I don't have somebody to share in that success with me, to share in my happy moments as well as my failures. I don't think that makes me a weak person. I think that makes me capable of quite a lot of compassion and love, if we're being honest.

I started my career as an employment advisor/job coach, from zero experience in or knowledge of the industry. Over the year I have been trained up and was offered my first permanent contract there. Having a secure, long term role in a job I enjoy and have become good at has changed my life, given me confidence in myself and plans for the future.

Two women who were like mothers to me passed away just 2 weeks apart. The first was the woman I always called "my second mother." I grew up next door to her. She had 2 sons & always wanted a daughter. She was thrilled when I came along. I spent countless hours in her kitchen "helping" her cook & chatting about everything. Her door was always open to me. Exactly 2 weeks after my "second mother" died, my aunt died. My aunt was the younger sister of my mother. When I wasn't at my next door neighbor's house, I was probably over at my cousins' house. My aunt definitely took the mom role when I was there. I love these beautiful women so much. Their passing makes me sad that I no longer have the chance to see them; reflective about life, death, family, illness, health; and extremely grateful that in addition to my mother, I had such good role models and received unconditional love from them.

The birth of my second child, and our family's move to what we hope will be our permanent home. We are still getting settled...and our daughter has had some rough periods these last few months. I can't say I feel relieved so much as hopeful that our life is starting to settle down a bit.

This past year I graduated from my masters program and my educational career came to an end. I am very grateful to have received the opportunity to earn an education. I am quite relieved it has come to an end, but it is very bittersweet. I do not know if this is the official end, but luckily I have a job that helps me to continue learning. It has inspired me to institute the lessons I have learned but sometimes I feel that I am not fulfilling these lessons.

I moved half way across the country to start a life with my partner. We had been doing long-distance for over a year. I find that I sometimes flip between the world I left, including a state I loved, and the world I am in, where I am in love with someone. It has been difficult to shift into a more urban area. I once loved cities, yet find myself struggling here. Many days I am grateful for this experience, and enjoy figuring out the city and walking it with my partner. Some days, if I am really honest, I wonder if I made the wrong decision, if maybe I shouldn't have taken her up on her offer to move to me. Maybe though this anxiety will ease once I find a job that will sustain travel. Maybe. For now, I am reminded that moving is difficult and adjusting to change after doing so can be challenging. I am thankful for this new city and all that it offers... offers so many things my previous place did not. yet lacks so much that it did.

ended meaningful relationship. Saddened but consoled by memories of trust and respect which characterized relationship. Life goes on, always try to look ahead. Memories don't dictate the future.

My husband and I decided to move to the woods in two years and then bought property. I made the decision to live in a separate living space than my husband when we move to the woods. I also made the decision to start a new life, making functional art and growing vegetables and herbs. I feel excited about the decisions and like I'm awakening from a long slumber. I also feel a little like I hope I keep the fire going and turn the decision into a reality. I am grateful for part 2 of my adult life.

This year I got married. Planning for the we,"ding took a better half of a year and there were moments that were totally overwhelming, but the weekend was magical and while it didn't seem to "change anything" at first, now after a few months I am beginning to feel more connected, maybe even "cemented," to my husband in a new way. Planning a family and a future together seems more real and I'm really looking forward to it!

Living without my mother and father took hold this past year. It created some sadness and regret on my behavior when they were living. I am inspired to create an atmosphere for our children so that they do not have this same issue at my passing.

My grandmother passed away. It was incredibly sad, however I was in a situation where I had to mask my grief from when I found out and for five days after that, so I never really allowed myself to grieve. At the funeral, I had mostly an empty and confused feeling.

I backpacked through Europe for two weeks by myself at the age of 19. I experienced many firsts during that trip; my first flight on an airplane, my first time in Europe, my first time traveling completely alone (although, I knew I had God and my father with me), my first and only time taking a certain something, my first time experiencing harassment in public for kissing a man, my first time being in a place where I had no secure place to sleep at night, my first time meeting people I probably never would have met, my first time trying to ridiculously sell something, my first time witnessing a man getting interrogated in various languages in the same room as me, my first time seeing history in the present, and my first time feeling truly alive. I was more adventurous during those 2 weeks at age 19 than I've been for 28 years. I am so grateful for the experience. It inspires me to be that adventurous again now.

Today, in fact, in the day that our beloved pet of 13 years, Logan....a yellow lab....passed away. She died peacefully in Ann's arms after Ann asked Steve to call her home. Feelings of grief but also relief that she will no longer suffer. She is with Steve and Duke now and I see them running and playing and all is well.

A significant experience that happened to me in the past year was signing up for yoga teacher training. During this year so far I've done 150 hours of training and it has been profoundly opening, affirming, confronting, encouraging, stretching, frightening, and beautiful. I am beyond grateful for this experience. I am grateful to my husband for facilitating it. I am grateful to myself for creating it. I am excited about what's to come and proud of my strength and my genius for doing this right before my 40th birthday.

My marriage ended after more than 35 years of being together. I still have mixed and conflicted feelings. We are still friends, and I admit, that I thought we would work it out, and renew our relationship, but that did not happen. I still feel deeply attached to him in some ways, but every time we talk, it always comes back to him not being satisfied with me. So, for these days of awe, I hope to begin renewing myself, and to shed the depression and loneliness that has saturated a good deal of my life for so long. If anything feels brave on my part, it was the decision to move out and give up my home, my neighborhood and look at life from a different perspective. Please, someone tell a joke, I need to laugh again.

Yoga Teacher Training. I am so inspired and so grateful. I feel so connected to my self and my kula and it has created a mindfulness in me that I hope to never lose. I want to teach yoga, and inspire young people.

The thing on my mind right now, which will hopefully end up being an accomplishment for this year, is that I have gone 10 days without smoking. And this time I'm pretty sure it's going to stick. I feel great about that one. I feel so much more awake, and younger, or the age I should be. It hasn't been that much of a struggle this time, but I think I had been mentally preparing for a long time. I also adopted Gidget the puggle, and have continued to foster dogs periodically. Mostly I'm grateful that I can help, but it can get to be a burden, too, depending upon the dog. Adopting Gidget means committing to a few more years of dog ownership. I'm coming to the realization that I will just need to factor that into my plans / budget. It looks like I'm a dog person and will always have dogs, at least until I'm ready to retire and travel more.

I trained for Iron Horse in Durango, Colorado. Conditions changed the race. I completed 50 miles, it was hard, even though I didn't do the expected climbing. I was disappointed and have grappled with why I had difficulty appreciated what I did and feeling good about the amazing training I did, rather than being disappointed about the event day results. Normally I think of myself as a half glass full kind of person, but in this case I've been disappointed That said, the training was amazing. I did something I didn't know I could do. It comes down to my relationship with my personal power. Defining and appreciating my power. I did the training to feel powerful, but my power comes from strength of character, intuitive and creative power. I need to accept that every day and choose to act from deep power.

This year, only 2 months ago, my mom passed away. It is very raw still. She was the only one who was soft, warm and cared only for my best interests. She was the most wonderful woman and I am so lucky to have had HER as my mom. I am great fun and sorrowful at the same time. I have my Dad, thank god! He's healthy and doing well. I wonder if I will ever be complete without my mom. I think she taught me well and I hope I have matured enough by 54 to live on my own!!!

Quite expectantly, I was hired for a new job around the same time I was starting a graduate program. I had asked my parents for financial help for half of the tuition and they agreed. The new job required me to obtain a vehicle. I also asked my parents to help and they did. Suddenly, I was surrounded by all this abundance and wonder and did feel grateful for the help....but so deeply resentful at the same time. I think it's because my birth mother seems to want nothing to do with me.

I moved out of my house on 238 Cole. A lot happened in that house (Pasha and I starting, me entering the "real world" and all the shit that comes with it, CG, 24th birthday party etc, etc), and I was sad to leave it. So sad that I felt a bit numb. I did not want to think about never going back there...nostalgia would have been rampant. The place on Hayes is feeling like home now, but if I let my mind wander to Cole St., I still feel a bit like I should be there.

There are several, but here I'll talk about the depression I experienced this Spring and early summer. It was my first in many years, and it rocked me to my core. Now on the other side of it with the help of meds, therapy, supportive friends and a loving relationship, I can see how my thinking was warped, how smart I am in my depression, in other words the way my depressed mind can say just the things to plunge me deeper and make me believe every word. I still feel bruised, I know my partner is still a little bruised from the toll it took on her and our relationship -- but here on the other side I certainly feel relief that it's over, and grateful for the feeling of rising from the ashes, the renewal that provides. I feel centered and at peace in my life, more so for the way that sense was rocked by this experience.

The most significant experience was my daughter's request for me not to contact her. She was going through a lot of personal issues and she was not able to allow me into her life. I gave her the space she needed and am very glad I followed her wishes. I am very relieved she was able to successfully manage her stress and get her life back on track. My daughter calls me and shares her daily life with me, I'm so happy. I believe if I did not abide by her wishes I might have lost her. I can't lose my only child, she means the world to me.

This past year I got married and went on a great honeymoon with my husband. It was such a wonderful experience! There have been challenges during this first year of marriage but I am confident that we will continue to grow as a couple. I also got a new job and am so happy in it. This time last year, I was miserable and looking for something new. This team has been such a great fit. I am extremely grateful.

I'M PREGNANT! It's exciting. I'm also nervous every single day that something will be wrong with the baby, that I'll miscarry, or that I'm not eating right or taking good enough care of myself. I know that birth will hurt, and that the first months/years will probably be a strain on our relationship. But... we're having a baby! I'm also pretty confident that I will do fine giving birth, thanks to my rowing and tough-through-pain experience. Other that that, I got a job as a translator. I'm about to move to more hours - nearly full-time. I have a professional job! I'm proud of myself.

From atop Mt. Bental in the Golan Heights of Israel, I listened to a tour guide recount the bravery shown by the IDF during a famous tank battle many years ago. I listened in horror because over our guides shoulder was no peacefully barren battlefield, but instead a landscape alive with plumes of smoke, artillery fire, and burning vehicles; just across the Syrian border, we could see the abandoned town of Quneitra under siege. As our tour guide calmly and casually continued with his history lesson, and another one panned out behind him, I realized that i'd never felt closer to history itself, never closer to feeling firmly wedged in the present moment. It was a horrifying thing to watch, and almost as horrifying to read about later that evening on the front page of the news, but the only closure I was able to find from this experience was from knowing that I was there. However significant or insignificant this actual battle was, I have not since experienced the news in the same way. I feel guilty that I feel more responsible to learn what's going on simply because I was directly exposed to something "newsworthy", but at the same time i'm extremely grateful for it.

This year, I have begun recovery from the loss of my relationship with my son, and have reevaluated my relationships with my sister and my mother. This has been arduous, painful, and sorrowful, but necessary. As I move forward, I am reconnecting with my values, calling on and rebuilding my strength, and learning to like myself again.

I got married - twice! My wife and I live in Louisiana where gay marriage is not legal. We got married in D.C. in October and then had a small ceremony at home with our families this past May. I am grateful that we have such loving, wonderful families that accept us and our relationship. We know that there are many out there that don't have that kind of support.

Although this technically happened the year before last, it was last year that the situation played out to its fullest and was the most important thing happening in my life. My daughter became chronically suicidal, was self harming regularly, and was diagnosed with major depression and anxiety disorder. After both in- and outpatient hospitalizations, she, and our entire family, embarked on a treatment plan centered around Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My daughter is fighting her demons--and winning. I am at times her co-warrior, her head cheerleader… her passionate and devoted advocate, and always… her mom. Ultimately, of course, I wish she had never, ever suffered in this debilitating way. The futility of such a wish became clear relatively quickly in the process of coping and fighting and seeking health, and as I made my way down this very long road, I did begin to feel grateful for the opportunities the illness--and the treatment--provided. Of course I felt guilty feeling grateful, but that's another story. It is challenging (and another opportunity) to feel grateful for illness, especially someone else's. I learned how to validate--really validate--my daughter. I learned how to listen to her, how to comfort her, how to leave her alone, how (and when) to let go, how (and when) to embrace, and how to tell her… in a way she could actually HEAR, that I would always be there for her, that I love her no matter what, and that I deeply and wholly support her in becoming her truest self.

I was hospitalized this past year for a major depressive episode or what used to be called a nervous breakdown. Now I have a new psychiatrist and therapist. It was an experience I was afraid of but now it's not so scary. Not that I want to ever do it again but I know if I need to I won't be afraid and I'll know the signs. I also will know when to ask for more help so I won't have to go again.

When I was 16 years old I traveled out the country and got my passport for the first time. I traveled to Argentina. Argentina will forever be a magical place for me because it was the first time I had experienced another culture besides my own. That trip changed my life forever and how I saw the world. In June 2014, almost exactly 10 years later I went back to Argentina on a end of the school year trip. 6 students.2 chaperones. Full circle moment I got to travel with 6 of my students and another co-worker who happened to be my theater teacher in high school. It was great experience planning the trip with her.

I was not allowed to attend to my first solo exhibition in my hometown / country due to having my visa expire and the renewal caught in government bureaucracy. By literally not being allowed to leave the country (because I would not be readmitted) I realized how much I take for granted my freedom to travel as I please without restriction. But I was grateful for this experience because I realized that even though I was not able to physically be there it did not take away from what I had finally accomplished.

My daughter was born. After three boys, I'm happy, she's wonderful, a great baby, she sleeps a lot, she smiles a lot, she's very healthy. Often I'm sad, knowing this is the last time. That I will never have this experience of parenting a newborn again. With all three of my previous children, it's been a wonderful time of bonding, amusement and amazement. It's still all those, but it's tinged with a sadness I cannot fully explain. In parenting having a newborn really has been the happiest time for me, it's difficult, but you always see the progress. It's sleepless at times, but there is always the unconditional love of a newborn baby to ease any problem. I feel a longing for things that will never come; we cannot have more children, so every second of this experience counts, it feels weighted, over-important. Sometimes I feel I've taken the other times for granted, so I need to make this last time the most special of all, to treasure every, single, last second. People always tell you it goes so fast, after three children before now, it seems to fly by like the ephemerality of clouds in the sky; always changing, always mutable, always passing.

My husband applied for a sentence commutation that would have brought him home this year instead of 2017. After the last four years of this difficult life of being the wife of a man that is incarcerated, I was obsessed with the idea that the struggle would soon be over and my husband would be home with me where he belongs and where I need him. The clemency was denied as well as another court application for early release. It was a real set back and a blow to our sense of hope and justice. I am resentful towards the governor's office and the local court. My feelings generate from the fact that because this is an election year, it was a purely political denial, not one based on my husband's worthiness of mercy. I think of all the letter writing by myself and our support network, all the documents we filled out, all the hard work he has put into a positive correction and here's the rub...rehabilitation, ( a joke in the penal system) time of incarceration came down to who was up for re-election and how THEIR record would look. We are both holding on to our belief that everything happens for a reason and we are only getting stronger in our commitment to each other. So I am hopeful that on reflection of this time a year from now, we will see God's perfect timing and be able to understand His lessons in patience and faith.

This past year, stress at work has reached a fevered pitch, and with it, my anxiety levels. All the spiritual books that have really touched me have recommended meditation, so I started meditating. I'm not even sure if I'm doing it right yet, but I suppose that's part of the practice: just doing what you can and moving on. It has definitely transformed my life.

Im writing this a day late but tomorrow i will have gotten accepted to FAU. This was my first college acceptance, the first of many to come :) i was so excited when i opened the internet browser i was just expecting to see if my transcripts had been received but there it said i had been admitted. I literally cried i was so proud of myself that i am really going to college. By the time i read this i may be at FAU or UCF wherever i end up i know i will have a super successful future and make good friends and great memories. I'm excited for what my future holds and kinda excited to see this message in 365 days so keep on keeping on don't give up no matter how stressful college may be i know that i am going to find myself and be successful!

I've had the opportunity to become more fully and deeply connected with my cousin Catherine and to be a support and encouragement to her in her present circumstances and pursuit of a substantial change in her life. It's really been redemptive, in a manner of speaking, because I have often felt that I let her and her brother down in the aftermath of their Dad's suicide 24 years ago. We've been able to share about that and to work through the pain and hurt associated with those memories and I'm really grateful for this re-connection with her.

I saw a man with a low-paying job but with a near-perfect credit rating transform his reality from living in a dilapidated bug-infested home to the buying of a beautifully landscaped acre with a a nearly new, lovely, clean home. Witnessing this makes me think all things are possible.

I finally filed for divorce. It was a long time coming, and it was the hardest thing I've ever had to do...very painful emotionally and financially. Although there are still loose ends to tie up, I am relieved that it is done (almost). I'm sure I will feel ripple effects for years...in fact, the water is still pretty choppy at the moment.

The obvious answer is going through a breakup and falling in new love at the same time. I'm grateful AND relieved AND resentful AND inspired and a whole lot of other things. This process asked a lot of me - honesty, transparency, graciousness, thoughtfulness, patience, willingness to learn, and gentleness with both myself and others. I am glad to be where I am now, and feel like it went as well as it could have. But mostly it took so much energy, and I'm hoping that this year I'll have a bit more emotional space for other things.

Over the past few weeks, I've finally realized why I enjoy going to the Buddhist center so much... It feels like home. I don't have to pretend. I can just be me. It's a liberating realization, and one that will make those feelings even stronger. It took 3 years to articulate this, but it doesn't matter. I've been enjoying myself and learning so much in the process. It will be interesting to see what other realizations I have there.

Andres proposed! I had been feeling a bit resentful that it hadn't happened after five and a half years; but I'm so glad that we took all that time. We talked through the layers of fear and uncertainty, and built an incredible foundation, based on trust, love, joy, and communication. He took me to the top of Mount Tam on a beautiful February day; and presented me with his great grandmother's stunning diamond ring. After lots of estatic head nodding, I said yes!! we celebrated by taking pictures, and eating tacos in nearby Stinson Beach. Andres had a bloody mary, and I enjoyed a mimosa. Getting engaged has brought the future into focus. We talk about what we want married life to be like, how we want to spend our time (more cooking, more community, more nature, more family), what we are hopeful for (kids!), and how we want to grow together. Its the best thing that has happened to me - and I am so grateful to Andres for being my partner.

I spent two weeks with our grandsons for the first time since they have been old enough to truly connect with. I realized how very much I love them, and how moved I am to see what a wonderful mother my daughter is. I am SO grateful, and wonder how I was so fortunate as to have such a spectacular daughter -- I was working so hard while she and my son were small that I am now just realizing how much better I could have been as a parent.

We had a baby boy. We became parents for the first time 21 years ago, when we were teenagers. By age 25, we had 3 beautiful daughters. No sons. After 13 years, one surprise pregnancy which ended in miscarriage, 2 more miscarriages, 4 rounds of IVF, countless medical procedures and lots of hoping, we finally had our beautiful, oh-so-wished for baby boy. It was such a happy time, 13 yrs of hair barrettes and braided hair and princess stuff and tea sets and dresses and sewing and glitter and pink! 13 years of comments like "no boys, huh?" and "all girls???" and "when will you have a boy?" and "girls are better anyway" in a consoling tone - it all ended with the glorious birth of this wonderful, very active, rambunctious, beautiful baby boy. Oh, how he fills my heart with joy. All the sleepless nights, all the poop diapers, all the spit up, all the dirty laundry, fussy moments, colicky nights have been gloriously met with a smile because I am simply OVERJOYED to have this little guy. "How wonderful life is, now that you're in the world."

This year has been so transformative. Our apartment burned down in February and I am particularly proud of how my husband and I handled it. We also had so much support from friends and family that it made us realize how lucky we are. We are now living in a duplex with a yard for our dogs. My husband has a new job and I got accepted into a supervisor program at mine. Overall, the fire brought us closer to together and showed us what's really important in life. It's the people, not the possessions.

After a very difficult pregnancy,I lost my baby and my husband walked out on my other 3 children and I. After being consumed by hurt,anger and shame ,I have come to the realization: This might just have been the best thing that has ever happened to me. His walking out empowered me like nothing else ever did. No one second guesses my natural correct instinct about things I feel are right,I do what I want,when I want and do not have to take care of a fourth child,on top of the 3 I already have. I can now make lifelong decisions about things I truly want to do and not worry first about someone else's needs. Most women in my position would cry and lament this state of events. I am free!!!

My eldest son started university. Was a bit uncertain as to how he would cope at res, but thankfully he's loving it as varsity and in the res.

This past year, I paid off my credit card debt. I started building a savings account for the first time in my life. I've spent the past year living at home, trying my best to be frugal. I am grateful to have more financial stability, that saving made it easier to replace my car when my civic was totalled. But I feel like my self-confidence is still recovering, like I have become a younger version of myself rather than growing more mature. I feel resentful that I've been living with my parents for one full year, but then I get discouraged because I could leave anytime and I still have yet to do so.

I had three surgeries this past year as my husband and I plan for a family. I'm relieved and grateful to come through them and humbled by the entire fragility of our lives as it comes to creating a family. Still processing it all.

I'm cheating a little bit because this was last year, but I need to put in here my discovery of trapeze. I am so incredibly grateful to have found this passion...the people, the catharsis, the joy, the self-improvement, the perspective, and everything else it brings me on a weekly basis have absolutely been life altering in a good way. I hope it remains a permanent fixture in my life and helps me to seek out other things/people that bring a similar joy/perspective.

In October of last year, I changed jobs. it was a big change in that I was moving from a comfortable role, albeit frustrating, to a role where there was no structure, no rules, no plan. And it was up to me to set direction, build the team and get the team back on the path to success. Am I grateful that I made the move. Very, very grateful. A year out, (and honestly I knew it was the right path immediately), I am so much happier in my life. And it isn't that this new position hasn't had it's challenges, its just that at the end of the day, I feel my efforts are more respected and valued. That isn't to say I don't have regrets surrounding this decision. Or rather, my regrets stem from the fact that I didn't make this decision sooner. I was very resentful of my previous company and leadership. You don't leave a company. You leave a boss. My boss told me what I wanted to hear. But she didn't support me. And a year out, I recognize that now. And a year out, I realize that I ignored the warning signs and convinced myself that she did that she did support me even though the evidence was right in front of me, I wanted to believe her words. I wanted to feel valued, even though in my heart, I knew I was not. I regret that I allowed myself to ignore my feelings and keep doing what I knew felt bad. I regret that I allowed myself to be complacent and accepting of a situation because I liked the team I worked with and the money I was making. I regret that I allowed myself to be a person I wasn't because of the situation I was in. Looking back, I was angry and unhappy. I didn't feel respected. I did feel marginalized in many, many ways. Looking back, this anger, this angst worked against me as I tried to claw myself out of the hole I was in. I regret that I allowed myself to become an angry and unhappy person because I refused to accept the situation I was in. Looking back to where I was and where I am now, I am very happy to have made the change. I am very happy to be where I am. And I am very driven to prove that this was the correct choice for me.

This year was very challenging. I HIT ROCK BOTTOM FINANCIALLY AND HAD TO GIVE UP MY APARTMENT AND MOVEIN TO MY BROTHERS. i GOTA NEW JOB AND AM LOOKING FORWARD TO REGAINING MY INDEPENDENCE AND GETTING BACK ON MY FEET FINANCIALLY.

I dealt with my Dad. My dad has always been abusive, but just in a way that is very subtle to others. I stood up to him this year. I told him to stop smoking pot, stop being abusive towards me, and to start treating my guinea pig better and actually start taking care of it. He didn't listen to any of it, but now I have proven to myself that I am strong. I am both relieved as I have now gotten the legal ability to not have to see him, and resentful because despite my extreme hissy fit and him losing his daughter's trust, he still hasn't changed. I guess some never will.

I work at a daycare and was accused of hitting a child. It does make me feel resentful and afraid of doing my job.

This year i saw my daughter graduate from high school and enter college with a sense of excitement and wonder and feel that we as adults lose that optimism and become cynical as years and circumstances pass. I'm inspired to renew myself and lead my family to maintain that excitement all their life.

Finding out I was pregnant, and giving birth to my little angel! Also, coming back to Australia, which means I'm long-distance with my partner, but that me and my baby can enjoy being with my parents :)

2 things- The birth of my third son renewed my desire to be a present parent. I also feel grateful that the fog of depression I had with my first son after his birth was not present for this baby. I love being in the now for him. Leaving my job has been both relieving, brought up resentment and painful. I still can not put into words the impact of leaving as it is so fresh, but hopefully with time, I will get the affirmation that it was the right choice.

I stopped drifting. Being diagnosed with anxiety and possibly (probably) depression was a big upheaval - panic attacks, hospital visits, medications, all major life changes. Even though it was extremely difficult to experience at the time, I'm thankful that it happened since it shook me out of the stasis I'd been in for a few years.

I don't know if there's a single experience that affected me. But overall the amount of gun violence, and violence from people in authority over the people they are charged to protect has concerned me, and has me concerned for the future with my son. I feel powerless.

I moved onto a boat. I think it's great so far - I guess ask me again next year after the winter!

I won a short story writing competition. It made me feel like there is hope, like I can do this thing that's always been inside me, and write.

This year I started a new job after feeling stuck at my old job. I had become complacent and stayed. Instead of growing I stagnated in the same types of roles for 8 years. I feel I have nothing to show for it save a few unnecessary electronics. Having now transitioned to Apple I'm happy again and feel freed from my burdens. I hope that by next year I will have completed a full semester of school as I further my education.

I was sacked for the first time in my working life. It made me realise that how much I hated the job was coming through in my negative attitude despite performing the role well, and that I should have followed my instincts. It didn't feel right from the start, it wasn't right, and I felt relieved when I was sacked, but instead of listening to myself and leaving I let things get to a point which put them in a position of control. Also made me think a lot about fate and the universe always finding a way, as two days later I had a new job at a small friendly firm which I (so far at least) love. Everything happens for a reason and never stay somewhere you hate just because you think it's easier.

I got to spend a little private time with my Grandmother in her senior home. She is 99. It was difficult to see her life reduced to a small room among a lot of people who are dying. She still made jokes and was still herself despite not loving her new residence. I was grateful for the time to be with her since I live so far away. I want to live as long as she does and in the best health I can.

My significant experience is not one event, it is being with my granddaughter who is two and a half years old. Watching her changes my view of the world around and I am very grateful for this experience, it brings optimism and joy to my life.

I got a new boss, who is very young. (Young enough to be my son.) We all thought it would be a disaster due to his inexperience. Instead, he has turned out to be an exceptional person, whip-smart, open minded and willing to learn. He values our experience & realizes that we all succeed or fail together. From this, I have learned to be more open minded myself and to not be so quick to judge. I should temper my natural pessimism. I had fallen into the trap of doubting my own talents, like I got where I am because of a few lucky breaks. Being valued by this stranger has given me more confidence in myself.

I have learned that no matter what, boys are going to suck. But the good things they do, the cute things, the things that make you happy, are going to mask over all the shit things they do.

I gave birth to my fourth child. Unlike my previous births, this one was scary, painful, and even a bit traumatic. This helped me feel that our family is now complete, and be extra thankful for the medical professionals who were there.

I am grateful for the birth of my healthy granddaughter. I am grateful that my daughter is engaged to a wonderful man

Holding my second grandson

This holiday and this exercise comes at an interesting time for me this year. Just days ago the person I thought loved me and who I loved back chose to be intimate with one of my best friends. I am not really sure how I feel about all of it yet, I am still processing everything. I am angry, sad, and resentful but also at the same time grateful that these people have shown me their true colors. I don't need people in my life who want to hurt and betray me. This experience has inspired me to cut negative people out of my life who no longer serve me and who so greatly control my happiness. I know I have a long road ahead of me filled with a roller coaster of emotions but I hope I can look back on this in a year and will no longer be allowing disrespectful people in my life but rather demanding the kind of respect I deserve.

I sold my company. My immediate feeling was great relief to finally be done with the burden of paying our royalties. But I was also disappointed that we couldn't get more money. I always thought that selling my company would enable me to retire. I eventually got used to the idea that selling my company was the best thing for us since we were in such financial troubles and it enabled a very soft landing. All of our debt got paid off and we were still able to each net nearly 1/2 million in the bank. During the transition, I was extremely busy and very angry at the amount of work that fell on my shoulders. As it neared an end, I then started to be a bit scared about the uncertainty of my future. Overall, the sale forced me to finally come face to face with years of feeling insecure and like a fraud. I had to rewrite my resume which was very tough. But that was part of the transitionary process and it really helped me to acknowledge my accomplishments. It also helped me resestablish my sense of self-confidence.

I changed career. Not entirely, as I'm still in financial services, but I changed from an external customer-facing service role to an internal business-analysis role. This was monumental for me. I'd been doing client relations work for nigh on 14 years, so to finally put down the telephone and cease having to butter up pompous financial advisers every day was liberating, to say the least. So far so good, but more significantly was the way in which I came about the career change. I got involved with a colleague, a senior one, who eventually appointed me in my new role. We had gotten close originally as she agreed to be a kind of mentor, and had helped me to think about my career and future inspirations. She's pretty inspirational, and has achieved a hell of a lot in a fairly short space of time. Things like working abroad in many different countries, leading teams and departments, earning huge amounts, etc. She encouraged me to go for the job, boosting my confidence in the way I needed it. I've always known that I should have been doing more than I had been, but 2 things hadn't happened to change it. Firstly, I hadn't really been given the chance to prove what I could do, in any other areas. But secondly, and more importantly, I just hadn't gotten off my arse and made anything happen for myself. I'd moved jobs, sure, and gotten progressively higher salaries and positions. But always in the same client relations field, the one that drained me of lifeforce every day, dealing with things on a continuous loop. Here was a woman offering me a chance to leap the career chasm, and I grabbed it with both hands. I worked lots of overtime initially before the role was even available, helping out with project work they had going on. Eventually, someone was promoted and the role was offered up internally. Seems I was the only person to go for it, which can only have helped! 2 presentations as part of my interview though, it wasn't easy, no way. Or was it? This whole significant event in my life has an undercurrent of uncertainty; did I get this because I deserved it, worked for it, made it happen? Or did I get it because I jumped into bed with the senior manager who runs the dept? And do I care about the answer to that? I'll be mulling it over for a considerable amount of time. When I'm not busy at work of course!

In May 2014 I received my DNA Genographic results and learned my ethnic make up. July 10th I received my original birth certificate, September 12th I connected with my biological family and learned I have 3 1/2 siblings and one full brother. On September 13th I spoke to my older sister Barb on the phone. On September 14th my brother learned about me and we connected on Facebook. On September 15th I spoke to my brother for the first time and on Friday, September 19th I met my brother, we embraced, we are now connected for life. Both of us now have that anchor we have been looking for our entire lives. If that's not enough that happened this year so far I don't know what is.

I went to Austria, Switzerland, and Germany. It was an incredible experience and showed me that I truly love to travel. I am so grateful for the experience and that my mom came with me. I loved sharing the experience with her, but I also proved to myself that I could travel on my own if I so choose.

My partner's mother passed away in February, after a (thankfully) short significant decline. This event was significant for us both, as it marked the end of a period of many (7-8) years where we both were devoting a great deal of our time and energy helping to care for aging parents in distant locales in concert with our siblings. It affected me deeply, having lost my own mom nearly 6 tears ago in difficult circumstances. Watching B go through the sorrow and fear of anticipating her loss then actually losing her brought up many feelings and memories, and it was emotionally heavy and draining for me. At the same time, it was another reminder of how profound such moments are, and offered fresh perspective on what is really important in life. I was grateful to be able to be a part of this journey with B and his family, and to offer some comfort and words of encouragement from my previous experiences, and to be with them through the lovely and difficult moments that made up the final months of her life. I am relieved to a degree that this chapter in our lives has ended, and curious as to how the next year will ultimately unfold - knowing as I do that the loss is also a new type of freedom from a responsibility that had been carried for a long time. The horizon has shifted, and we are scanning the new landscape, trying to find beginner's mind and simply remain open to possibility. I do have a deep sense of fatigue from the events of this year to-date - this loss was the most significant of many that have unfolded. As we head into the fall and winter months, there is a strong yearning for space, quietude, and rest.

I hate the word significant-it has too much emphasis on feelings and 'the moment.' All experiences are-in some way-significant. Even the small moments have significance... This summer, I spent some time with my mother's parents. We three were all sitting around the table and they were chatting while I ate a sandwich (my lunch). My grandfather gets a handful of Wheat Thins. Grandma says, "Marshall, is that your lunch?" Grandpa counts the crackers, "No, I'm only having six crackers. If it was ten, then it'd be lunch." She says, "Oh yes, yes, of course" as if six Wheat Thins is a nutritionally filling lunch. Amused, I look at the box with the nutrition information and tell them, "According to the box, sixteen crackers is one serving, guys." My grandpa's eyes half bugged out, "Sixteen!?" Grandma pursed her lips, shaking her head, "Oh that can't be right..." I contained my laughter then, grateful to have them in my life. My grandparents are simple people and in many ways I want to emulate the way they live their lives. Not necessarily by portion size, but by the size of their hearts.

A dear friend has succumbed to many disabilities and ailments, and I am happy to day that I have been there for her: Companionship, paying her bills,just being there for her.

There were two significant experiences I had over the past year. I will have had two short stories published by the end of the year, one online, one in print. I'm proud of the stories and I'm proud of the modicum of success that having them accepted at journals indicates. But another experience -- not necessarily more personal, but certainly more complex, was cleaning out the second house in East Hampton with my mother and brothers in a record day and a half of intense and exhausting work. As happened with my mother's 80th birthday, this reminded me of the glories of work on a project, which I've missed as the years have gotten me away from it, and more importantly, I think, my relationship with my brothers has tightened and strengthened, especially as our mother's needs have become more obvious.

The passing of my dog Zeus was hard because I cried a lot over his death and illness. My children had to see me go through this pain. While it is silly to think of the amount of grief, I am wondering how it would have been different if the passing was quick. Did I cry over his pain or his actual departure from our lives? I am relieved now that he is gone and the once vigorous animal suffers no more.

I had a choir concert that I asked my dad to come to, even purchased him a ticket. My mom always goes to my concerts. For some reason I got my hopes up that my dad would come. He didn't, I was very upset and angry. My partner suggested I talk to my dad about it, saying how disappointed I was that he didn't show up for me. I took his advice against my better judgement and my dad reacted negatively. He was very verbally and emotionally abusive. I left crying and very upset. I was so upset that I called my sister to come over and help me calm down. I used lots of coping techniques and eventually I worked through it. I think I was mostly upset because I realized this time, that my dad is mentally unwell and it's difficult to near impossible to have a relationship with him without significant boundaries, both physically and emotionally. Even though the event itself was terrible, in the end it has left me better. I am grateful I was able to see past the curtain I sometimes veil my father in. I have not seen my dad since the end of June and have only spoken to him a handful times politely over the telephone. I am ok about all of this.

I started therapy. After 8-ish months of unshakeable depression, I made a phone call to talk to someone. I am 4 months into that, and while it's slow going, just now I am finally starting to see a break in the clouds. I am finally starting to feel like me again. For the first time in about 2 years, I feel like my life is under my control again and I can move on from this 'stuck' place I've been sitting in for too long.

My sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. Right now, I'm just scared. I'm hoping someday she (and eventually all of us) can build upon this and use this for strength and inspiration. She's going through chemo right now. I feel like I can't do anything. But I'm trying to do all I can. For her, my mother, her husband and my wife.

I finished my studies with a BA honours first class. I did not do well in my last module and that detracted from the delight I felt at getting the first. It feels like the end of an era. Should I do a Masters? I can't afford it. I don't want this to be the end of my studies and I'd like to study a creative writing MA. But how?

i feel like there were a handful of significant events that happened to me this year. my first child turned one. i got married. i bought a house. i welcomed my second son into the world. i got a promotion at work. so many wonderful things to be thankful for. however, i would say the event that sticks out in my mind is getting married. here is where i am probably going to get a little long winded, which i think is the point of these reflection exercises. when i think about my life, where i have been and what i have done marriage is somewhere i didn't think i would end up again. okay, maybe i thought i would end up there some day but not so quickly. i still stare at the man in my life and think "we are going to be together forever" (and i genuinely mean that and feel that way, i'm not just saying it) and at the same time i keep wondering when i am going to be afraid of this. this is where i drop the other shoe. . .i've been married before, this is not a surprise for most of you out there. however, my exact words after my failed marriage were "never again". at the time i think i really felt that way. enter having children with this man that you genuinely love and your scope starts to change. i now had this feeling of - "how do i keep my family together?" i know in my head that a family doesn't have to live within some legal system to exist. long before the rules of man existed people did live this way - couples did it, and stayed together. so i am not a "everyone has to be married" type of gal. it works for some and others. . .not so much. what the couple has to determine for themselves is what they want their family to look like. i wanted my family to be together forever and i wanted the person that i loved and created a child with to say to me "i want that too. not only do i want to be with you for the rest of our lives but i love what we have created so much here that i too want to keep it safe". i started feeling that way last summer after my little boy started to get older. here's the God's honest truth: when the little boy was about seven months old i had a hard time thinking about what his life was going to look like. i was starting to feel like he was mine and only mine and i didn't want to share him. there are parts of me that still strongly feel this way. enter, his dad, my love and how he played a role in our lives. i wanted him to be there without question and if that was something he wasn't going to do then i was going to have to consider how i was going to protect and care for this child that i had deemed mine. now. let's take two steps back. this was never something that the little boy's father wasn't going to do. he has been there with joy in his eyes from the moment we found out that we were going to be a family and i love that about him. it was a lot at the time and there was so much emotion on my part that surfaced because of it. my life experience and where i was (still kind of am) has given me more time on this earth to come to this place. my spouse is still learning how to be the best dad/husband he can be. we try together to be the best that we can for each other and our children. we don't always get it perfect but who does. but the fact that we have one another to live in this world to make that a possibility makes it all worth it. just a few more things to add. i am one of those people that do much better in a relationship. i learned this about myself a few years ago. i need the balance. i need the checks and balances that a partner provides. the dysfunctional parts of me are mine to still fight, some of those demons will never die but i know how to give them a good stare down and keep them from running my life. he inspires this in my - they all do. finally, this is me answering the questions directly. How did affect you? It made me realize that I don't have to be afraid of being married and that while i am used to thinking of myself as a solo fighting to take over the world that is not the path I chose once I said "I do" that day in January. Are you grateful? Beyond. Relieved? Possibly. Resentful? No. Inspired? Truly. My plan is to always be the best that I can for the men in my life. Having this relationship and all that comes with it makes me want to build up truly awesome, healthy, funny, brave, outspoken, determined and solid males. Watch out World.

My partner and I moved in together again about a month ago after two years in our own apartments and I am so grateful and happy. We both have grown so much (and for the better) during our de-co-habitation and I can see the results right away. I feel so lucky to wake up next to him every morning and have had a lot of fun building a home with him again.

I now have my own place! I am forever grateful to my parents for their help these past years, and now with helping me get my own place for me and my daughter. It is wonderful to have my things unpacked and to live within my own space. To not sound too cliché, but it is like "a dream come true." I am looking forward to having house projects, painting rooms, gardening, decorating and all of this. Yet, with this comes expense and I am continually nervous about money, paying my bills, etc. I guess this will always be the case until I can start making more money and hopefully changing my career. When my daughter isn't with me and I am there by myself, I can sense my loneliness. Still, it is glorious to be "home"

I was laid off. Eek.... I'm feeling resentful and frustrated. Thankfully, I found another job quickly. I'm thankful for my current role, and the opportunities it's presenting. But, I had to take a $8k pay cut, which has been really difficult. Especially since my new role is requiring a lot from me. And, I worked very hard to earn my original raise. That is truly frustrating. I feel very duped by the whole event. I passed up another position (no telling how that would've fared) but it would've been an opportunity to learn, and I would've been making $4k more than I am currently. I realize that things happend for a reason, and I'm probably right where I'm supposed to be, but it's hard to see that right now. We'll see where I'm off to next....

In the past year, I fell in love for the second time. I found new emotions and thoughts that I had never had before. I learned what it was like to be loved back in a way that was exciting, beautiful, painful, and perfect. I am so grateful that I was able to find someone who has so many of the same ideas about life that I have.

I was asked to do two huge projects this year, and one of them led me to travel to India for a few weeks, and I hope to travel also to Africa. I am incredibly grateful. In the last couple of years I decided to try only to do projects that benefited the world, and that seems to be playing out. And in the process I'm seeing a lot of benefits.

The flood in Lyons, Colorado and hip and knee replacement surgery at almost the same time. I am grateful for the surgeries and came to appreciate my wife, family and local community for the good, compassionate and supportive folks they are. My wife was unceasing in her support for me through the surgeries and subsequent recoveries..even though I was sometimes grumpy. My community pulled together to help each other out as we were able to do and continue to do. Much has changed to make us a more tight-knit community and many are still making their way back after the loss of their homes and belongings. God's hand spared the lives of all but one of us.

I got hired at a big-name non-profit aiming at stopping an African Warlord. It is awesome and awful. I wish it were something I thought it was, but it seems that this might not be the place for me. I'm giving it my all, but, if the universe is still talking to me, I'm not hearing it.

My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. I'm certainly not grateful, I'm not even resentful. I'm just scared. Living with a disability myself, he did--still does--a lot for me. maybe this means that I have to do more for myself and for everyone else. I don't know what it means. It's just a bummer.

This year I had to confront and come to terms with my mother reconciling with the man who molested me. I feel unheard, un-valued and disgusted.

Didn't get the job. Still stings. Part of me is relieved. Part of me is inspired to get a new credential. Part of me is ready to move on to something different.

After a long battle at work, I was promoted and given more responsibility. It also came with a corner office and more authority on the work that we do here. At first I was reluctant to lead since it seemed like a long stride from my normal path, but then I settled into the position with zest. Sometimes I feel like a plate-spinner at the circus with the sheer number of projects I have to maintain and move forward, but it's been fun. I thrive in a challenging environment and rather enjoy the struggle to achieve successes in a chaotic, at best, organization.

Tested negative for AIDS after avoiding getting test for years.

My dad died at this time last year and it's affected every aspect of my life. I'm proud of the way I've stepped up for my mom, but I resent my siblings because I don't think they have. My husband and I have had big pressures on us all year but we're keeping our eye on the future and making our way through the heartache and stress.

36 days ago, I found out I have a large mass on my right ovary which my doctor said would need to be surgically removed. He didn't know what it was (benign/malignant tumor, fibroid, cyst, dermoid, etc.), and wouldn't know until he removed it and ran tests on it. My initial reaction was fear & sadness. Fear of the unknown, fear of it not being benign, fear of the pain of recovering from surgery, fear of it affecting my ability to get pregnant, etc. And sad because suddenly all of my "life plans" came crashing down around me (or so it seemed). I wasn't even aware of some of the plans...like my secret plan to keep both of my ovaries for the duration of my life, or my other plan to not get cancer. My husband has always been the more mellow of the two of us, accepting whatever life throws his way and not getting pissy about it. Well, I used to be the opposite -- resisting life when it didn't look how I thought it "should" and getting upset about it as a result. Through this experience, though, I've come to recognize just how little I can actually control in the world -- besides how I choose to show up. So now I've learned how to trust in the Universe's divine plan for me, and I'm committed to doing my part by showing up 100% every damn day. I feel FREE because I'm not worried about controlling things that are outside of my control...I simply focusing on BEING, and I remind myself "it is what it is." And for this...I am ETERNALLY grateful. I can hardly express my gratitude in words because it is so deep and heartfelt. This whole "ovary situation" (as I like to call it) has presented me with an amazing opportunity to learn about going with the flow.

To be honest, nothing really happened. Everything stayed the same. On one side this is quite comforting but it also makes me sad.

The birth of my daughter was the most significant event in the past year. I can not think of a more significant experience I have ever had. In those moments before she took her first breath, as she looked grey and lifeless, I was more paralyzed with fear and dread than I have every been in my entire life. Minutes and somehow ages later when she was breathing and at my wife's breast on the bed, in a strangely soft light for a hospital room it was the most awe inspiring scene I have ever witnessed. I just could not believe how beautiful and composed it all was. Since then my daughter, and my now more complete feeling family have brought me so much joy and love. Those moments of joy when I make her laugh and she in turn makes me giggle are soul filling and provide me with a meaning and purpose I have rarely felt before. At the same time the birth of my daughter has presented a new series of challenges and fears to creep into my mind. I try to keep those cordoned off and focus instead on the joy and the love but it's hard sometimes.

In the past year and a half, my father died of cancer and my best friend crashed into a tree on a rainy night, killing him instantly. I am grateful for the time I got to spend with my father at the end of his life. There was such bittersweetness there. My friend, who was an incredibly gifted painter, never put his art first. It occurred to me that my favorite living artist, was not only now dead, but only had twenty or so paintings to show for his time here. I vowed to start writing again- a huge source of depression for me has been something in me that keeps me from writing, even though I know it is one of my G-d given gifts. To me there is no greater tragedy than wasted talent. I have begun writing again in an attempt to honor my father and my friend.

Being self-employed and income was not helping my family, I was offered a full-time job in my profession. I'm so thankful for this opportunity in doing something that I love and would do for free. Thank you God!

Went abroad for the first time. With my best friend. It opened my eyes. There's so much that other people from my age have alteady experienced. And everything that I want to do and see and achieve I can. And will. I am gratefull dor the oppertunity.

On December 28th my daughter was born. She came so quickly that she was born on my bedroom floor. From that whirlwind entrance, followed a fast paced nine months. Life with her feels full, overflowing often. Love, exhaustion, cuddles, laundry, laughing laughing and then feeling lost and overwhelmed. And she is in the middle of it all, busy busy busy. Grabbing and crawling and crying and screaming and stealing her brother's toys. I knew having a second child would change my life, babies tend to do that. I just didn't realize how this baby, this little rabbit-punching speed demon with her father's dimples, would change me.

I had two hip surgeries that changed my life. I am transitioning out of the military as well. I am un sure of how that is exactly going to happen as of yet but I hope for the best. I am relieved that the problem was removed from my hips but the damage is permanent. I will be on a timer for the rest of my life. These surgeries were suppose to give me another 10 years before full hip replacement. I hope for the best. Resentful that I am being treated poorly by my military superiors and the medial system.

At 67, I returned to therapy after a 20 year hiatus. My former therapist wasn't an option and I was able to select a new therapist to guide me into forming some new perspectives and challenging me to recharge and move forward. I'm making some new decisions and my life and mindset are in flux. No longer the anxious young woman I once was, I see options that excite me, and challenges I'm ready to welcome. It was a tough year but worth the restlessness that has lead me here, now, today.

One significant experience this year was traveling to Puerto Rico with Teresa. Besides being extremely beautiful, it bonded us more and more. I am so incredibly grateful for our friendship. She inspires me all the freaking time :)

The most significant experience in my day-to-day life is my new job at The Andy Warhol Museum. When I walk to work and see this beautiful building filled with art treasures, I am grateful, and a full and happy feeling washes over me. I still can't believe this is my life, but the truth is, working in a museum is a very different experience than my idea of what it would be. There is a lot of confusion and less clear delineation of our activities than I imagined. This has to do with my specific job/responsibilities, and the department. I believe Education is the place that most needs me, but also where I feel someone uncomfortable. Another life changing event that happened this year was the death of my last grandparent. This event was strange because I felt grief and regret because I was not able to create a deeper relationship with her before her death and will never be able to talk with her again, but I also felt a sense of relief over what the next few years were going to mean for our family as her health declined. She was stubborn and wouldn't even allow a maid to come help out with household activities. So in that sense it makes me happy to know that she did not have to suffer or put her kids in a tense situation about how to care for her should her memory and frailty get worse. I think it happened the best way it could have. The worst feeling was simply empathizing with my mom and her brothers and sisters, who lost their mother. It also makes me thankful that I still have my mom.

I finally finished grad school and received my Master's in Public Administration and Nonprofit Management, specializing in Management - while working full-time and also consulting on a pro bono basis (as part of school), which ended up feeling like another part-time job. It was so hectic from November 2013 to May 2014. And, I had just started a new job!

This past year, I shut down my startup. It made me realize how resilient and focused I can be. I can do things that are uncomfortable and hard. I am very relieved it's over. I'm thankful to be released from the pressure I felt from being captain of a sinking ship.

Last year we debated about moving to San Francisco and I really wanted to. I spent lots of hours thinking about it, organizing and getting the kids applications to schools. But at the 11th hour, past the due date for accepting the schools, the other three members in my family said "no." I had to give up that dream of returning to my hometown and embrace the here. Part of me is sad that I'm away from family, especially my mother. Part of me is relieved that the option is closed and I have decided to live the present to its fullest. Carpe Diem

starting my sewing/designing business. I finally found an occupation that renders me happy and balanced. My creativity has an outlet. Makes me forget the outer world and my duties for a while.

i started a new job. it represents a massive cut in pay, in hopes that i'll learn valuable experience in the sports marketing industry. This is supposed to pay dividends in the future. it also represents a move to something less stressful and more aligned to my life goals. well. it's been a shock to all systems. big company, many stresses, many politics between people, new place to live in the big city. i'm on my path... next stop "Got it Together-ville"

i got deported back to the US from England. its was frustrating because i was so close to my goal, yet so far b/c i now had to start from the beginning to get there. as well as it was tiring, both physically, from traveling for 4 days straight w/o a break and mentally from the thought of keeping it together and having to sort things out, etc

After dreaming about it for a long time, I did my first long distance walk. It was in the Scottish highlands, with my daughter. I have always found the highlands to be an inspiring place, but i was truly grateful to be able do make the trek with my daughter. If I had waited till retirement, I wouldn't have been able to do this.

I experienced my fifth physical ailment in the last five years including wrist, knee, groin, and eye injuries, as well as cancer on my nose. Tolls of the aging process have become ever more clear and inevitable. More than ever I want to make better choices and use the time I have in positive and meaningful ways. I'm at times fearful, and others, more committed to be productive.

I asked the love of my life to marry me. More grateful than I can ever remember being in my life – for her, and for everything that is generally amazing in my life right now.

Wife filed for divorce 1/3/14, after 9+ years of marriage. I am relieved. I feel bad for the kids. I believe it was for the best and am hopeful to start enjoying life again and more often, not just in my time spent with the kids. I look forward to focusing on work again, to being more productive. I am fortunate for all the support I have from friends and especially family.

My sister, James and Moses came to live with us for 3 months. I learned how much I can love having the hubub and noise in my happy home and so grateful for the time I got to bond with that gorgeous soul, Moses. We are so close and I can't believe how much I love him. He made mornings more bearable, evenings a pleasure and weekends amazing!

Last year, I wrote my first novel during National Novel Writing Month. It was a great challenge to write so much in such a short period of time. However, I am proud that I was able to complete my project on time. Now that I know I can write a novel, I'd like to work on revising and editing so that I can build up the courage to publish. I'm fearful, but think I can overcome fear. I just need to balance my time and my life. Someday, I will be published.

My husband was diagnosed with later stage squamous cell carcinoma, which had spread to his lymph nodes. As a result, 2014 has been a year almost wholly focused on his health, treatment and recovery. We've been through the various stages: disbelief, anger, grief, resentment but mostly, gratitude, that he is okay, that we are okay, that are kids are okay and that we have this incredible network of friends and resources that we could lean on, pretty heavily, during this time. Not all people have that. The year has been a tough one, but the experience brought us closer together, made us more resilient and for me at least, more appreciative of what I have and aware of how precious life and family is.

I just officiated my brother's wedding this past weekend. It was stressful, and on top of normal anxiety I was sick with a sinus infection and didn't have a fully clear head. I am relieved to be through it and have it done. I received a lot of compliments from attendees. My brother and his now wife also thought I did a good job, but I feel like I could have done it better. I will probably nurse that for a while until I find some peace with it or God magnifies it in my prayers for some purpose I don't yet understand.

In April I attended a self-defense class, which turned into weekly sparring practice, which has led me to trying out Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I'm excited about a this new activity that will let me test my physical limits, learn new skills, and if I'm willing, devote years to its mastery. I also think of how I can be a good role model to my step daughter, and model habits I hope she'll take with her into adulthood.

The most significant event was the shift that happened when I went on a 7-day meditation retreat. It was the catalyst to series of unfolding that is still going on today.

Well, I spent the spring semester in Prague, Czech Republic. It was amazing; it totally changed me and my perspective on life. I don't think I realized that it changed me though. There wasn't a huge moment that happened when I was like "Wow, I'm different." But I see life differently now and I think it helped push my priorities to the right places. You walk around the city with no wifi, no data, you can't look things up if you are lost... You just keep walking until you find what you're looking for or better. It's such a refreshing feeling. Getting lost in a huge city with your new best friends in the pouring rain. Nothing better. Nothing so thrilling, exciting, and awakening. Like... let's go live. Get off the cell phones, there is a world out there to see and experience. I am so grateful for this experience. I am so so so thankful. I was looking back on my Europe pics last night and wanted to cry I missed it so much. People are so laid back over there. So nice, so kind, so generous.

The death of my older sister. Still affecting me. Grateful, relieved, resentful, inspired, sad, motivated.

A good friend of mine has a rare form of bone cancer. I've worked hard to rally my friends around him for calls, comfort, monetary issues. I'm thankful I am healthy and sorry that I can't do more for him. I have recommitted to raising more money for children's cancer research and had a successful event this year. It's been hard to think about what it would be like for my family to go on without me and the feelings have pushed me to be more present and engaged on a daily basis.

Travelling to South Padre Island in Texas last March to witness the bird spring migration was an exciting adventure. Getting up everyday to search and find what new birds the winds had brought our way was an exhilarating experience and a lot of fun. Very grateful to be able to travel in good health and have such an amazing time.

My boyfriend and I are in a long-distance relationship, and this year we worked out how to be together geographically too. This time next year we should be married and settled together :) Combination of emotions - impatience that it's not here yet, fear of things somehow not working out in terms of everything we have to put in place to make it work practically, and happiness that we are beating the odds and will one day in the not-too-distant future be waking up together every morning.

I fell in love with the man who offered me a summer sublet. I really needed to get out of Ohio and back home to Michigan. He and I didn't mean to cause so much upheaval and distress. It's been really hard to balance moving back to my home state with working two jobs and beginning a very serious relationship. We are now engaged. I do get strength through us being together, however, and he has really changed the quality of my life. Before he and I got together I hadn't been with someone in almost two years. I hadn't been sleeping with people either. I am grateful that we came together. I am scared of the future, still. I wonder a lot of the time if I am a serious monogamist or if that's what I'm choosing because even if it isn't the most natural state for me, it's the one that will bring me the most happiness. We are getting married July 26, 2015. I can't tell you how bizarre that sentence looks. UNBELIEVABLE BUT SO GOOD.

My father-in-law died, and it made me aware of how precious my parents are to me, and how devastated I will be to lose them.

Dad got cancer. It was unexpected. Our lives were turned upside down. Priorities changed. I discovered my true friends and support system. Life became about him and getting him better. Sacrifices were made from the three of us. During his time in the hospital I learned so much about him that I never knew. We did his genealogy. My dad changed so much physically that I don't recognize him. I want to remember him before he got cancer. I feel like the hourglass was flipped and so it makes me want to treasure every moment from now on.

I really enjoyed an evening out with my dad this year. He and I went to see Roberta Flack at a local casino. I had been pestering him to spend time just the two of us and we were never able to make it happen. I'd begun to feel he didn't want to make the effort. We have a really tough time connecting. But he invited me to this concert and I was thrilled. It took awhile, but he really let go of everything outside - he's been very very stressed with work and family and it was great to see him relax. At the end of the show, he said he really needed that and forgot how much he enjoyed live music. I'd like to make more of that happen this year. I felt very grateful for the time with him. Later, reflecting with my sister, we came to call this his cutest self. He can be very difficult to access and relate with, but he loves musicals, music, and acapella. So we agreed to commit more time to get him into his cutest self and to enjoy him when he's there. It felt really great to find a framework for bonding with him.

I finally decided to make a big change and go on a radical diet. I didn't think that I would have been able to achieve what I've achieved so far. In some ways one change works to radiate change in so many different areas. I'm inspired that I have such willpower to accomplish things. Hopefully this iron will can see me through the achievement of my dreams.

I finished my first year of graduate school. While it is not my habit to start things that I do not finish, I still felt incredibly proud and grateful that I had reached that milestone. My journey to graduate school was not traditional and not easy, but it felt right. It was entering a phase in my life when I started taking my own life by the reigns, and this accomplishment helped cement my confidence.

I built the chicken coop and run. It consumed my time and my thoughts every weekend and sometimes during the weeks as well. It cost a lot of money, and I learned a lot, developed new skills and it occupied my thinking and used all of my disposable energy. I am grateful to have a good home for my chicken friends. I feel proud of my accomplishment. I don't feel relieved per se because maintaining the coop and keeping the chickens safe and healthy is still work. And I appreciate the chickens. They bring me eggs and they bring us joy.

I was diagnosed with a stomach problem that I thought was taken care of when I had my bariatric sleeve surgery in 2011. I was very stressed out when I heard I had gastrioparesis. I had to be put on a pill which I had to purchase from another country since it is not regulated in the USA. now several months later I am still not sure it is working because my previous problems and still effecting me and I might need that third and final surgery where most of my stomach is cut out of me. I am having another test done in October to see what is going on in my esophagus and then the doctors will decide the course of action to take. I am Resentful that this problem was not resolved in that stomach surgery in 2011 when I was told it would be.

One of my children was erroneously diagnosed with a disease. I spent many weeks researching various options and insisted on a second opinion at a top notch research university. The doctor was wonderful--he met with us for over 75 minutes and went through every symptom with my daughter. He told us he was doubtful she had the disease, but did the necessary blood work anyway. Afterwards, I felt so grateful to know that she was not as sick as previously thought. I was also proud of myself for insisting on a second opinion, listening to my intuition and working very hard at my job so we all have good medical benefits.

This past year I have lost my brother Billly at way too young an age. It's affect has been that flowers do not smell as sweet and the jubilations that I have felt in the past have been muted. I am not quite sure how long this will last, but with other life cycle events always just around the corner, I do hope that at some point the pain will subside.

During the past year, I began working at a state agency, switching from non-profit consulting work (working mostly at home, alone) to a regular 8-5 job in a cubicle. While there are many challenges in my new position (long commute! bureaucracy! some incompetent co-workers!) I LOVE my new job. I feel very well supported and appreciated by my supervisors, and I feel like my work is intellectually challenging, interesting, and important. I am thrilled to be having such a positive experience in a position I had never before considered, and this professional fulfillment is bringing me such gratitude, confidence, contentment, stability, and joy in life.

So the big memory of this year is the collapse of my marriage. The security I have always felt that we would endure anything is gone. My foundation under which I and everything in my world operated on is gone. So I now work from this place of uncertainty and it sucks. I absolutely hate it. I hate how I feel. I hate how I react. But I am embracing that this is where we are and that we must move forward. So I have to let go. I have no control. And we'll see if she decides to recommit to me.

I purchased a house out in the desert, and liquidated a primary retirement vehicle to do it. I am pleased as the bank were not earning me interest worth even discussing, and the peace and quite that I get from the desert is priceless.

I completed the preparation of my childhood home for sale. My wife and I made several trips to spend time there, sorting out 50 years and 2 continents worth of stuff (my parents were immigrants). Most of the job fell to me because my sister lives afar and is helping to care for our mother who lives near her in assisted living. The accumulation of memories, in so many objects, memorabilia, jewelry, furniture, photos, written records and old recordings was, at times overwhelmingly sad. At other times it led to laughter, sweet reminiscense, and an immense sense of gratitude to my parents for having such an incredible ability to create a sense of family for us in this place where we grew up. The very walls of the house, with all of the improvements lovingly crafted by my father, the trees and shrubs once so small when my parents planted them, the kitchen where my mother canned and froze and cooked a hot dinner each and every day, and the familiar views from each and every window and door, all served to intensify each and every emotion. The gratitude was laced with sadness, because my father chose to leave this world in this very house, 23 years before my mother did, and never got to see how tall his trees became. And it elicited, for the first and only time in my life, a sadness at not having had children of my own to whom I could pass some of the most precious keepsakes unearthed, and share all of the sweet and rough and incredible stories of our family.

My neighbor, a good man who works hard, decided to build a fence and gate off the easement which belongs to both of us between the properties we mutually own. The fence and gate are actually on my property which was on the verge of being sold to a woman, who I believed was the right person to pass my property on to. Larry and I had talked about our easement road years earlier when I still lived there. I have rented the property since moving for work and live about 40 miles away. Larry brought the road up in conversation one day, saying "you know Marian the easement road starts on your property and ends on mine." I said, "yes Larry it is the easement for both of us and I hope that is not a problem for you." At the time it seemed there was agreement that we mutually shared the road. When my renter said she had measured the frontal footage and found his fence and gate on my property I decided it was time to have another conversation with Larry. He said he could not talk to me, he was driving, and passed the phone to his wife who stated "talk to our attorney". The impact of this experience, which continues today to be unresolved, started with extreme anxiety, hurt, feeling victimized, and helpless. At first I thought simply, I will just let him have the property and easement road and take that off the sale of the property as a loss. I realized then that I was afraid of the conflict, of going through the legal process, of drawing a line in the sand, so to say and defend my rights as a property owner--not to have me property and easement taken from me by my neighbor. I was also very concerned about the monetary cost. I searched my mind for how I might have harmed Larry and his wife Sally. How they might feel justified in doing what they were doing? I realized this was not about me, it was about Larry and his wife. I had not done anything "wrong" to "deserve" bad treatment. It was simply life. At the same time I also realized I would not just roll over and let the property go. I needed to stand up for what was legally mine, not be bullied, not be cowed. I made the decision to work through the legal process to defend my property and access rights. In the end I would still have a tax right off on the sale of the property and realized I had enough money, more than enough to move forward. (not back). The impact of this event continues to help me in some interesting ways. I have found I can cope with spikes of anxiety and a constant thread of concern that accompanies this event through the days. I remember to be grateful for the fact I have two properties, that I am rich beyond measure by the majority world standards. I continue to hope there is room for understanding and mediation. I meditate and pray that through this, new growth, insight and meaning will emerge and that in the end this experience, as painful as it is at times, is helping me overcome fear, anxiety and an old pattern of feeling victimized.

My most significant experience this year has been finding out I was pregnant with twins. We had been trying for a few months and having troubles. It was a very emotional time for us, especially me. All those horrible feelings disappeared as soon as the nurse told me we were expecting. Then to find out a couple of weeks later we were having twins, wow. We were so surprised! There was a chance given the medication I was on, but you still never think it's going to happen that way. I'm now 27 weeks pregnant and loving every minute of it (or trying to). I absolutely cannot wait to meet our little ones!!

Things finally came to a head with my 18 year old son. He is a wonderful kid with many gifts - but he has growing up to do. He has taking things from us, bringing drugs into the house, not attending school any more... and so it was time for him to move on. That sounds simpler than it was. It was a lot of rounds of trying our best, trying different things, building up our resentment and frustration even while being fueled by our love and concern for him. It hit a crisis point. Now things seem to have stabilized. He has a place to live. He seems to have cut back on the drugs. He is working and we've accepted that high school will have to be something he comes back to when he is ready. I'm relieved, still worried, and maybe more detached than I want to be because of the emotional burnout on this one.

A significant experience...why is this hard to think of? Archiving my grandmother's travel journal? Weaning my third and getting pregnant again? Renovating the kitchen? Going to the Veronica Mars premier? Conferences, general witnessing of the kids development? Going on sabbatical? Getting all this sleep? None of these seem significant enough but they are all lovely, and I'm very grateful to have had the past year I have had. Oh: maybe the dreadful fatigue and exhaustion in the spring semester, during the first trimester - March, April, May. Those months have an ugly tinge in my memory because it was just too much, and I don't know what I might have don't differently. I'm kind of resentful that there's no solution. Oh, I kind of resent last Thanksgiving at my brother's house, too. But whatever.

Exactly a year ago I left a job of 10 years with very little net in place. This has been a year of exploration, frustration, freefalling fear, friendship building, studying, relaxing, sleeping in, and discovering how much more to life their is when you take yourself out of the system and work towards your dreams. Its scary as hell but I have a taste of freedom I'll fight my ass off to keep for the rest of my life.

i have decided to look for a new job. feeling anxious about a job to the point that I am not creative, do not have a personal life, get only negative feedback from a director who knows very well that he likes pats on the back but cannot give them is just too much. I started a job search in August and had a new job within 3 weeks. I was offered the job the day after I interviewed and it is in a city in which I wanted to live! So, now I am house-hunting to find a place QUICKLY, because I have 3 weeks to get there. I haven't even given notice at my current job. So, it's a mixed bag regarding my feelings. I think that I am feeling relieved, grateful, resentful, anxious, hopeful, happy, angry, sad, and I am going to miss my neighbors and the few friends that I have here (another reason I am moving- not many friends after almost 4 years). I am looking forward to healing my very wounded confidence.

I gave birth to my son at home. I feel grateful for the blessings of my children, my husband who was by my side to support and encourage me throughout the pregnancy and birth, and for my strong healthy body that enabled me to experience the miracle of childbirth and motherhood. The experience inspires me to believe in my own strength and take on new challenges.

My father in law passed away about 10 months ago. I am still processing it as he was the first person who I had weekly contact with that passed away suddenly. I didn't realize how much it affected me - and I try to push down those feelings as I want to be there for my husband. I feel as though if I am strong, he can be free to share his emotions.

I am now taking medications to help me with some emotional issues that have long plagued me. It is helping a lot, I think, and I am grateful for the relief they have thus far brought.

I lost my roommate of 3 years as a roommate and a friend when she stole a large amount of money from me and my other roommate. It was very hurtful and caused a lot of pain, sadness, and anger. But I'm still grateful for the friendship we did have, and that I have been able to move on from it.

The most significant experience I have had in the past year was sitting bedside to my grandmother with my family for two weeks as she died and then attending her funeral. Watching someone I hold so closely to my heart go through the stages of dying and then participating in a Jewish funeral where the family members literally use shovels to bury their loved one was incredibly profound. It changed me on a fundamental level. Never before have I seen death so up close and personal. The way she sweat, stopped drinking, stopped talking, stopped moving, the ways her eyes changed, the way the skin of her neck began shifting underneath the weight of her tiny Jewish star necklace, a necklace she has not taken off for 60 years... It was agonizing and traumatizing to watch her desperately hang onto life even though she also wanted desperately to let go- but just didn't ever know how to let go of anything. I felt relieved when she finally passed because it lifted an unbearable weight of pain, anxiety and anticipation from my entire family, but this brought an unspeakable kind of loss that I have never felt before. She was a vital member of our family. But I also felt comforted because, with this, I truly began believing in god. She was seeing my deceased grandfather towards the end; she was seeing family members and friends who passed on several years earlier. Around this time, I was reading "Proof of Heaven" and that completely solidified my belief in something much greater than ourselves--but a force of which we are still a part. It brought great comfort to know that when she finally passed, she truly was out of all the physical, spiritual and emotional pain that she spent her entire life consumed by. Watching her in pain and reflecting for weeks about her life, her sadness, and her experiences made me finally decide to leave the classroom. Getting thyroid cancer two years ago planted the seed, but my grandmother's death finally made me realize that I want to move beyond teaching in the classroom, a craft I have spent 9 years cultivating and honing. But I am ready to truly tap into what I am capable of as a healer in a different way--as a counselor, therapist, social worker. I am going back to school now and entering the vast unknown to see what comes next. I don't know if I would have done that--at this point in time-- had my beautiful, beautiful grandmother's life not ended the way it did.

My first child was born a month ago. I'm mostly tired, a lot of the time. He's hard work, but worth it. Every so often I'm hit by the huge responsibility of it all. He's on my lap as I type this, he's amazing and beautiful, and I can't quite believe he's ours.

I attended two noteworthy conferences/workshops. The first was Science Online Together, in Raleigh NC in February, and the second was SciCoder, in NYC in June. I paid mostly out-of-pocket to attend both of these, which wouldn't have been possible without the support of my husband. At Science Online Together, I met so many amazing science communicators, including people I had previously only known via twitter. At SciCoder, I learned tons of new computer-related skills that are proving very useful for my research, and got to socialize with some awesome fellow grad students in the "food mecca" that is NYC. Even though these conferences were extremely different in scope and audience, for me they complemented each other. They gave me a glimpse of what my post-grad-school professional life could look like: a healthy dose of science outreach and communication mixed with just enough computational problem solving to keep things interesting.

My aunt told my mom she was going to pay for all of my graduation stuff. I am very grateful for this because I don't think that I was going to be able to pay for it all. I am inspired by this.

My dragon, triton, passed on. It makes me feel relieved. Sometimes, when I think about it, I feel guilt, regret. I wish I had appreciated and taken advantage of his presence more when he was alive. I think about all the moments I took his life for granted. It makes me feel grateful for the times I can appreciate what I have, now.

I went to Europe for the first time. It was an eye-opening experience. I have to say that I felt strange being their since I was such a foreigner, but traveling gave me a new outlook on life.

My youngest son graduated from college in May and obtained a good job. My wife and I have now put 2 kids through college, and they both have good jobs. I'm grateful, blessed, and tired. Most people's kids haven't done well. I'm proud of them and my wife who foot most of the bill, so I could focus on retirement saving.

My boyfriend proposed to me Friday, May 30th. It was also my last day at a job I had quit because I hated it so much. I was surprised when he proposed and a bit too overwhelmed to be as happy as I wanted to be. I'm relieved that we are engaged because we had talked about getting married for a while and it was starting to feel like he had changed his mind. I keep reminding myself that it is significant that he initiated such a big step in our relationship and it shows how much he cares even though I am still not happy about how or when it happened.

My father passed away in July of 2013. It made for a very difficult year. Thank God for the Jewish process of grieving. I really found as I went the year that I went from grief to acceptance to honoring my father with a renewed energy and enthusiasm for putting myself out there and bringing my gifts to those that could use them.

There were several: 1) Called the Wellness Exchange, with the inspiration provided by Winston Tracy. It's been a long process, but very much needed and getting the help that I'm looking for. Grateful for that. 2) Talked to Emily and Candice about why I called Wellness. Super grateful for them. A little bit of a relief because I was surrounded by people who understood me a little more. 3) Got my first internship. SUPER relieved about that. It's definitely helped getting the ball to roll. 4) Inspired by last year's staff. Grateful for their open arms last year when I introduced myself. 5) Constantly resentful of the mental conflict that I go through on a daily basis.

My oldest daughter has started Kindergarten. It has been a stressful topic in our household, due to my wife's anxiety about our daughter being in the care of others. The experience has been great for our daughter, stressful and conflict ridden for my wife, and I have mixed emotions on a daily basis. I am grateful for the opportunity to see my daughter overcome challenges and grow every day! But I am saddened by my wife's struggle with the experience, and the lack of joy she is able to derive from it.

My father died after a lengthy illness, Alzheimer's, and I hoped I'd be relieved. I was sure I would be relieved. But I wasn't. All I was left with was feeling shitty, having regrets and generally wondering what I could have done better.

I went to a concert alone this year. I'd never been to a concert alone before. My parents were shocked and obviously vaguely embarrassed on my behalf. It was one of the best days of my year. I took the Metro into town to avoid the stress of parking. I was wearing clothes that made me feel good about myself, not clothes that I was wearing to impress or attract anyone else. I read Anna Karenina on the train in. As I walked from the station to the venue, music played through my headphones and I watched the people and cars on the city streets. I found my way to my seat alone and found myself lacking any of the self-consciousness I might ordinarily worry about. I shared a friendly conversation with the attendees in the seats near me, but felt no obligation to them. When the concert started, I could fall into the music and the performance and feel submerged in all of the internal memories and feelings inexorably linked to what I was hearing. Not once did I have to worry about whether my companion was enjoying themselves. On the way home, I walked fast and let myself revel in the euphoria that always follows a powerful performance. I had no opportunity or need to explain it. The entire experience was exactly what I might have hoped and expected my life to be when I was a teenager. I don't think my teenage self had all the answers. But as an adult with lots of responsibilities which regularly force me to apply time and energy to things which I am not necessarily passionate about, I felt relieved and exhilarated to have a whole evening where I felt like the fiery enthusiasm and overwrought loves of my youth had not been left behind. All that I was, I still am, though perhaps tempered into something more full and complete.

I met Jones

Purchasing my first rental property and moving in with Sarah. For the duplex I am very grateful to have the ability to purchase it. I'm relieved because it is one step closer to my long term retirement plan. I'm inspired to pursue more investment moves to speed up retirement. Retiring at age 40 would be awesome! Meeting Sarah I am grateful, relieved and inspired to make our relationship great. She is an awesome lady and I think we have great potential to grow and have an awesome and successful relationship if we both pay attention to each other.

Changed my diet and lost weight. Increased my exercise regime. Grateful, relieved and inspired.

I can't think of any more signifiant an experience than being a mother. My daughter turned a year old in February of 2014 and most of my life has been dedicated to caring for her. I felt more secure in this second year of mothering because we know each other better, we're getting more sleep (for the most part!), my daughter is more independent and her personality is really shining through. And what I like most about these changes, is that I really like her! I like who my daughter is I feel happy to get to know her. She is social, happy, healthy, curious. I am grateful and relieved and inspired. I'm not resentful but I get frustrated when I'm tired. And I'm always tired!

On March 12, 2014, I was hospitalized for a major skiing accident. I compressed my T6 vertabrae, and exploded my T10 vertabrae. In addition to these injuries, I cracked open my skull and broke 6 of my ribs. While in the hospital I came to learn of 2 other people who had been removed from the same mountain on the same day. They were in the rooms adjacent to my own, and were in similar accidents. The first guy was paralyzed from the waist down, the second could no longer remember his own name. How had I been so lucky? I had to endure immense physical pain, physical therapy, and had 6 titanium rods inserted into my spinal column, narrowly missing the nerves that would have caused paralysis. Only 6 weeks after shattering all these bones in my body I was not only up and moving, I was biking 40 miles a day and rock climbing after 8 weeks. Where as the same guys on the same mountain on the same day would never walk again, and the other would never remember any of the happiest moments of his life, or even his own wife's name. Why had I been spared unlike these other people? I was relieved that I would suffer no long term injuries, but why was I different?

Quitting my job of seven years. I feel relieved to have left a toxic environment and inspired to explore what comes next.

This was a year of loss, but also post traumatic growth. Saying goodbye to our old dog was hard and sad, but seemed to fit into the natural order of things, it made sense that a 15yo dog dies, and was a great catalyst for exploring my own ideas about death and grieving and starting those conversations with our daughter, who was 2.5 at the time. Learning that our baby had died in utero was hard. A real shock, unexpected. I was glad we'd had those conversations a week before about our dog, as I couldn't have given her such thoughtful responses after the miscarriage. That grief was so much more complicated and difficult and all encompassing. But all of this has helped shape who I am. I now feel less afraid of death. More aware of how it features in everyone's lives. More able to be present for grieving friends.

My husband had open heart surgery. I am grateful to him for having decided to go through with it; to the surgeon who was excellent; to the hospital staff who treated him so well; to his friends and colleagues who followed his progress with care and concern. I am relieved that I mostly supported him in all the right ways. And I am inspired that he has more than recovered because of his amazing discipline in following all the recommendations of all those who directed him.

My daughter was born and it has been the most stressful, significant and joyous event of my life. The weird dichotomy of pure exhaustion, terror put against the pure glee she brings is something I haven't had before. It's very surreal and strange. I wouldn't trade it for anything, but at the same time it has messed up almost everything :-)

So many...finding out my husband was not faithful to me. It has been the single greatest disappointment that I have ever experienced, and it has changed the core of who I am and how I see the world. Something good and innocent died inside of me and I don't know how to get it back. I have chosen forgiveness and I feel blessed to be on that path, blessed to have my husband, because he is a very good man who made a horrendous mistake. We are in a good place now and I feel like we have healed a lot. I still struggle with trust but that is to be expected. I am no longer consumed by anguish and pain over this (at least not daily) but it took the better part of the year to start moving past that. What I still struggle with is the change inside of me. I can feel that something shifted and I do not know how to go back. "Don't ask me to tell you stories/the way I told them then/ I've seen bloodshed/ with a twisted grin." My brother passing away...I have guilt over our strained relationship for the last few years and my inability to reach out to him and offer help. I believe firmly that his choices and the consequences thereof were his alone, but there is always the nagging question of whether or not I tried hard enough to reach him. I am sharing this in the forum in the hopes that if someone reading this is suffering (or knows someone who is) from opiate addiction that you get help immediately. I received a huge promotion at work that leaves me tired, frustrated, discouraged, and happy and blessed all at the same time. It came on the heels of my husband's cheating...and it saved me. I have a job I never could have dreamed of in a field I have always been enamored with. I effect real change in this company, and ultimately in the lives of the people in my community.

Okay this is like the exact same answer as last year. JON AND I ARE ENGAGED TO BE MARRIED. I am excited! I am grateful! I am overwhelmed! I am a cliche - I know at least six other peers also getting married in the next year. Mostly, I am filled with love to know this man and I are on the same path of supporting each other, growing together, merging families, and cultivating love. WHEN I NEXT READ THIS WE'LL BE MARRIED!

I finished treatment for non-hodgkin's lymphoma and am grateful for the care I have been given by friends, familyy and professionals, and relieved to be getting clear scans. Mostly I am glad that I now understand illness as a part of life. People keep asking me if I am "Back to normal" -- illness is as normal as the rest of it.

My friend Leilani died. It was a slowly building blow to me. Once the initial shock of it wore off her loss and the panic and sorrow that surrounded it tried to consume me. I have had older family members die, I've had fellow classmates that I didn't really know die. This was the first time someone very close to me died completely unexpectedly and it was heartbreaking. I think what stung the most at the beginning was just how sudden and brutal it seemed. To have talked to her not even two weeks before, to be setting up plans to meet up and catch up with our busy life; and then she was gone. You are quickly reminded of just how brutally short life really can be. Then of course I was terrified for her children, to have three boys left to figure out this world without her glowing love and happiness and support was a stone in the pit of my stomach that I could not shake. Of course it also reminded me of my own son, still so young, and what would happen to him if my time was up so soon as well. These are thoughts that keep you up at night as a parent and to question this of myself and my family because of my friend's death was doubly panic inducing. After that she was everywhere. A movie I was working on, songs on the radio, mementos I'd find from her, seeing her name in contact lists. For months she haunted me, trailed me, and I couldn't tell if I should be happy about that or continue to be sad. As the months pressed on it would get easier, and then I'd have a bad day and just lay in bed crying, thinking about her, about the loss of all she had to give to this world, of all the things I didn't get to tell her, of all the memories we won't be able to build together. She was the sole reason that I was able to struggle through my hardest days with my son. I would feel like such a failure and want to give up and I would think, "If Leilani could do this with three boys, on her own, with even less support - you can do this." I will never be able to tell her that, and even though I know that she knows now (in heaven, at peace, whatever you'd like to call it)...it still stabs at my heart when I think about it. Almost nine months later she came to me in a dream. It was her and her three sons. It was so real and I remember sobbing as I tried to ask her, "How are you here? How are you doing this?!" She just smiled, her beautiful smile - looking so vibrant and hugged me tight. I closed my eyes, still sobbing, and when I pulled back, she was gone. I have to believe it was really her. I have to believe it was her telling me that she knows everything I wanted to say, and that I'm going to be fine, and that she's at peace, and watching us all. I felt so much lighter after that dream. The heavy stone in my stomach, the sobbing at night, the stabbing in my heart they all started to lessen. It doesn't make remembering her loss any less painful, but at least now there is a shimmer of hope in all the darkness that grief can create.

I got engaged to my best friend and the love of my life. I am eternally grateful, my heart feels secure and enriched and I am inspired to accomplish even greater heights.

I started an excercise program with a trainer. This is good for me - my health, feeling of well-being. As I grow older, this is more important to me. Escpecially since I wasn't able to do yoga. I have to take responsibility for my body, as best I can.

Finally got my Associates Degree after ten years. Relief, a weight lifted, and the new burden of the next steps: get into nursing school, find out how to pay for it. Also realized how burnt out I am at work, and arranged to find new work after ten years at bedside. Relief, terror, determination. Also first year with Robin, trying to navigate her partners, preferences without bullying or caving. Also began CompTIA, preparing for getting into new industry and work in pursuit of Tyson's quality of life.

I have had to do So Much More during this past year than I had to do in the 37 years Joe and I lived together. We had worked out a fair division of labor: I vacuumed certain rooms, he vacuumed certain others. I cleaned Our bathroom. He cleaned the second bathroom. We both loaded the dishwasher. He turned it on. He put the garbage out. He did the taxes. I paid my share. He shopped for most household items like toilet paper, paper towels, detergents...In the last 16 months, I am doing Everything, including all the paperwork he seemed to enjoy, and that I always detested. I've been running just to stay in place...The fatigue is new. I WANT to resent it all, and sometimes I will just weep in frustration over the turn my life has taken. On the other hand, I have something Joe does not have: life...with life I am enabled in many ways, not least among them: the ability and vocal wherewithal to Complain. I know I am lucky to be alive to be doing things I detest, and in the process lucky to be finding out that I CAN do many things I never dreamed of doing.

Our second miscarriage. It was..hard. No easier than the first. It set up more of a discussion about our marriage and what we would want in a donor egg mother.

Well, I got engaged at the end of September 2013. So, it's almost been a year. We got engaged, broke up almost 3 months later, got back together, and now we're engaged again. We were forced to face the darkness within ourselves and help each other heal. It's been quite a process. There are days where I feel like I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be. Then, there are other days where I have a challenging time just being in a commitment relationship in general. I feel grateful at times and resentful in others. There are times I am inspired and times I feel drained and dull. I think the most important lesson that I am learning is that I have to make myself happy. He isn't going to do it for me and to count on him for all my happiness isn't fair. It's something I need to remind myself of often. Currently, we are looking for a camper for our hunting trip, a house to move into together, and may even start planning the wedding soon.

My husband and I celebrated our first wedding anniversary in July. We took a week-long road trip to travel all 469 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Our trip had a rocky beginning due to a serious argument on the day of our anniversary, but we recovered and had a marvelous time from then on. Because of the manner in which my husband showed me that he forgave me for my part in the argument, I was able to see clearly how much he loves me, how much I need his grace, and how deeply I love this man. We thoroughly enjoyed the magnificent scenery, our foray into camping together (which I happily discovered I LOVE) , and our return to our home. I am very thankful that we had this time to be together and to learn to love one another more dearly.

I found my father, who died about a year before I first started looking for him (30 years ago). So many questions finally answered, and so many more taking their place now. I worked hard to cut through the lies and secrets, and I'm proud of that, but there's also grief in realizing I'll never get to know him or his side of the family. Still, I'm glad I can pass the truth down to my children. That means the most to me.

I didn´t get a job

Not much comes to mind, but one reoccurring thing has made me stop & take notice & try to be smarter... I've seen at least one (probably in actuality many more) significant car accidents & just recently I ran a stop sign because I was distracted (it was very dark, but I pass through this intersection almost every day, so there was no reason for me to not remember the sign -- I was distracted & paying more attention to doing something on my phone than I was driving. I'm feeling & I've felt this way for a while that I'm being given clues & opportunities to pay more attention while driving. That if I revert to my distracted driving habits, it could have serious implications. I try to do better every day, but I still very much need to work on it -- I need to renew my efforts EVERY day in order to really learn from these signs!!

I am grateful that I was finally able to legally marry my wife (after marriage equality passed in my state). I moved to a new state and left the only life I knew. I dealt with many months of adjusting to my new city and it's been harder to feel settled in than I expected. I'm grateful that I had the guts to make such a significant change and that I (eventually) stepped out of my comfort zone. My new city is feeling more like home and I know that practicing patience (a task for me!) is the only approach I can take.

I met Susan on Match.com. After a couple of years with no intimate friendships, I didn't realize how much I missed it. I'm working on this relationship to keep it going. She is a wonderful person and I want this to work for us.

My daughter went to college, and then texted that she was enjoying it, I was very relieved and grateful. When she then texted me "l'Shana Tova" on Rosh Hashanah, I was amazed, thrilled and overcome with joy.

Many significant experiences within the last year! But one of the highlights was my time in Australia. That was a welcome energizing experience where I fell in love with the country, colleagues, and work. It was inspiring and rejuvenating.

My trip to Israel followed by the rockets and mortars sent into Israel and the war in Gaza. Life in Israel felt so normal; along with visiting some of the usual spots we hung out with our son, ate all sorts of food in some hole in the wall places and some higher end restaurants, hung out at the beach, etc. We also stayed in people's apartments, in-law suites and cottages. So when I heard that something landed in Eilat, or there was a siren in Jerusalem, I imagined the people I knew there. I felt body slammed. I am grateful for my time there and really sad about the violence and hatred and anti-semitism around the world.

Obviously, it's our move to Seattle. I am grateful for the welcome we've received from our church and our family and friends here. I am grateful for the new friends, as well. It's a blessing to have gotten the boys into an excellent school without any hassle. It's another blessing to have found a rental house across the street from old, dear friends. I would say I am still in the overwhelmed stage when it comes to adjusting to life here, in large part due to my job.

I was a jr high camp counselor for the first time, that was lovely. I'm very proud of that. I accomplished my first year of community college, that was rough. I started going to therapy again, and then stopped. I made new friends. I addressed my mental health issues. "our biggest mistake is pretending that all of this is normal and not accepting the beautiful insane surreal tragedy that is earthbound existence."

My father died in May. His illness and impending death colored my life from last July on. I spent as much time as I could with him, trying to help him enjoy the time he had. The rest of my family did as well. I'm grateful for him and how he loved and treated everyone. And I'm saddened as much as I'm grateful .

I went to a summer program at brown, I took college courses, but it didn't feel like it was an advanced program, it felt like I was taking the right classes at the right pace, I was learning. Unlike middle and high school courses, apparently college courses are relaxing.

The most significant experience that I can recall this past year is when I was drugged at a frat party during orientation week. I am grateful for my friends, who took care of me and made sure that I was safe. I am thankful that I was not raped while I was in that altered state, and I am scared that someone at my school would have the audacity to purposefully try to take advantage of someone. 5 Girls in my sorority house were sick that night. Clearly there was something going on at that house.

I ran the NYC Marathon!! 11/3/2013 I felt connected to my past in a whole new way, running for Grandma Jo. I felt proud representing my family in such a grand event. I felt incredibly grateful for the people who came out of the woodwork and showed their support in so many ways. I was inspired by the people of NYC who cheered us on. I felt relieved when it was over although I felt a bit empty as well because it was such an amazing thing to look forward to and to center my life around... and then it was over. I also hurt a lot. A lot a lot. I also met one of the most amazing people that I now have in my life.. and I think of the marathon as one of the building blocks of our early relationship! Unexpected and amazing things came from that day.

My father passed on and its affect came in seeing how splintered and uncaring my family was. It left me resentful and worried about my own future. If I get sick or find myself unable to care for myself who would be there for me? Certainly not any of these people. It's pushed me to want to have a family of my own, one of my own choosing

I went on a trip to Israel. It was wonderful and inspiring. It makes me want to travel more.

I'm surprised to say that it was difficult to think of a "significant" experience that happened in the last year. It surprises me because I feel like I'm constantly working on my own self progress and I guess I've just assumed that "significant" things are always happening, but when asked that question it really makes you reflect on what that means. I suppose I'll write about a recent work situation that's made me realize a little more about myself and how to not take things personally in the world but rather uphold the inner strength one possess through negative reviews or evaluations from ones boss or critics. With new management taking over at work recently I've lost my great schedule and feel completely like my hard work and integrity for the job has been completely overlooked. On top of that we recently were evaluated by the new management and I was evaluated as completely average, nothing more, nothing less. I strongly disagree with their evaluation. I feel like I do my job often with more integrity than my co-workers, rarely (if never) cutting corners or skipping designated projects. I know that I am low drama and easy to work with and be around for my peers and our guests. My evaluation did not reflect this which at first really hurt me but I've started to accept now. I think this is just an example of how in life we aren't always recognized for our hard work and who we are. Though it can be difficult to experience this reality in life I think it's a valuable lesson about not taking things personally and to value and love oneself for our work and achievements however small.

I was accepted into Northwestern early decision on December 12, 2013. I was incredibly nervous beforehand, more nervous than I can remember being for almost anything in a long time, but the moment of elation just afterwards is something I hope I never forget. I literally yelped with joy. Now, nearly two weeks into my freshman year at Northwestern, I'm happy to say that I feel like I couldn't have made a better decision than to apply and come here. I'm incredibly grateful; at the time of acceptance, incredibly relieved; and now that I'm finally here, I think inspired and motivated are two very accurate ways to describe my state of being. I look forward to what the immediate future holds for me. Each day is genuinely exciting.

Hmmm, a significant experience that occurred within the past year. I would say moving my younger sister in with me. She wasn't growing where she was in Georgia. In a fit "Crap, I just need her to to calm down and stop crying", I invited her to live with me here in AZ. Overall, it was the right decision. I feel as if I gave her the same opportunity my Gramps gave me when I was in a bad place. I needed an out, a change, and he offered me that by allowing me to live with him in California. I offered her the same proposition a year ago. Since then, she 's blossomed. I'm so very proud of her and the strides she's taken as a mother, a woman and an individual. It's proof, in my book, that people can and do change. Sometimes you need a change of space and scenery. Sometimes you have to remove yourself from the reach of other people. When that happens, and you believe you CAN change your own life, you do it. She did it.

I helped spearhead a group to create a Human Library in Long Beach. It was something I'd been wanting to do for awhile, and I was surprised how well it went. I picked good collaborators and the event was pretty organized. We got lots of good feedback about the event. People seemed to enjoy it. I'm so happy that I was able to help make this happen. It was fun to watch people interact with others during the Human Library. I love helping create community and connection. It made me feel incredibly content, satisfied and confident. This confidence has made me feel like I can create other projects, so I've been reaching out (and one person even reached out to me!) to do things that inspired me. Right now I'm working with someone to create a workshop series that focuses on breaking down a person's life into different categories, and getting people to reflect on their values and goals, as well as evaluate how they got there and how they can get where they want to go. In addition, I'm trying to create two art projects: one that involves recreating family photos to highlight family resemblance and show how many people it took to create one person. The other is guerrilla art projects throughout Long Beach. Both of these ideas make me feel excited and passionate. I'm learning a lot about myself from doing these projects, and would like to continue doing things that excite me.

I was recently promoted, It's very new, but certainly the most stressful, soul-searching things I did this year. I felt blessed and honored to be appreciated, doubtful of my abilities, sad to be moving on from something I know and love, and excited to grow in the next year.

My friend Chad Novak took his own life. I was and remain in shock, desolate at times. It leaves me with a hole in my heart. He was 42 and had two young children. Chad became a pillar of my life, especially, professionally. We were colleagues as well as friends. I will miss him.

Began selling larger pieces of art, both originals and reproductions. Am amazed at continuiing positive response - and most grateful. My Allderdice class is really behind me and is purchasing - WAHOO! I actually created my own website for Joyful Art Expressions. Not quite ready for prime time viewing, but have given link to many and keep getting many compliments - rave-type reviews. Thank you, Great Spirit. Yes am inspired by being shown so clearly that I am on the right path for me at this time.

My teenage daughter recently - past 6 months - starting talking about her feelings vis a vis being adopted. Actually, she wasn't talking about them as much as she was using them as ammunition: If she didn't get what she wanted, she would tell me that 'if she had stayed with (birth mother) then she would have her iPhone 3/4/5, be living in a McMansion, never have to wear spandex under her all-to-short skirts or shorts, enjoy a Starbucks Frappacino - CAFFEINATED - every morning on her way to school and be driving in a 2014 model vehicle'. This went on for a while, until one day, after a particularly emphatic conflict - during which I told her that while I understood that her nasty behaviour might be standard operating procedure for a young teen girl, it still stank and was was putting both my feet down - she asked me "...if you had known what kind of teenager I was going to be, would you have adopted me anyway." "The answer is yes, my love"... I cannot empathize with My Girl, can only sympathize. But that moment brought home to me the depths of what she might be feeling and it resonated. I am grateful for that moment. Inspired by that moment, to get both of us into a situation where she can freely talk about her feelings, I can gather tools to work with her AND maintain my own personal integrity and we can work together to make our lives a bit less volatile. Now I am just a bit anxious about what is to come...but my love for my daughter, and my belief in her worth as a person ameliorates that somewhat. What will be will be.

I found out my husband cheated on me, a few days before our 19th anniversary. I am only grateful to know I wasn't going crazy - there really is a lot wrong between us. And it is good to know that my kids' troubles from this last year may be in part from this trouble between us. I am angry, hurt, shocked, grieving, accepting, confused, frustrated - sometimes all on the same day. It's been 3 months, nothing really is resolved yet, and its still a rare day that I don't cry at some point. I wish he would decide what direction he wants so I can decide.

This year I was accepted into Teach For America with the early deadline. I won't start until next year so I don't completely know how I feel about it yet. I am currently relieved, because I'm not ready to make a decision about grad school. And I'm terrified because I don't know where I'll be except that I'll be teaching something, somewhere. I was sure about my decision to apply because I interned with the organization and fell in love with the mission of One Day. While applying though, my boyfriend of 3 years and I were sent into a tailspin over what to do about us in the future, because I was bringing the future to us way earlier than normal. I'm grateful for that turmoil though, because now we are in a better place and it's nice to have that figured out and just enjoy my senior year of college, with my vague idea of what the next year will bring. but happy to at least have an outline.

The shooting of Michael Brown and the aftermath affected me pretty dramatically. I guess I hadn't realized how many people refuse to see persistent racism, and I was so repulsed by the victim blaming. I've always enjoyed engaging white people about race, and helping people understand how structural racism works, but I feel so defeated and saddened by the realization that it isn't just ignorance - it's an actual desire to deny the reality of people of color.

I have had a really good year but a really poor month. I continue to be on a professional ride that I don't like. This has made me very resentful. I feel like if I am in a field that I don't really like and if I were this miserable, my hope is I would be making more money. This is causing a lot of stress at home. I can't believe it, but I looked up the suicide clause in my life insurance policy today. Maybe this was me being dramatic? Who knows. Right now, I don't feel good. Taking the long view, it's been a good year - I've made some good strides, but where do I go from here? My answer to this question last year was also very negative. I need change.

My mother passed away in April. It made me feel grateful for my upbringing, sad that my parents' marriage ended so unpleasantly, relieved that my mother died peacefully, in her sleep, and desperate to spend some quality time with my siblings. I planned a road trip with them, on which we visited various places that our parents took us to as children. It was one of the best trips I've ever taken.

Der Moment, als Timo aus der Papiertüte den Quilt zieht, Anne per skype live dabei ist und Michael grinsend das iphone auf mich hält und mir klar wird, dass ALLE MEINE FREUNDE an dieser Decke mitgearbeitet haben und ich so gerührt bin, dass mir die Tränen kommen und ich mich für einen Moment weder zusammenreissen kann noch will. <3

In the last year my son has been away to college and I am--for this first time in 18 years-- beholden for no one. Or at least only beholden to my partner--to whom I do not feel obligated to provide a hot green vegetable every night nor a clean bathroom. I am not sure that I am as grateful as I thought I would be. Thinking about someone's needs before your own is sometimes easier than thinking about what your real needs are.

A hopeful friendship got second rated. She had lost her job. I found her sobbing and with the bottle of booze. I listened and held her space for hours. She said I need to be careful of what I put in emails because her girlfriend was jealous. I was flabbergasted. What had I said? I never intimated? I was simply happy for a new friendship … but it sounded as if this was in jeopardy! I was frightened that I'd be cast away. Then she through me under the bus - not wanting to take credit for my performance - saying I was studying with someone else. I realized how much I needed a friend. How lonely I was. How much I wanted connection. How sad it was that it hadn't happened. Of course I was resentful and hurt - but I moved into being grateful that I was able to turn this away from the other person being wrong and onto me and my unfulfilled needs.

I developed frozen shoulder. At first I was bitter and angry. So much pain! And no one in my family seemed to care or understand, I was shocked at how little they cared! But it has given me a new appreciation for what a working miracle the body ( usually) is, and empathy for those in chronic pain. But it really opened my eyes to how little valued I am in my family.

A little over a year ago, my oldest child moved away to go to college. Of course, I am very proud of him, but this was nothing short of a relief! He was always pretty well behaved, and even as a toddler we got compliments on what good manners he had. With us at home, he was itching for complete independence since around 8-9th grade. He felt he should be allowed to do whatever he wanted, never hear us say "no", no limits, no rules. We still parented in the way we felt best. Having limits that were not arbitrary, but set with purpose and intent- a good reason. I would ask myself if here was any real reason to say no. If not then we would allow whatever. He defined adulthood as doing whatever you want, whenever you want without considering anyone else. Trying to teach him adulthood means so much more than that seemed impossible. And, the closer he came to the end of high school, the more and gradually more responsibilities and privileges given him, the more resentful and occasionally disrespectful and un grateful he became. He experienced a very humbling experience a few weeks before graduation. That helped a bit in terms of the resentment and disrespect. But he was impatient to move away, and I was also looking forward to it. It would be a relief. Also, let him see for himself what things are like out there! All year when he was a way, things were much easier between us. He still has a lot of growing up to do, but I now trust it will happen. I knew it would, and upon reflecting, I was maybe impatient to see him grow up, but in my definition (making your own decisions, but with regard to all of the responsibilities in life, not his, the do-whatever-whenever definition). Almost all other parents I know who have had kids grow up and move away like this were sad, depressed, looked at it as an ending. I felt nothing but pride in my son and relief at not having the day to day battles of living with someone who has outgrown this phase of his life and needs to move on. In so many ways he felt held back before. He blamed his dad and I for that. We did not hold him back. He just essences what we did and I resented him for resenting me, even though I believe We struck a good balance between parenting, guiding, encouraging and letting him grow and experience things. So happy to be in this next phase!

A friend of a friend died. At the time it appeared to be suicide but it turned out to be natural causes. She was a very ill person and had struggled with drug addiction since her teens. I feel like she gave me a wake up call even though we didn't really know each other. Life is short and precious and not to be wasted.

I got diagnosed with, and treated for, cancer. They think I'm cancer-free now, as much as you can tell that. I'm still untangling how I feel about it. There's a big streak of resentment, anger, and self-pity that surfaces at times. It's changed the way I feel about myself, my body, my friends and family. I guess mostly I feel off-balance. Metaphorically as well as literally.

The most significant experience I have had this past year is my trip to Indoor Nationals. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Originally, the plan to run Indoor Track was to prepare for Outdoor Track. I spent all of 2013 fall preparing by myself with the help of a coach; I worked on form, proper technique, and strength. The goal was to be prepared for the Indoor season; something I have never ran until I was a junior. As a way to test my progress, in early December I ran an open college meet. That meet went par, not really sure how much I improved from the 2013 Outdoor season because I was unsure of how to run the 800 on an indoor track. Then Indoor season started, I was swept into the fold of freezing, often night-like practice times that left me miserable (however, looking back on it I feel a sense of nostalgia whenever I inhale the cold morning air). For the first few dual meets I did okay, I felt unsure of how to compete in the Indoor distances until I hit a state meet. Before I go any further, the primary event I ran was and still is the 600m, a race that many hate but I happen to enjoy. At that state meet, that specific meet, I suddenly felt that I had found an untaught pace that only experience could teach. I dropped over 5 seconds and placed fourth overall. My time topped the leader board for two heats, not bad for someone in the first heat of 4. Ecstatic as I was about my new PR more good news was to come. My friends told me that I had qualified for the first level of the Indoor Nationals for 2014, I never planned on that. Later I found out that I was several seconds off the top tier for nationally ranked high school athletes. The next few state meets, I steadily dropped time in increments, but by the end of the season I soon became ranked 10th nationally and came within reach of breaking a school record. Now, Indoor Nationals is nothing that I ever experienced before. I came in ranked 10th from the 600, little did I realize that it didn't mean squat when the distance reverted to Outdoor distances. I ended up running the 400m, an event I had limited experience to. Not only did it show, but I finished 2nd to DFL. But then I realized how much success I had, I came into Indoor for the first time at an older age, inexperienced, and came out with a national ranking. I had improved far more than I had anticipated, and now I have the experience to help me know how to prepare for the next indoor season, which I eagerly await.

After 5 years away I returned to an activity that had become more of a burden than a joy. I found the joy in it again after the time away.

One significant experience that has happened is very simple...Being a parent of an extremely depressed child. He has so much love to give but doesn't know how to give it. He also has a lot of social anxiety which stops him from doing the thing I know he wants to do. I've sometimes wondered, why me, and then I see other parents that are worse off than I am and that brings me back to reality. It could be worse and I can handle this! (I hope I can) Another thing that happened this year was that my grandmother who was 99 passed away 3 months before her 100 birthday. That was very hard for all of us because she was a very big part of all our lives. She was a wonderful and beautiful woman and will truly be missed. She is now in heaven flying with all her favorite butterflies. We all love you Bubbie!!!!

In the past year I decided not to be a doctor anymore!! I guess it makes me feel mostly relieved. The whole time I was pre-med I had this constant lingering doubt that it wasn't quite what I wanted to do. Now I feel a lot happier and teaching seems more right for me. I'm also really excited to get involved in the education field! But of course I'm still getting over the whole problem of telling people that I dropped out of the pre-med track...

We had the first anniversary of the last parent's passing that we had cared for in our home. We had a lot to think about- nostalgia, relief and more. Most of all we were grateful for the experiences of learning how we would like to be treated in our last years.

Last year, during Spring Break, my husband and I went to the mountains to rest, relax, and go to the hot springs. During that week, it was the 1 year anniversary of my mom's death. Life had been hard for her and in some ways, the living was harder than the dying. While she lived and long life, full of many blessings, one blessing that escaped her was to be content and to accept living in the process. She always strove for accomplishments, rather than appreciating the journey to get there. I, along with one of my sisters, spent a lot of time assisting her during the last years of her life -- I lived out of state but was her medical caretaker 10+ years -- flying back and forth and constantly on edge reviewing her records, communicating with doctors, and flying out at the drop of the hat when needed. While I am grateful that I had her trust and respect to be allowed to assist her, that was also sometimes quite difficult, due to all of the complications from complex and challenging mental health issues. My sister and I hadn't yet been able to scattered her ashes in exactly the manner she wished, so while sitting in the hot springs, I mentally scattered her ashes, along with all of the messy feelings her life and death brought, into the river. I made the choice, on the anniversary of her death, to just give some things up about her life and our relationship, as well as things I'd been hanging on to for too long. Yes, sometimes it is a choice to retreat, feel bitter, and to hold onto resentments about who did what and who didn't help. I made a choice that week to focus on what is within my grasp and what I can do, and to take care of (and l0ve) myself. I felt relieved of the burden of my mom's care and positive about moving forward, focusing more on taking care of myself and my husband. While this symbolic act might seem trivial, in the last 6 months I have felt freer and more positive than I had in many years.

Reading a variety of books for book club and realizing that my life is a piece of cake compared to others.

I made my first real friend as an "adult." Maybe adult is the wrong word, but first real, long-term friend as the person I am now. I feel excited, more supported than ever, like I have a place I really belong, a place (person) I can grow with, explore what's really there. It's also scary and confusing, to explore what it's like to have a relationship my family / many of my old friends don't understand and don't value, to explore deepening / relaxing into trust with someone.

I spent my summer in Thailand immersing myself in a yoga instructor training program. To try and describe how this experience affected me is truly impossible. Trust me, I've attempted. I can, however, articulate some of the effects. I am beyond grateful. The greatest impact it had on me is a renewed belief in the power and importance of pure, unconditional love. I am better able to approach challenges in my life with a clear, calm mind. I am grateful to have been forced to meditate so regularly that I now never want to start another day without a silent meditation. In addition to a daily meditation practice, I have added little things like turmeric supplements to my everyday life. I am inspired to spread love and kindness in every moment. Each person, no matter their actions, needs love and kindness. I have the power to give it.

I failed 2 different standardized exams due to impatience. The practice test indicated I wasn't ready, but I wanted to get it over with. I hadn't failed something since 5th grade when our history teacher decided it was time for a Renaissance pop quiz and I got a 53. I remember crying and being SO mad at this teacher. This time, I lacked endurance and had a ton of social life with my boyfriend, friends, and family. This time, I am mad at myself. It opens empathy and creativity to fail at something that important. It threw my plans down the drain. But now, I feel more. I can empathize better with all the people who are going through something, I see them walking to work and wonder what they are going through and I feel more...human. However, it hurt my ego. On the good side, I am more excited about the possibilities plan B offers because they are actually better but they take another year of waiting before applying. I can't waste a minute now.

Both of our daughters were on extended treks, one in Chiapas the other Morocco and they made it back safe and sound. The greatest toll was had by my wife, worrying daily. Of course, as soon as they were back they started planning for the next adventure.

Helping Jeff with a way to bury Rhonda, helped me feel like there was something I could do to help him and Corey. I was glad to connect with Rhonda's sister Tish and her husband, and I wish I could see all of them again soon.

Two experiences: My appendicitis was a blessing in disguise. It gave me time to recover after mom's death. It was time I wouldn't have taken otherwise. Baby girl #4. It will be a lot of work and changes the trajectory of where we thought we were headed. However, what a beautiful blessing. I'm so overjoyed to have more love in the house.

I changed jobs for the second year in a row. I had moved to Houston. Some 1000 plus miles from where I was to start fresh. It had not been a good fit and I left after only 11 months. It was a bit frightening and could have consequences in the future. I came here to be happy and wasn't. The change has been very positive. A little bit smaller company and with a much less confrontational paradigm. It's only been 6 months but I'm much more content, still anxious, but more satisfied. If anything I'm more aggressive than they are used to. As a more comfortable person I have been able to be a better friend and focus on my relationships. I've also had time to think about myself and my weaknesses. Now I just need to work on those. The negative is that I have some guilt for not roughing it out and at least completing the project the first company hired me for. Most of the hard work had been completed or planned for and I feel like I had developed a pretty good team. Some of that went away when the project was finished on time and below budget. Another negative is that I REALLY need this new job to work out. In my position, you just can't be changing jobs all the time. I had worked at the same company for 14 years before I took the offer in Houston. I guess I'm grateful to have found another opportunity in this city. I like it here and I hope to make it work.

My divorce was finalized in December. I am relieved to have it over with, but sad when I remember the years when the marriage was still good. I'm not sure I have really done the work of grieving for what I have lost. At the same time, I can't really move forward with the next chapter until I can physically relocate next June. I feel like I am living in suspended animation waiting for my life to shift back into gear.

I got into grad school. I felt relieved and grateful, and inspired to work harder to succeed!

Getting into school has been the most amazing thing! I don't know what I will do with my education, but it has been an interesting trip this last month. I'm learning a lot and I'm learning it fast.

I decided to leave my job and embark on the next stage of my life. It made me realise how much my sense of self was wrapped up in what I was doing rather than who I am, and the process of leaving work has challenged me to find my identity without titles and labels. I'm grateful, but also feel like I've jumped off a cliff and haven't landed yet.

I had my heart broken. A man who I adored, who said he love me for year, told me he didn't... Never really did. It affected me deeply. I'd been in love before but never with someone so kind and thoughtful; I believed it was the real thing. Now I don't trust myself... I don't think I know what love really is. I think I know what infatuation is, what lust is, what illusion is… so now I'm afraid. Afraid of anyone who cares about me. I don't believe them.

Nana's passibg away. I am not grateful not resentful, It just has a great impact in my life, since she is not where I has to face my own issues which was really hard.

I came to realize a realtionship I have been in for the past 6 years had little reality other than what I hoped it to be, rather than what it really was. I invested so much emotinal energy in this that I lost sight of myself & what my priorities should have been. In this time I have lost my father, several friends walked away from me, 2 of my best friends moved away & 1 died. My son is struggling with anxiety & needs me right now & having realized I have been directing my energy in people that don't want it, I am now able to realign my priorities & focus on helping my son heal. This is a very real loss for me & I am grieving but in the right direction, I am grieving what I never had & realize I never really lost this man.

Being pregnant and giving birth to amazing twin girls. Having to spend 9 weeks away from home reinforced how wonderful my family, friends and our community is. I am grateful that my husband worked all day, looked after our son and made the 3 hour trip to see me each week. I am grateful for my sister in law and brother in law for taking me in. I am grateful for our friends that visited, bought over meals, painted the girls room and were always there to listen. We now have 2 healthy baby girls x

I found that I was uncomfortable driving long distances , especially trips that involved parkways. It was scary! It means that I will be dependent on others,and that I may have to limit my adventures. I am grateful there are many around to help me out. I am relieved that I am "grown up" enough to accept the limitation and not risk my safety and the safety of others. I am not resentful that I have to curb my activities. I am sad though. However, I realize things could be much worse.

Last November, I was raped. It's taken a long time for me to be able to say it plainly like that. There's so much I want to write about it - to heal myself, to make a difference, to stop sexual assault. I start the monologue in my head frequently. First the monologue focused on the events, the timeline, then months later it became more visceral, and now it starts with how I've changed. I still haven't written anything - besides an age-appropriate script of how I want to talk about consent to my young children if and when I have them. Someday I hope to have the voice to be able to make a difference, but for now I am finding healing and power in the simplicity of that very short sentence.

I am so happy that I was able to travel with my two friend s this year. It was the first time in a long time, I felt truly happy and free. It made me remember that I am blessed to have amazing friends that I can count on no matter the time or the distance. I am grateful for just being able to travel. I was left feeling inspired to see more of the world, create new memories and grow from the experiences.

My friend made an assumption that hurt my feelings. I groused about it to another friend and then decided to speak out. i wrote a thoughtful email explaining why I was hurt and sent it off!!! It took real courage on my part. it was more confrontational than i usually allow myself to be. I was proud of myself for being willing to let it all hang out! My friend seems to want to make amends, but we haven't discussed it together yet. i hope I can maintain my position of inner strength when we meet in p.erson

I have realized that I really don't seem to want to work anymore. I miss the money, but I am happy to leave the rat race. I am concerned about how I am spending my time and I know I need to organize my time. I was going to say organize it better, but I need to organize it. Period. I have been vegetating and I don't like it. I may want to do something seasonal, but I don't want any big responsibility anymore.

My fondest memory from the past year was taking our canoe down the river to an island, with my wife and two dogs. The dogs thoroughly loved the experience, jumping in the water, trying to catch minnows, soaking up the experience. It made me glad to be alive. I felt connected to eternity and all that is good.

My student, Annie, was killed tragically. It deeply affected me. I was (and still am) so very angry. I am inspired to embrace my loved ones and care more about my health. I became afraid to get too close to or attached to my students. I appreciated my church community more, even though I am not actually religious. I was moved to cultivate a healthy soul. She was my age and had lived so much; she was a loving soul and a compassionate person. I want to emulate that and to remember her.

We got married! We are incredibly grateful and inspired by the love of our family and friends!

This past year (september 2013–2014), I went on two volunteer trips overseas, each for one month. The first one (11/13) energized me and reaffirmed many of my gifts, skills, and passions; the second one (7/14) made me question them all. I realize now that I hadn't fully processed all that I needed to about the first trip and because of that, all the self-assessment I had been doing as I approach my 50's made every insecurity more raw than ever. Because the nature of the two trips were very different in form and function, I was able to recognize the form in which I can thrive. I'm a good helper and a team player, but I need challenges to rise up to. Even as I'm going through emotionally very challenging and difficult times, I'm grateful for the opportunity to touch and engage in such concrete ways the walls of this life experience. Because I know that I'll be better for it. I'm still in the challenge, so I can't say I'm relieved, nor resentful (that's not a place I'd consciously remain in). Inspired? Yes, though I may not be jumping up and down thrilled and charged by adrenalin from the ceaseless flow of ideas. I'm thankful for my ideating brain--but it needs occasional spark--no, more frequent than that. I pray and long for more courage and stronger resolve to do greater things than I know I'm capable of.

I started a great new job. I was grateful and quite relieved, as my previous job of six years was making me miserable.

I am grateful that my youngest child has started high school. His journey is in full swing and he is making his way out of our nest. I am glad to be the home from which our children emerge whole, intact and fly-ready. The space that is already appearing feels potent, like there are mysteries and possibilities that are for the taking, to explore, to discover and inhabit. Sifting through years of belongings as rooms change also feels freeing. Stuff is leaving by boxes and there is a lightness that shines all around.

The most significant experience was our wedding day. Leading up to the day it was a very stressful process. It really felt like everything that could go wrong did. During the wedding I was so calm and I felt so ready for the big day. After the wedding I was do sad it was over! I still want to wear my wedding dress. I am so relieved the stress is over but I would do it again.

The most significant thing to happen to me in the past year was getting a new job. It hasn't really affected me too much as it only happened to me within the last couple weeks. I will be in a much different place financially. I have much more confidence about my professional worth. I'm grateful and relieved to have found such a great opportunity. It was in no small part due to the help of Brian and Lauren. Brian for his advice and Lauren for her motivation and support. The move that was a necessary part of getting this job had me a bit resentful at first, but I've been so busy I don't really miss my friends that much yet. I think the dread of leaving many of the people I care about had me very depressed. Leaving these people has given me a slight element of freedom, however. Cutting ties with any person or thing always gives me a feeling of freedom. As always, the dread leading up to this experience was far FAR worse than any unhappiness the experience itself provided.

I met Mary Kate. I think I'm going to Marry her in a couple years. I can't wait to get our lives together started.

Spending time with Margarita Eischenholtz -what a wonder she is. inspired me anew to live in faith to trust in the ever present presence of Christ and the Spiritual World. Brought me closer once again to John Gardner. Renewed my devotion through "God Calling." Yes, I feel very grateful. Asked Christ for help in resolving relationship problem with my mother. Realised I could not solve/resolve the problem on my own. "Ask and it is given!"

This year I was planning to return to Japan to work for a year but those plans changed when I was refused check-in for my flight. My only option was to rebook at an additional fee that I simply could not afford. I decided that day that I didn't really want to go back to Japan, that I wanted to be close to loved ones so I didn't book another flight, instead I relocated to the city I was flying out of. I am extremely happy with the way things worked out and am proud of myself for being able to rationally decide not to go abroad again. Things have been working out perfectly since that decision, I am grateful.

I got out of my job and into a street position through networking. I couldn't be more relieved. I had feared I would be sick voted and rotting where I was, and now I have challenges and opportunities open to me. I couldn't be happier.

My mother's breast cancer diagnosis changed a lot for me. In her diagnosis, I was forced to deal with my parents' mortality and my family life which I had been trying to ignore for so long. It sent into motion events that I couldn't stop, and I didn't realize how much of a woman it made me. I found a source of inner wisdom I never knew I had and a certain focus that I never knew I could achieve. The fact that my parents could see now that I was wise, funny, and all the things that I knew I was the sign that the lens of seeing me as a child was removed. I was a woman, through and through.

My wife took a new job that takes her out of state regularly. I was upset, but it also made me think a lot more about how much I love her. In a weird way, I think it has made me really think more positively.

This past year I had to deal with the loss that took place in my divorce once again through a lawsuit against my attorney. It was very difficult to relive that and reopen that wound. With the fact that my children weren't with me as often as I'd like I found is so difficult to face this lawsuit. Through leaning on my husband I was able to make it through and was relieved that we won the lawsuit and grateful for having a partner in life that is so different from the last - someone I can lean and depend on.

This past year my parents (ages 85 and 88) moved back to Kansas City and are now sharing a home with my husband and I. I thought I was prepared to be the parent to my parents, but I'm not sure anything could have prepared me for that responsibility! Mom can't seem to decide whether she wants to be independent or an invalid, as her ability to walk, care for her personal hygiene, open her pill bottles, etc. changes from day to day. We're unsure if she is having cognitive issues, or if she just chooses to zone out and shut down communication. It's very puzzling...but she is seeing a Geriatrician at KUMed, so hopefully Dr. B can get to the bottom of some of this. About 3 weeks after they moved here, Dad had a mild stroke that I can only hope he remembers as a wake-up call. After a week in the rehab center, he's doing great and doesn't need home-based therapy any more, although the visiting nurse still comes by every week to check on him. I do have times when I'm greatly relieved they are with us and not in rural Arkansas trying to deal with things like Dad's stroke. I also have times when, I admit, I'm a little resentful that Tim and I now have to make choices as to how we are going to live our day-to-day life that we didn't used to need to even consider! I'm already tired of listening to my Dad talk about absolutely nothing...he has no consideration of the rest of us and what we might be doing. If he wants to talk or ask you a question, he just asks...and makes insulting wise cracks if you don't acknowledge his comments/question or don't do something by the exact time he thinks it should be done. I've already called him on it once...we'll see if he remembers. Yes...they are already driving me crazy!...and they've only been living with us 2 months! I feel like I'm just a whiner...

This year I gave birth to my first child. I was terrified of the birth and it was certainly a learning experience. I am so thankful for the support of my husband, my doula, my obstetrician and the medical team. My parents, my sisters, my family and my friends made me feel so loved during my labor and delivery. I actually felt relatively calm. Many hours and a slightly chaotic c-section later, my amazing daughter is now the apple of my eye.

I travelled to another country. The country of origin for both sides of my family. And I did it all by myself. I've never left the country before or vacationed alone. It was a life changing experience. Dear Self, You are capable of so much more than you give yourself credit for. You have your hang ups, sure. But you now know that they cannot stop you any longer. There's so much more adventure out there for you. Go and carpe the eft out of that diem.

Finished my doctorate! Happy to have completed something, grateful for all my family support, very happy to have space in my life again

Late last spring we were finally able to refinance our house, which dramatically lowered our mortgage payments. There have been some very tight months in the past couple of years. I am so grateful to have some financial wiggle room in our lives. It has reduced the stress on our marriage. My husband and I have money to go out on monthly dates - something we haven't been able to do since we first became parents 6 years ago. It is amazing to me how a 15 minute conversation with a bank lawyer and a few signatures could significantly improve our lives. We are blessed!

Move to CA and sequent birth of my two grandchildren. I feel very blessed

I graduated from uni with a BMus/BEd. But in the half year since finishing my degree before the graduation itself I found myself changing my mind on whether I would pursue this path. It made me feel uncertain, lost, unsure and small. I haven't made any decisions still this whole year.

I traveled with my children in europe and witnessed my brothers wedding in france. Travelling with my kids was the most amazing experience as we were away from many of the stressors of home and could explore and relax and be together and have fun. It was an adventure, and we were cramped together, and they handled it beautifully, rolled with unexpected changes, met new people, tried to speak to people who didn't understand english. they showed me their independence and strengths as well as their ability to travel and move as a group. I am so proud of how they comported themselves around both family and strangers, how my son is turning into a real gentleman, and my daughter a demure woman.I am so grateful to my brother for getting us all together and inspiring our adventure, to my mother for paying for our tickets, to my cousin who so generously hosted and planned, and to my children for the happiness i saw in them so frequently during the vacation. It was the experience of a lifetime.

I took a trip by myself in July to go to Bro-Am, a surfing competition, concert, and charity fundraiser all rolled into one. My favorite band, Switchfoot, put it on. I got to do whatever I wanted for three days in the greater San Diego area. The trip left me feeling more connected to God and more centered than I had in 6-9 months previous. There is something incredibly freeing and humbling about standing in the ocean, and letting the force of the Pacific push me back towards the beach.

The death of one of my congregants -- too young, too sudden. I was grateful for the opportunity to become part of their family, learn with them, from them, help to steer them through the process and stretch myself to be there for them in ways I didn't know possible. He was beloved and there were hundreds of people at his funeral -- but I think I was able to be there for them in a very profound way. I grew from it, and I know I will be able to be there for others as well. As always, it reminds me that we need to tell the people that we love, that we love them. They should know they are loved.

I got married! It affected me because I never really understood the point of having a wedding until I had one. Our families came in from all over the US and Mexico to meet and celebrate. I never imagined how happy and calm I would be the day of. I am grateful, relieved and inspired by my family and friends, both old and new.

In May, I was recognized by Equality California for my work in HIV and LGBT rights. I was informed that I was to receive the State Farm Good Neighbor Award at the EQCA awards banquet. I had a good idea of who had nominated me, and I felt a little strange about receiving the award. I was intimidated because the other honorees included the plaintiffs in the marriage equality case that led to the restoration of equal marriage rights in California. My accomplishments didn't seem that important in comparison. I procrastinated on writing my acceptance speech and didn't complete it until the morning of the event. I had invited some colleagues from work to attend as my guests. And then came the time for giving my speech. Despite being an introvert, I actually enjoy public speaking. I'm usually incredibly nervous leading up to the event, but once I begin, it becomes easy. My speech focused on growing up in a poor family that was wracked by alcoholism and violence and how realizing I was gay saved my life. The audience laughed with me as I talked about realizing I was gay in PE--who didn't? And then I took a serious turn and talked about the emergence of AIDS when I was only 13, and how it impacted my life and consciousness. At the end of the speech, I thanked the audience and walked off the stage. As I was about to step down, the MC tapped me on the shoulder and brought me back on stage. I was getting a standing ovation. I stood there on the stage in front of a room of mostly strangers who were celebrating me. I let the adulation flow through me--this group of people did something for me that I can rarely do for myself, which is to express appreciation and recognize my efforts to leave this world a better and fairer place than I found it. I'm so accustomed to focusing on what I'm not doing well, or what remains to be done, that I don't often reflect on what I have accomplished. This event gave me that, and I'm grateful for it.

We took JWW together, starting around this time last year. Paul - it brought us closer together and welcomed us into a new DC community Leah - it gave us a network of Jewish friends to observe with and helped us make mutual friends for the first time.

Last December I was walking home from work when I saw a tiny kitten meowing in a pile of trash. It was freezing out so I picked him up took him inside and within 10 minutes I was in love. In the past 9 months, my Brooks has changed my life. Hes silly and snarky. Hes a pain in the ass but he has changed Brandon & my life for the better. I just love him .

My significant experience in the last year was getting nose surgery. Not for cosmetic reasons, but for health reasons. I had septoplasty and turbinate reduction surgery in February. This involves fixing my deviated septum and using electrical impulses to reduce the size of the turbinates in my nose (these are ridges in the nose that aid in ???) I believe my deviated septum was the result of a bicycle accident when I was 15 years old. Someone at high school thought it would be funny to loosen the quick release mechanism on the front wheel of my bike. Riding home that afternoon I lifted the front wheel to get over a bump in the road and my front wheel came off the forks. I crashed hard and spent a few days in hospital recovering. Part of the reason my septoplasty is significant is my wife's reaction to it. I decided to go ahead with the surgery despite not being on a great medical plan at work. She was worried about the high costs of surgery in America. The total cost to me / us was around $5000 in the end. Yes, that was pretty expensive, but I also think it was worth it to get back my free breathing through my nose that I had missed for almost 30 years.

I went to France along with the family this summer and was awed by the architecture of the city. Iw as both awed and inspired.

Two changes for our older generation: a death and a life-changing fall. These necessitated 6 months of time-, energy- and soul-consuming work, de-prioritizing everything else. A huge salad of emotions: anger, regret, doubt, sadness, impatience, gratitude, relief, connection. I yearn for a feeling of completeness: to understand the lives and meanings of Edith and Dad, and thought that since in a way we humans use stuff as a symbol and proxy for meaning in our lives, when I got to the end of sorting the stuff I would have sorted the life. But no.

After many years of hard work my wife got her dream job and negotiated for a excellent salary. We no longer have any immediate financial concerns. I'm incredibly grateful and relieved.

I broke my dick and had to have surgery to repair it. I am grateful for the experience and what I learned from it. I only wish I had learned those lessons without all the penis trauma.

wow! well Bones was put to sleep on Nov 1. It was horrible, terrible, awful and BLECH. i am not sure i am over it. i still cry when i think about it fully. I gained a little bit of weight from it and probably became more closed off from it. I am fully back on with kenn which is good? Bad? boring at times.. all of those things at times sadly i was somewhat relieved when bones was put to sleep. it was had to have him towards the end. i was worried about him a lot and he was not himself all the time. I am sure that is due to the medications he was on but what i wouldn't give for another day with him in the park, on a leash, snuggling for hugs and just being with him. I got aerwyn and he is good and has kept me really busy. i am not sure i should have made that choice or even the choice to move in with kenn if bones hadnt died. i know there was a portion of me that died with bones. i want to be more inspired. probably i am just lazy

I came to the realization that people's responses to me that are painful (e.g., not following up on staying in touch or doing something they said they'd do) usually have nothing to do with me. This realization made it easier to move on and not get hung up on feeling angry or hurt by others, to move on and be open to meeting people who are true to their word

My second son's bar mitzvah and that my father made it to be there. My brother did everything in his power to have my dad there and I got to hold my father's hand and bond and share in the moment as Ezra stood on the bima and read Torah and became a member of our community. I felt joy and I felt ģratitude and I felt love. I am also happy that although the first thought that came to mind was a recent disappointment at work, but then I realized that not only was it not significant, it was not a joyful moment and I want to focus on the moments of joy.

I met someone, about two months ago, on the third of August, on a bus departing from Reykjavik BSÍ bus terminal to Núpur, in the westfjords of Iceland. We both attended a language course, to which we both ended up spending very little attention. He came to Iceland with his then-girlfriend. He ended things with her on Friday the 8th. She went back home. I slept in his bed that same night. I have stopped caring about the judgment others will pass on this fact. We were very drunk, talked for hours and then fell asleep spooning, not even having kissed each other. From that moment on we were pretty much inseparable. He took away so much of my insecurity. I needed him to help me help myself. He thought I was beautiful, intelligent, funny and kind, and for once I believed it (even the one about being beautiful, a bit). I am so very grateful to him for giving me a big push - I needed it and I feel happier than I've ever been. For the first time ever I am sure of being in love, and it doesn't make me want to hide away; it makes me want to be with him all the time. I never experienced this before. I actually cried tears of joy when he told me he loves me. I realise this has become a romantic cliché, but it's all ours and I wouldn't want it any other way.

I'm proud of myself during last year. I achieved the highest possible grades while taking classes at Argosy University. I did learn a lot about business which will be very helpful in my future carrier

I found a doctor that could accurately diagnose and treat a problem I've been having for 5 years. It is amazing to finally feel better. And all I had to do was pay $1200 for this doctor. So yes I'm relieved and outraged that people with money (of which I don't really have that much) can get amazing health care and the middle class have to make due with mediocre health care.

Two weeks ago, I had to euthanize my 17-year-old cat, who had been a wonderful companion to me since he was a 10-week-old kitten. He was the first animal I adopted on my own, so this was my first experience making an end-of-life decision. Watching his health decline over the past 6 months was agonizing and humbling. One's own pain is hard to bear, of course, but there is something particularly excruciating about watching a loved one suffer. He required an increasing amount of care during his last weeks, and it was very challenging, both technically and emotionally. I constantly wondered if I was doing the right thing, or if I was doing enough. I worried about his comfort, and had to keep reassuring myself that he knew how much he was loved. I learned that I can do light nursing duties, like giving subcutaneous injections, and I learned, not for the first time, that as you go through life, you end up doing things you swore you would never do -- like giving a cat subcutaneous injections. For a few years now, since my kitty was first diagnosed with kidney disease, I've been saying that he'd already had a much longer life than many cats do, so every day we had together was a bonus. And I am very grateful for the wonderful life we had together -- I couldn't have asked for better. But the intensity of the grief I felt in the days around his passing took me by surprise. I guess I thought that if everything is done right, with nothing left undone or unsaid, and the loved one has lived a full, long life with no regrets, that losing them wouldn't hurt so much. But when a creature is such an integral part of your life for so long, their absence really leaves a hole. When you love someone very much, you'll always want one more day, one more cuddle, one more "I love you." Even when it's the right time, it hurts to say goodbye. I remain grateful for his life and the joy he brought me every single day. And I'm relieved that his suffering is ended. I am resentful, though, of the cruel joke life plays on us: you can do your very best year after year, giving love and loyalty to those around you, but in the end you'll experience the degradation of physical decline -- nausea, vomiting, bleeding, incontinence -- all manner of indignities. And then when you finally go to your reward, your loved ones, who have just watched the travesty of the dying process, don't get to see it. The experience reminded me of a line from the movie Shadowlands, that C.S. Lewis says to his wife's young son after she dies of cancer: "The pain now is part of the happiness then. That's the deal." I bawled like a baby at that line, but at the time, I hadn't lived it yet... I had no idea...

My grandmother died this March. With her death I experienced so many emotions, from my own grief over the loss of someone who had a very significant presence for the first 27 years of my life. Also, feeling the ripple affects of grief that spread through my family. She was our emotional glue. Her warmth, kindness, love, humor, constant strength and wisdom held us together. She had a unique ability to say just the right things in this gentle, yet honest way. And to speak of deep topics, but also keep the tone light and loving. She was always focused, moving forward, and never wasted energy dwelling on the past. The experience of being with her as she died, was unlike anything else in my life. I remember entering her room in hospice and my eyes welled up with tears. It's sort of this uncontrollable emotional response, that I did my best to keep at bay, but ultimately just broke down. Being there at her bedside, was deeply intimate and excruciatingly painful. We all sang, "These are a few of my favorite things" and "I can't give you anything but love". And, it was perfectly apropos to send her out of this world with surrounded by what she loved most if life, her family and music. I felt being with her during her death was profound, and gave me peace to know that she she was with me at the beginning of my life, and I was there at the end of hers. In the 27 years between, we shared holidays and ski vacations, swam together in oceans and Long Island Sound. We traveled across the world together. She rubbed my frost-bitten feet after a freezing cold ski race in Vermont. I feel such gratitude to have shared this amazing piece of our lives together. To have been loved by her and to have loved her back. This made me wonder, how do we value and love those who are special in our hearts while we are alive together, in this moment? What ways can we act to express how much we care? Perhaps, it's best not to over-think, and it's really quite simply a collection of moments, in which we are sharing verbs. That we watch, listen, laugh, ask, feel, watch, sing, hug, touch, ski, swim, smile. All of it together. All of it shared. We shared the same name, so there's a certain symbolism I feel with that. Mostly, my desire to carry on her wonderful qualities in life, to love my family and share good things in this world. There's a part of me that was relieved to see her go, because she was deteriorating over the past year, and she was no longer comfortable in her own body. So for all that I feel grief and pain in the place that she once filled. I know that I can feel peace, too. That she lived a wonderful life, and I was a part of that. And, I still am.

I attended a reunion with friends from the Boy Scouts. I hadn't seen them in 30 years. I'd been waiting for that reunion for most of my life. I was happy to go. I was happy and grateful to have been invited. I cried.

The most significant experience for me in the past year was the move back to Florida. Even though I'd been planning it for over a year and a half, actually bringing it to fruition required an immense amount of work and changes. Luckily, much of it fell into place easily and, before I knew it, one son was far away at college, one son was far away in high school and the youngest and I were here. I don't know yet all the effects of the move. I get flashes of happiness and feelings of security that I am back, but I miss my other sons and our family dynamic. I worry about them, particularly Zach. I'm grateful that there was only one major hiccup, which left a sour taste in my mouth. I'm relieved that I'm back. I'm only resentful towards the woman who caused the hiccup, but, when I think about it, I try to remain calm and let karma take care of it. I'm definitely inspired by what I now appreciate here.

2014 started with new inspirations and a new, untested training program. Having been a poor runner all my life, the program focused on improving my weaknesses. Halfway into it, a long run was scheduled. 15K. Just over 9 miles. For the first time in (literally) decades, a sense of strength and certainty overcame me. My legs felt powerful. My chest wasn’t struggling for air. And there was no slowing me down. It turned into my fastest training 5K ever (though there were faster ones at official races) but it was also my fastest recorded 10K and my fastest 15K. Everything was glorious and magical and things were going to change for the better! Until the next morning. My knees were shot. Especially the left. It felt as if somebody were sliding a knife under my kneecap with each step. Walking was difficult, at best. Training was impossible. And the disappointments were just beginning. The new training program had to be canceled. My first triathlon of the season resulted in a significantly slower time than the previous year. My first half Ironman had to be canceled. And every race after that was either canceled, or slower. 2014 turned out to be my worst season since starting. A total disaster. The end result was less time with my friends. More feelings of doubt and uncertainty. And a renewed sense of depression that hadn’t been felt in years. It was a huge personal and emotional step backwards. The experience was less about physical pain and more about personal disappointment. But perhaps it taught me a lesson about pacing myself. And instilled a new sense of caution. In this world there are different types of mistakes. Good ones that we learn from. And bad ones that we repeat over and over without ever realizing the error of our ways. Hopefully this was a good one. Only time, and next year's racing season, will tell.

Probably the most significant experience this year involves my deciding to learn to paint and draw. It has affected me in numerous ways...given me a sweet little confidence I always knew was inside me but just hadn't chipped away to uncover yet, make me acutely aware of what I'm looking at and allows me to see so much more. I'm sure there's a say that goes something like, The longer you look the more you see. This is how I feel with art. The other significant thing was my making a decision on January 1 (not a resolution but a decision) to do whatever it took to get healthy this year. It inspired me to put "do like differently today somehow" on my calendar everyday and it has brought many resources both art-wise and health-wise. Thomas being the art resource and Dr. Joe Dispenza with his brilliant books as the health resource. I want to fix me and I will. After all, I am the healthy one and it's the only thing I want...my health back.

Take down surgery from major surgery last year. I had my colon put back together after having multiple abscesses. The hospitalizations last June and this past December were 1st of their kinds and I was able to trust God for recovery and I know God was present as I experienced these events. I have been grateful and inspired by the calm with which I felt God's presence

I went through my father's death which was a profound experience. I had no idea he was that bad until his doctor told me if there was someone living with him, he would recommend hospice. When the live in lady whom I had hired saw him she told me this wasn't going to be a long assignment. She was right. He was in hospice care for exactly two weeks. It was such a relief when they told me to stop trying to get him to eat. He had been so stubborn about not eating and to be able to let go of trying to save him when it was impossible felt right. I loved him so much it was very hard to see him diminish, become less than normal, see his life become so much smaller. To me he had always been the international playboy, playing tennis, chasing girls and dancing all night. The last tennis game (if you can call me hitting the ball to him and him missing it) was in October and he died in May. He actually was doing pretty well for someone in his late 80s. But he FINALLY told me the identity of this sister I heard about for the past 9 years. I found her immediately on Facebook. She knew about me but had never looked for me, which would have been easy given how few people in the world have my maiden name. We sent her $10,000 to bring his only grandchildren over. (they live in France) but by the time they made it he was gone. I fell in love with all of them. I lost a father whom was the closest and most beloved person in my life, but after being an only child all my life, I gained a sister, brother in law and 3 nephews, all of whom I adore. From sadness came great joy!!!!! All the money was left to me but I gave dad's old girlfriend (who was instrumental in guilt tripping dad into revealing Laura's information) $150,000 to buy a house in France where she can live out the rest of her life and then leave it to Laura. When Laura and the boys were here I took them to my bank and opened accounts linked to mine so I can give them money. All the kids got $1,000 and Laura got $2,000 which will pay for the car rental. They were here for 5 weeks and I miss them so much. I am going to spend my next birthday with them at their 300 year old house 90 minutes outside of Paris. I am 13 years older than Laura and much older than my nephews. I never had any kids but these are my heirs. My plan is to live off the interest of dad's money and leave the principle to them. I had a will drawn up and my husband wasn't too happy about my plan. I suppose he thought he would get all of dad's stuff but after I explained that it wouldn't be right for me to keep his mother's things when he has 2 sisters he got it. I never knew I could love kids as much as I love my nephews. They are the best!!!!!!

I started really buckling down on my health issues and have made some great progress. I've lost 60+ pounds, my skin condition is staying steady, and I'm about to embark on the process of weight loss surgery. I'm feeling thankful that I haven't had to be in the hospital in months and despite some irritation with doctors, I feel like I'm making strides in the right direction.

I lost my mother-in-law this last fall. I saw the family come together, in spite of real differences, to work for our common goal of caring for this lovely woman who is so important to all of us. I am very sad and I miss her very much, especially now that our children are leaving the nest. I am also very grateful that we (esp. her 3 kids, my husband and his sisters) were able to support and provide for her care during this very difficult time. Her last days were beautiful and difficult all at once. I find I am more conscious now of my own mortality and the preciousness of our days on the planet.

I am the second person in my family to graduate college and the first to pay her own way! Graduating from Marist with a B.S. in Liberal Studies - concentrations in Organizational Leadership, and Communications; with a 3.97 GPA left me: Exhausted -Mentally, physically, and emotionally. Relieved - That it's over. Inspired - By all that I have learned about myself. Resentful - Due to the time I lost and relationships that suffered. Grateful - That the pursuit of my education showed me who truly cares and supports me in my endeavors. Motivated - To continue reaching for what I once thought was unattainable. Unsure - About what is next. Passionate - About identifying my ideal job/calling/purpose and GOING FOR IT!

The most significant event from this past year was getting married. My husband and I have know one another for 17 years. We had never been able to take things further because we were never available at the same time. He contacted me 2 years ago (after a 5 year hiatus) and told me that he was single. He admitted to me that he had made a mistake, by making a different choice, and that he has loved me for years. Luckily, I was single and have loved him almost since the day I met him. Since we have reconnected and became a couple we have had to face many challenges. We have faced them together and I believe our relationship is stronger because of it. I am still learning how to be a wife and a mother and there are days that I want to just want to cry...however, we have committed to one another that we will do what it takes to get through difficult things together and we are learning how to work together to continue making positive and loving connections.

My husband had a minor heart attack and bypass surgery this January. I am tired. Although he has lost weight and is exercising regularly, he hasn't changed the unhealthy behaviors that contributed to this situation. And I am expected to constantly offer support. I don't know how much longer I can do everything. Balls are falling all around me.

I had two significant experiences. My father died a few days after I answered this question last year. His death has made a significant impact on my life. I miss his gentle presence in our family. I miss his warm and loving nature. I miss his acceptance of who I was, and his recognition I am doing my best and for him that is good enough. His death also left me thinking about the rest of my life wondering what was the right path for me. That led me to taking a summer sabbatical which was great and gave me clarity about wanting to focus my work on Guided Wealth, wanting to work a long time, and wanting to only work 35-40 hours a week so I have time to keep myself centered and focused on what matters most to me.

A significant experience that has a happened in the past year was, going to the World Series for club softball with my mom. It affected me, because I realized that people will travel across the country, to do something that they love and compete, and that when somebody really cares about you, they will go wherever, whenever, and be right their by your side supporting you and cheering you on!!!! Of course, I am very grateful for the experience to go and play to win and especially for my mom coming with me to live this wonderful experience with me.I am very relieved that I got my luggage back after they lost it and that I played well, because that was my main worry stress and fear. I am inspired to go wherever my passion takes me, because I enjoy it so much!!!

At the tail end of the year, my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. Although it is totally different than the breast cancer that took our mother's life, it is, nonetheless, creating incredible stress for all of us as we deal -- individually and as a family -- with the many facets of the surgeries and treatments that will be part of her life for the next several months. At the end of the day, though, she will be fine, and for this and for so much more, we are incredibly grateful. For me personally, this experience is highlighting how very differently we run our lives and the way we plan and prioritize the things that need to happen in our lives. I certainly am not grateful, relieved or inspired by this turn of events, but neither am I inspired. At the same time, it has made me realize what a resource I have become for individuals with BRCA mutations...and how much I enjoy the role.

Helping Johnny McNabb was a roller coaster of an experience. At the beginning, I thought I was doing a great thing by bringing him money, groceries, visits, cookies, etc. I even posted on Facebook and solicited a couple hundred dollars and basically cleared out our pantry to bring him food. I honestly thought I was doing a great thing for him and it made me feel good. I knew that after giving him hundreds of dollars over the course of a few months that it wasn't going to be sustainable. i wanted to teach a man to fish, and I was giving him "fish". It bothered me. I reached out to family elder care in hopes that they could step in for help and it would relieve me of all the stress and concern I had for him. Once that happened, I was disappointed that he wouldn't accept their help as readily and relied on going back to me for more money. When I refused, he got really angry with me, told me that he wished I had never helped him int he first place, told me that I was "nothing" compared to my grandfather and uncle, told me that he didn't want my help. I realized that i may have actually been harming him. It upset me deeply and still does. I know that he is on hard times, I have deep sympathy and concern for him. It's been a few months since I spoke with him, and I'd still like to help him, but I don't want to do it if it will make him reliant upon help that i could provide. He is in a shitty position, but it's not MY job to take care of him. At the end of the day, I feel good about the fact that for a short period of time, I was a source of positivity, help and hope for him. I think I helped him get a little bit better in his life. At this point, I still don't feel comfortable getting back involved with him... but, perhaps I could check in with Claire at Family elder to see if she made any progress.

I had the best time of my life when i traveled in south-east asia for three months all by myself. I really needed some time of from school and it was nice to be in a completely different environment.

I got a permanent job! It was a lot of work for searching, applications, networking, and finally I had four interview processes, two offers and I negotiated my salary at a great place. I am very happy to have accomplished this.

I've discovered I am bisexual. At first I experienced an identity crisis. If I wasn't just an open-minded straight person, who was I? How was I to navigate my new truth? How was I to tell the people around me, and witness their reactions? As I explore the community and my own feelings more, I realize how none of this truly matters. How I feel about the people around me with regards to sexual and romantic attraction has little to no bearing on those present in my life as friends or family. I am still the same person, the only change was I admitted to myself that the pool of applicants for a position which is already filled has grown. It is the person I care most for, not the plumbing. I would never have discovered this without my current partner. He has allowed me to explore my sexuality more than I ever thought possible while in a committed, hetero relationship. He unquestioningly supports me, listens to me, and enables me to explore my sexuality with only the provision of absolute transparency and inclusion. I hope everyone experiences this type of relationship in their lives, because that man is truly the best thing to happen to my personal life. My love and gratitiude to him for helping me navigate this uncharted territory to the best of his abilities defies logic. Now that the initial shock has worn off, I find myself both relieved and inspired by this revelation. Although I am not 'out and proud' per say, I have begun telling those closest to me and I stand firm in my truth. I will not apologize for who I am, nor will I indulge the ignorance of others. I have a whole new world to explore and it offers new opportunities to connect with amazing people every single day. I know it will be difficult at times, but from these scars we all grow a little more beautiful and wild.

I was in Israel during Operation Protective Edge. I was in the bomb shelter 9 times and heard the sirens 2 times outside of that (there was no bomb shelter available). It was scary and so inspiring. Seeing the way the Israeli people go on with their daily lives and aren't afraid and still experience joy was unbelievable. I prayed to Gd to make me brave enough to handle it - and he did!

we have been trying to get pregnant all year. It still isn't over so i don't feel- grateful or relieved or inspired. I guess a part of me feels resentful and I am also trying to have a broader perspective now. To open up to things being different than I imagined.... having to wait longer, needing to have faith and trust in something...There are babies and pregnant mama's everywhere. How can one live in the world and feel so pained each time I see either of them? I need to be handling it all differently. That is what i wish for for the next year and to be more grounded, open, have more perspective and to keep on trying

My partner's grandfather's death led me to reconsider many of the choices and commitments I have made in the past years. Although I'm sad I never met him, I'll be grateful to him for leading me to confirm that I have made good choices in my relationships, but also to remind me to not shy away from standing up, even to my loved ones, for things or people I really believe in.

My daughter survived her freshman year in college, with a 2.2 gpa. Inspiration may be counterindicated here, but she inspires me anyway. We didn't know if she could live to see 19 years, let alone attend college. On the night she was born one of the attending cardiologists told us that babies with these conditions don't live past their teens. The doctors didn't know if she would be able to walk or talk. She plays goalie on a men's lacrosse team. School is hard for her, but she works at it. I try not to fear for her future. She's alive.

So many significant events this year that it's hard to just choose one, so I've thought about this for a bit and decided that one that I am conflicted about is the ending of my relationship with my girlfriend. I was angry because I felt mistreated and unheard when the relationship ended, I also felt that the way it ended devalued the relationship in it's entirety. On the other hand it was a relief to have some of my time back, to be able to spend more time at home, especially as other things in my life had become increasingly stressful. Now, several months on from the breakup, I'm sad that it's over.

My experience is meeting my best friend-Adi. She taught me how to be a better person, opened doors to a better perspective and world, and she loves me and makes me happy- the important things in the world. I love her with all my heart and soul, and I will never forget how she changed my life for the better. She is the best thing I could wish for. It affected me in so many ways. I'm happier, smarter, and much more social person. I used to survive- now I LIVE. I am greatful and thankful more than ever. It's not easy to put up with me. I am more than relieved, I'm calmed and glad I have her as a bestie. I am inspired. I want to be like her. The way she walks and talks and treats herself and other people- I want to be just like that.

My sabbatical and upcoming research visit has assisted me in knowing what I want to be doing. I'm very grateful for it. I love the research element of my job, how much I'm learning and the people I'm interacting with. It inspires me every day. Obviously, the sabbatical ends at the end of the year and I'm anxious of how my 2015 will be set up for me and whether it will still allow me to be involved in research.

I remember watching my brother working at his newly acquired job. He was helping clean up and took so much pride in his work that it made me smile. I felt that he was so happy in his position and I was so proud of him. I feel so grateful to have him as my brother.

Finalmente acabé los 3 examenes del MCSA y me sentí realizado. Ahora me gustaría aplicarlo, si no es en la CNAE en otro trabajo, donde sea. Otra experiencia importante fue la adquisición de los caballos.

My friend passed away just seven weeks after being diagnosed with cancer. It made me pay closer attention to appreciating my life and doing things to prolong my life.

In the past year, I have titrated off 6 years at 250mg of Lamictal (Lamotrigine). September 28, 2014 will be exactly 1 year. I am grateful to be off medications primarily because I don't have to wait at the county to pick up my prescription every month. I do miss visits with my psychiatrist though and think about Dr. M occasionally. How many times have I thought about writing her a thank you note? She became a familiar face at the Mental Health Clinic and my treatment was more effective because I saw her regularly or at least for a solid year, opposed to the rotation of residents from the previous 9 years. She was a positive influence in supporting my decision to find my own baseline. My therapist was instrumental as well and probably more effective than the meds ever were -I've thought many times about creating a painting for him, considering he offered his time and suddenly stopped charging mom's credit card for my visits. It is a relief to know that when I have a flux in emotion, it is just that. If I have feelings of joy, it doesn't mean that I am manic. Or when I feel down, I am not in a state of depression. The experience of not being on medications is significant for me because I had taken some form of anti-depressant or mood stabilizer for 13 years. I'm not sure how my mind, body and spirit has repaired itself, but most days I go with flow. I have been sober for close to 5 years, working at my current job and living in the same home for 2 years, which for me is unusual. My relationship with my partner has been stable for close to 3 years (also unusual) and I'm finally able to start paying back my student loans, even after buying a new car and moving to the posh part of town. Jigsaw falling into place.

My daughter was born! I was fortunate to have a very easy pregnancy, but the birth was difficult because labor had to be induced and then I had a c-section. After that, though, it's just been incredible - so much better and easier than we expected! I don't think there are words to really capture how I feel about my daughter and about being a mother. Shortly after baby E was born, I told my husband that I felt that nothing I had ever done, or ever would do, could ever matter as much to me as motherhood and our child. My daughter is a miracle to me. We call her the "magic baby," because she sleeps so well and hardly ever cries. Her laugh is the most joyful sound I have ever heard - she is a wonderfully joyful baby. I feel lucky to be a mother, and that E is my daughter. I feel lucky to be married to my husband, who is a good man and a wonderful father. I never thought my life could look like it does today. I am happier than I ever thought I would be, and so full of love and gratitude.

I graduated. I finished college and joined a Non-Government Organization. All of 20 years old, leaving the comforting place called home and college is scary and yet the world has so much to offer. The 3 years in college and finally graduating has taught me that there is a lot more to life than just an education. The world has so much to offer. I am grateful to be in this NGO as its a smaller step to the world ahead. I am scared. Scared that I might not be able to dream. dare. do.

I had a quick temper before. I easily get annoyed and angry with someone who will disagree with me or someone that does not follow, in my view, the best way to do things. I changed. I can control my temper now and quite tolerant to other peoples' norm. This made me more accepting to others. I am more contented with myself.

I.had my professional review and though it was glowing, nothing was done to make my work environment better or more promising for me. I was grateful to hear the words but felt that I had hit the end of my development as an employee and began to consider retirement.

Oh my goodness this year. This is the year that I left my job to be a freelance writer. To write and get published and work on my book. And I am grateful yes. And some days inspired. And others terrified and nauseous and wishing I could just go back to having a steady job with steady income and predictability and reliability. Because this kind of change is big and scary and it doesn't necessarily feel better the longer you do it. But I am excited and proud of myself (and my family) for taking this risk and trying to live my dream.

The most significant event of this past year happened to me while I was working at a summer camp in Maine, named Camp Susan Curtis. Camp Susan Curtis is a special place because it is a camp for children whose families are living under the poverty line. I had originally volunteered at the camp with my school for a service trip, but I decided to return later in the summer to work there as an actual paid job. The most significant moment to me was during my cabin's overnight. To expose kids to the experience of camping, the counselors are required to take their campers out of the cabin and into the woods for the experience of sleeping in a tent. My fellow counselors and I split the gear between our three packs and left for our journey into the woods. It took us about forty-five minutes to reach our destination. I was in the back of the group making sure no one was left behind, so throughout the whole hike, I had to tell the kids who were slowing down the truth about all the lies the counselor and the front of the group was telling. Of course, I mean, they were funny lies, like "there's only three hours left", or "we're not even halfway there." But since the kids were young, they believed every word, so to lift the spirits of the kids in the back of the group, I had to tell them the truth of each lie. After we reached the destination, we set up all the tents and started to cook dinner over a campfire. After we ate our dinner of hot dogs and s'mores, we sat down around the fire to have our Summit. The Summit is a nightly camp tradition, where a personal and reflective question is asked. The question that was asked the night of the overnight was "If you could have dinner with anyone, past or present, who would it be?" This was a very emotional question for campers because a lot of them have lost people who were very close to them in their lives. The hardest to hear was a kid who had lost his dad only two weeks earlier. The significance came to me when one of the other counselors said he grew up without a father also, and how this allowed him to form his own idea of what being a man meant. This was powerful to me because I realized how strong the other counselor had to be while growing up, and how lucky I am to have a dad who is a good role model. And yes, this experience may sound cliché, but maybe some clichés exist because so many people experience powerful moments like these. The fact that other people have experienced what I experienced doesn't make it any less special to me.

In October of 2013, the very beginning of this past Jewish Year, I lost my job. That was on a Monday. That Wednesday, I was told I could not resign my house and had to move out by 31 December. So, I started to make the aliyah process. A very quick 3 and a half months later, I became an Israeli citizen: 02 February 2014, 02 Adar 1 5774. It has been an amazing whirlwind of a ride. I have completed the first level of Hebrew. I have moved a couple of times and finally settled down on Kibbutz Lotan. I have a decent job that pays all my bills. And I have new and old friends to enjoy my new found life with. But I also miss my family terribly. I really hate it when well-meaning people ask if I have any family here. They are always somewhat shocked when I say no and then start to grill me; "no aunts or uncles? no one in the north? will they be making aliyah any time soon?" It is nice that they worry I suppose. But I really just wish they would leave it alone. Half of my family isn't even Jewish and the other half aren't Zionists. Yes, it is just me here. Yes, I miss them. Yes, it is hard. Now please move on and stop bringing it up.

Earlier this year, in a systematic and cruel way, I was "dismanted" from my very senior position in a hugely successful company that I loved, was wholly devoted to and had helped build from the ground up for almost 14 years. It was a terrible feeling, to sense after being looked to and lauded as an exemplary leader and having given so much, to have been shut out with no explanation. I knew it was coming because i could see what they were doing but it was awful to not understand why. Colleague by colleague, friend by friend, I felt myself become an untouchable. I was humiliated, terrified, felt my personal power tamped to a whisper. Trust and ease, which i enjoyed for so many years, was gone. I could say this was age-related but i also think it was health related, and now -- four months later -- i can see that yes, working there had become hazardous to my health. The company i had loved so much had become bottom-line driven, without heart, and toxic. I just didn't want to believe it. The day it happened i was expecting it. I dressed for battle that morning and was so angry, so resentful at being so shut out and shut down as a human being. One of the most traumatic parts of this was that this experience also took from me my professional identity. As that dissolved I became more untethered, unsure, and in many ways could not remember, aside from my career personna, just who i really was. That very day that my job (aka I) was "eliminated", aside from the shock of the reality of being unemployed after 30 years of a successful career, I was relieved. Today, I am grateful. I have spent the past 4 months enjoying freedom, reclaiming my health, rediscovering what I love, who I love, and am just beginning to think about the future. I may not know what i want but it is becoming clearer about what i do not want... and that is the stress that i lived with for too long and that gave me cancer and then a strange impediment that required brain surgery. As my work performance soared my health failed - looking back only a few months later i am so fortunate to have been excised from a bad situation. I am just beginning to see there is life after the place i gave so much of myself to -- that there are so many ways to give of myself and continue learning and thriving. I am a bit nervous about choosing what i love without thought about finances, especially after having earned so much in the past. But i feel a new space growing in me. I feel healthier, more alive, and more hopeful...yes, perhaps even a bit inspired.

In May of 2013 my divorce from my husband 22 years was finalized, after a year of hard negotiating. The lawyer's office called me at work to let me know that it had been stamped by the powers that be and I let out a "whoop!" that my coworkers heard at the other end of the office. So, yes, I was relieved. Sad, confused, scared, hell...shit scared. I remember thinking that day would NEVER arrive, dreaming of all the drama being over (and of course it's not), Am I grateful? I am grateful it only last a year of hell, I am grateful that part of it is over. I still wish it never had to happen.

I was hired on with a company in a position that at the time was really perfect for me in terms of hours and work. Since then, it's only improved in how much more responsibility I've been given, the hours, and the culture within the group. I'm grateful that I was given this position because prior to that, I'd been working at a dead-end job where I felt like I was barely treading water. It's the first job I've had where I feel like an adult.

Mike was laid off and got very withdrawn and depressed. Married life was now a room-mate arrangement only. The job was wearing him down so I was relieved when it happened but also worried about him, our marriage, our financial future. As I have learned from Mike usually things come out ok in the end if you keep your head and persevere. And they did. I have renewed faith in ourselves.

Rowan was born! This was the most significant experience I have ever had. It has forever changed my life, and I am grateful for the experience. The truth is, that it has been a difficult transition, but I am so so grateful and overcome with joy when I think about my little boy. Having Rowan has dramatically changed my priorities, my marriage, my family life and even how and when I work. I am proud of myself for handing everything as wel as I have, despite the complete upheaval. It will only get easier and then harder again, I am sure. And I realize that I cannot be prepared for it. I am surrendering to it, because as with my labor and delivery, preparation only leads to disappointment, frustration and confusion. Surrendering is hard, but I will try. Parenting requires you to be nimble, I think. I am learning as I go. But boy, am lucky and grateful to have a happy and healthy baby boy.

My dad got a 40,000 pay cut per year and it has greatly impacted my life. i now do not take anything for granted, and everything i do get, i take very well care of. it has opened my eyes to the world.

My son started to walk. It made life more fun. I love being outside and I am grateful that he does too. It is a relief that he can move around in wet weather. I do not resent anything. His curiosity for life and new things is inspiring.

I started back to grad school this year after being away from college since the late 90s. There's a certain amount of stress and excitement about going back to school, and doing something out of the ordinary.

I moved halfway across the country to my wife's hometown. I didn't really want to, and my family (away from whom I was moving) didn't want me to, but in a purely rational way it seemed like the most sensible choice. It seems to have worked out for the best, but required working through a lot of emotional issues and resentment. I learned that even if something is the most rational choice, emotion, not reason, is the currency of human relationships, and while it's important to be rational about big life decisions, it's equally if not more important to consider the emotional effects of them on oneself and those one cares about.

Last year started with a particularly bad birthday, which falls on the fall equinox. It wasn't anything in particular, I was just unhappy. I had given the day to a large public project instead of doing something to celebrate in a more private and intimate way. It got me started thinking that I have often given my energy and time to others. It is the nature of my job, marketing consultant, to make others look awesome, but it made me question why I wasn't making myself look/be awesome. Why wasn't I spending the same energy on myself. In February, I was still rattling this in my brain when I decided that I needed to make a shift. I needed to spend a portion of my time on the projects that I was cultivating in my heart. My projects. That shift has made everything seem lighter, more engaging, more fun, and the work I do with others more balanced. It was a small shift in priorities and valuing myself, but it has led to a greater appreciation for my own time and my own creativity. I am grateful the year started out with that cosmic unhappiness because, otherwise, I wouldn't have taken the time to find the root of the problem.

My trip to NYC was filled with many highs but some very significant lows. I am resentful still and I am working on this

Saw my first glacier. I was awed but can't say I was inspired.

I discovered that I have a home and a community in Philadelphia. Not a home as in a roof over my head, but a home as in where I FEEL at home. This is a great feeling. Unfortunately, I discovered this right around when I had to leave Philly. Now, as I look for jobs, I hope I can return to the place where I belong.

It probably has to be sharing my textiles and poetry, "Illuminating the Shadows", the journaling of my grief journey, on Holy Island this summer. I went not knowing if people would recognise anything in my offering but it was profound. I recognised myself for the first time in a long time and I began to realise that there was hop for life without Pat who died over 3 years ago.

My mom survived a rare skin cancer diagnosis. I'm grateful I could be there while she was evaluated and having surgery. I was not working at the time so there was no divided attention or pressing need for me to return home. I am grateful and relieved that her course of treatment only involved surgery and radiation. Had the cancer spread to her lymph system, it would have been a whole other story. I'm not super close with my mom, but this was a good chance for me to help take care of her in a meaningful way.

I turned 40. I think that an important part of this landmark birthday was coming to terms with my status as an unmarried woman in her 40s. I have more comfort acknowledging that my relationship is more like a lover relationship, AND that that is good. And that I can talk about it with Mom, and with people in general. I accept that my sexuality or relationship status is outside the norm, AND that it is acceptable. I start to wonder if this falls into the category of queer. I don't think so, but I get power from thinking that way, that my sexuality is different, and rather than feeling disempowered by society, I can increase my sense of worth by identifying with the queer community. I am resentful that my worth is less than people in traditional family units. I long to have a daily relationship with a partner. These are still struggles.

What was significant this past year were experiences that continued to reveal my Self to my self. For example, a broken elbow revealed deeper levels of humility, vulnerability and empathy. It also gave me courage to act on an idea of seeking other souls who were interested in sharing and supporting each other's spiritual journeys. From that tentative start a sisterhood of fellowship and faith has begun, growing collectively and individually. An increased level of care-giving to a brother inspired me to extend that service and become a hospice volunteer. Learning of the spiritual birth of an adult niece reminded me that living our faith every day can be a ray of light that helps others find their faith. The marriage, and birth of a son, to a nephew reminded me that the unconditional love we receive and give to others grows beyond just us. Becoming an empty-nester, again, reminded me of the eternal ebb and flow of love, of taking in and letting go. Being inspired to participate in 10Q has reminded me of the value of writing as a means of reflection and gaining perspective, continuing the pattern of revealing Self to self.

We moved our sons to a private Quaker school. We wrestled with this decision because we were educated in public schools and our parents taught in public schools, but the large classes and general chaos were not allowing our older son to learn or feel safe. I am beyond grateful that we have this option. Both boys are thriving in a warm, attentive environment with teachers who actually have time to understand their students and respond to their needs. The spiritual teachings are in line with the Reform Jewish values that we try to teach and illustrate at home.

I was promoted at work from Senior Staff Accountant to Finance Manager. The financial increase was rather significant and I now have the responsibility of two people reporting to me while keeping my same boss. The amount of work I have to do has not changed, but rather shifted. It's still more than I can handle, but that's just AGD. I like the people that report to me and I believe we'll grow into a good team. The hard part has been that we're all learning new jobs. I feel like the expectation to deliver our product is higher than our abilities can yield at this point. That can be demoralizing at times. I have no doubt that we can get to a point where we once were as a prior manifestation of this team, but it's going to take time.

I made a huge mistake with the Search Committee at Evergreen and shared an opinion that, while it was about them, wasn't theirs to do anything about. Sharing the opinion was hurtful and did some damage. I went to them and apologized for having done it and was -- after some time -- forgiven, I think. How I feel is complete. I did something wrong and did what I could to correct it. It's good to know that repentance works. It changed my relationship with those folks, with that group and with myself. I learned something important.

In the past year, my parents left my childhood home and moved to Michigan. It caused an array of emotions, including gratitude and relief - that my parents are still engaged and healthy enough in their lives to make such a big move and also that I won't have to be responsible for cleaning out my childhood home. But it also caused a major shift in our family dynamic, both geographic and emotional "Going home" is no longer a thing.

I am resentful about my loss of friendship with one girl, who was very much part of my life. I am not sure how I really could have avoided it and I'm actually happier now that she is not in it, but it still saddens me. I also feel like I'm punished when I'm being protective. That stinks as well.

In 2014, I started my own business. Eight months in, I resigned from full time employment at ARGO and started full time as a consultant. We are now about one month in and I am loving it. I cannot believe I waited so long to do it; but as with everything, it happened now for a reason. I'm mentally, emotionally, financially, and physically ready for the challenges and opportunities that go with running and growing a business. In just these first few weeks I've discovered new found strengths within myself - a stronger ability to take charge, to not be afraid of 'no', to try anyway, to ask for help - things I thought were already there, but now I know they really are!

Lost my Mom this year. I am all those things actually - grateful, relieved, resentful and inspired. Imagine that - what good fortune. Had the circumstances been any different - years together with Mom's increasing dementia - through the anger and fear of realizing it... all the way to a place where she rejoined the world and enjoyed the remaining years of her life with a smile and passion until her last breath (literally). just now, only a month out, taking in the significance of being an orphan and first up at the end of the diving board - lonely spot, just as Dad told me.

I finally got and began my student teaching placement. I'm relieved to finally be doing this, but I am and was incredibly nervous about it. I'm feeling much better about it now, and I'm really enjoying it. I feel much better about starting teaching now.

A significant experience in my past year was the celebration of my 20th wedding anniversary. Many people have been married longer - certainly many people MY age have been married longer - but it rather amazes me that we have now - and already - been married for 20 years. It seemed that I would never find that person, that relationship, since I was 42 when we met, 44 when we married. We both were 44 - and I am his third (and final!) wife! It was my second marriage, after a brief 5-year marriage when I was much younger, and following a string of myriad one-night-stands and brief relationships including one tumultuous engagement and break-up and some serious broken hearts. I had pretty much given up on finding my "soul mate" by then, but was having fun still looking. In fact, I was dating a motorcycle-driving scuba instructor 12 yrs my junior who, among other things once took me to 140 feet depth looking for hammerhead sharks in the Sea of Cortez (we didn't see any, but then, I was looking at my depth gauge the entire time anyway!). What I'm saying is that I was living a good life as an independent woman when my husband came along. I dumped the scuba instructor to be with him, but it still amazes me that our relationship has endured all this time. Not only that, but I married a man with a 12-yr old daughter (who lived with us), and so we had an instant family. Of course that came with some bumps too, being that she had to move, again, so that we could be together. That and the fact that she and I are very two distinctly different personality types. Where I liked arts & crafts, she liked shopping & makeup. But we are both good people and we managed to work through any problems inherent to family life. Our lives were fuller and more complete for one another. I remember Christmases & birthdays, talking over dinners together, nursing her through ear infections and a broken heart following a poor first choice of boyfriend, going together to choose our two cats adopted from the SPCA, meeting with guidance counselors, high school graduation, and sending her off to college. In hindsight, it all went by unbelievably quickly. When I think back on the past 20 yrs of married life, I think of setting up our home together, of going to concerts and parties with our many wonderful friends, of our first camping trip to Mt. Shasta - floating on Castle Lake on a gloriously beautiful day and spreading the Medicine Cards on a hike high in the mountains. I remember crying in bed together the morning we heard that Jerry Garcia had died. I remember our 10th anniversary dinner at Sardi's restaurant in New York. I remember buying our first home together, and then packing up all of our belongings 7 years later and moving it all to Oregon. Hard to believe it has been 20 years since we made that commitment to one another. And now we have a beautiful young grandson. I wish we lived closer to them, but we see them when we can. I do believe that I would be fine if we hadn't met and married. I would have lived a fulfilling life regardless. But I am ever so grateful that I found my husband and that he is such a wonderful, loyal, loving and fun man. He is my inspiration.

I had myself tested for the BRCA genetic failure that runs in my family and I tested negative. It felt like I had cured from a disease I had never even had. I am grateful and relieved. With this weight of insecurity of my back it feels like I can conquer the world, although I realise anyone can get cancer.

Marriage. It isn't easy but it's not hard either. It takes a right balance to make things work. I know in my relationship I give and take 90/10 and my husband gives and takes 10/90 but it works for us. I get frustrated at times when I just can't give anymore, but for the most part I'm extremely happy. I love being married and wouldn't it turn it in for the world.

Exactly a year ago I fell in love with an amazing woman. Perhaps I wasn't in love with her then, perhaps it was just that delicious mix of excitement, happiness, and desire all combined. But call it what you will, it felt wonderful. And then it didn't work out ... for a range of reasons she left painfully and suddenly. It hurt me terribly - challenged my inner strength, forced me to look at myself and my deepest fears, and perhaps most significantly, my needs in another person. What is most significant about this experience? She came back: she spent the months in between working to understand herself in the same ways I had done. And to learn how to love me in the way I needed to be loved. She came back, and I am learning forgiveness, learning to love myself alongside another person, learning that change is, in fact, possible. And that humans can continue to grow even in adulthood. I am grateful, scared, relieved, and full to the brim of love. I am slowly feeling what it's like to have my needs met, and it is nourishing in a way that could never be expected.

My partner lost all of her hair, all over her body. It is called Alopecia Arriata and is somewhat rare. Even though we finally figured out what had caused the hair loss (Parasites) despite even Mayo Clinic not being able to figure it out, her hair has still not grown back. Then her mother passed away from a very rare small cell cancer in a matter of a few weeks notice. Then we had to put our older dog down. How did it affect me??? So significantly that even now, many months later we are still trying to figure out where we are in our relationship, individually / together, future...So much has changed and seems to be unrecoverable. I am grateful that we are healthy, that we love our work, that we have family and friends that care about us, that we are connected to nature every day, that we still have our other dog in our arms every night and I am grateful for still probably sub conscience / undiscovered growth that this entire year of loss has forced us to have. Still working on what my other feelings are...I am sure there is some resentment, some relief and some light at the end of each of these tunnels...but the journey has been long and I am not sure what the next turn will unveil. Honestly, I am scared of the whole kit and caboodle, but isn't that just the whole point of life, to keep us on our toes?

My friend Sues health is declining, she called and wanted me to fly out for a visit. I cancelled some shifts and rearranged a training schedule despite the consequence. It was the best thing I have done. We had a wonderful visit and it filled my heart with joy to watch this completely disable women, for all kinds of reasons, should be unhappy, but instead she is full of joy, adventure and love. Truly an amazing women. This trip also brought me closer to my God Son Logan.

Breaking up and ending a long-term relationship is the most significant experience of my year. It really led me through an emotional journey, and I learned so much about myself. I am stronger, more resilient, and more of myself. I am so grateful for the entire experience, both the relationship and the aftermath. Without both, I would not have been led to so many great people and experiences.

Robin Williams and Philip Seymour Hoffman died this year. This might seem trivial to others, but it has profoundly impacted me. These are two actors who I admired greatly and they weren't able to keep their shit together. I'm angry at them and angry at myself for being angry at them because they were ill...but I can be angry at someone for getting sick, right? I'm aware that it wasn't their choice, but I can still be angry.

I bought my first house, at age 26. There were a variety of reasons, the main ones being that it was cheaper to have a mortgage than rent, it's hard to have big dogs in rental places that aren't total crap, and I like the idea of being able to do whatever I want to the place, instead of dealing with the gross beige walls and needing to move every year. Plus I hate having wall-sharing neighbors. It was a fun experience -I liked looking at all the houses, but also frustrating since I didn't have the money to get into the area I wanted without buying something that needed a lot of work, which I didn't have the money or time to do. Thankfully, I ended up with an adorable house with only cosmetic changes needed like paint colors. I have a nice yard for the dogs, and live in a reasonably safe neighborhood with an amazing roommate. It's made me more aware of my budget, and given me something to do when I get home and on weekends, like painting, yard work, etc.

J changed daycares. At ACM we had to bring all her food and she was frequently crying when I went to pick her up. At the new daycare, she often isn't done with what she's doing when I come to get her, and doesn't want to leave. She'll even just say, 'Bye!' as we drop her off (no more clinging and screaming). It's a much longer time for her in the car, but the joy has been so worth it. When I pick her up she's usually dirty from all the fun she's had, tired from a day of active play. Life has been so much less stressful with her happier.

I decided to divorce my wife. She has serious mental health issues and has become emotionally abusive to our child. I'm still neck deep in the process and the past few weeks have been among the hardest times in my life. But I know that I'm doing the right thing for my boy and myself. I am profoundly relieved. I'm also exhausted, nervous, broke, resentful, hurt, and any number of other emotions, it changes by the hour.

Traveling to Southeast Asia was an incredible experience that made me feel incredibly grateful to be able to travel and see other parts of the world. Meeting people whose lives have been so different from mine is so valuable. The trip allowed Jason and I to grow closer and really sink into the present moment.

This last year I functioned as a grown up, and then left my job, and took the leap to make a change. I followed my heart to continue traveling and it has lead me to be so much more self confident and steady on my feet. I know I am not only going to be fine, but I am going to thrive because I have the courage to change what isn't working. I also lost about 12 pounds, which was hard work and totally worth it, it really showed me that if you focus and are completely real about things, the process works

I went on Ramah Israel Seminar and I made some the most amazing friends. It wasn't a specific time it was the entire 10 days in Poland and 6 weeks in Israel. I am so grateful that I got the opportunity to go on that trip. It affected me because now I think that I am more prepared to be a counselor at camp and now I have friends all over the country.

My husband lost his job. It has been stressful at times but was the best thing that could have happened to him. He hated where he was & what he was doing but didn't feel he could leave. It's funny how things happen & when you reflect back you realise there was a reason behind it.

My vipassana retreat. It helped push me towards the direction I already wanted to go with my life. More calmness, more compassion for all living creatures, and a spiritual practice I could use daily. I was drawn to the retreat after "asking" for months what can I do with my life to go the direction I want. When I came across a review of a the 10 day meditation online I began to feel tears coming to my eyes and I knew that was a sign that I needed to do it. Normally I don't get these signs or omens and if I did I don't usually follow them. Going forward I'm living my life much more based on the feelings I get moment to moment. I'm very grateful for these insights, but even with them it hasn't always been an easy path.

The untimely passing of my childhood best friend has been traumatic. Going back to my hometown for the funeral was a surreal experience of basking in the warm memories of the past with my oldest friends and family and feeling the sharp pain of the present with a young woman's sudden death. I've been feeling lots of regret for not staying in touch as much as I should have, not creating opportunities to see her because I thought we had time to get together....

We moved to a wonderful new home - and the unexpected part of it that has been particularly wonderful is that we are now part of a new neighborhood and community. I craved this, but didn't know until we found it.

My father fell ill this year and it really changed the way I looked at him. He was always a rather frightening, stern, dominant figure in the family... so seeing him with grey hair, sat in the operation theatre waiting room making nervous chit chat and genuinely looking scared was very humbling and somewhat upsetting.

This has been a year of changes, so I'm not sure if I can narrow this down to only one significant experience. For starters, in December I started taking testosterone. Which means that by the time you read this, you'll have been on it for almost TWO YEARS. Wow. This was such a good choice, and I'm so freaking glad that Outside In was able to help me with my transition. I've turned into a much calmer, happier person, and I feel like the world around me is starting to make a lot more sense than it used to. Secondly, my name change went legal around Easter, and that's been a huge relief as well. I've got my name mostly ironed out with all the different things that use it, though there's still the occasional glitch here and there. It's so nice to not have to be called "Ms. Jacobsma" everywhere I go, ugh. Third, I spoke at TEDxYouth@Portland this summer. That was intense! I was so scared I would mess it up, or that I was saying stuff that I myself didn't believe. Overall though, it seemed to have gone pretty well, and the people who were there said I brought down the house. Still waiting for them to upload the video, though! And finally, we moved into our apartment just a couple months ago. YAY! Finally! It's taken us a couple years since moving to Portland, but we actually finally managed to do it. I'm still a little in shock, really. It almost doesn't entirely feel real yet that we're not still homeless. But still, it's not a bad thing to feel shock over, all the same.

While in Israel I had to accompany my boyfriend while he took his mother to the emergency room. This experience taught me a few very important things. Navigating a foreign emergency room (note that I had never been to the emergency room before, not even in America) under pressure forced me to be assertive and fearless. Suddenly there was no time to worry if my Hebrew wasn't good enough - I had to try to speak and understand as much as I could. Watching my boyfriend's dedication to taking care of his mother, holding it together in order to be her strength, to talk to the doctors for her, all while inside he was seriously freaking out. Later this year I found myself back in the US and with my own grandfather in the hospital. Throughout the entire experience, and even now while still taking care of him in-home, I exhibit some of the things I learned from that frightening experience in Israel. Sometimes we have to remind ourselves of our own strength because those we care about are in need of it even more than we are.

My breakup with Jacqueline and the details of my emotional reaction have been well-documented elsewhere; at the very least I feel like I've adequately described the arc of my feelings throughout the bulk of that process. Today I feel like that's almost entirely beyond me, even if I'm not quite sure how things would go if I were to run into her again. I feel pretty good most of the time. I feel productive and healthy. I feel reasonably enthused about dating again. And I've taken to wondering what it is I want most from my relationships right now. I'm hungry for new energy-- novelty and dynamism, and I've been recognizing a lot of the value in relationships that don't really fit my historical mold. Whether this will blossom into something as of yet undiscovered or see me return gradually to my past patterns of functioning I can't say, but I'm excited for the possibilities of the former. I'm only getting better, right?

A significant experience that happened this past year was my Europe trip with my daughter. It affected me because I was able to see so many possibilities that I didn't see before. I was grateful to spend 10 days with my daughter and see sites that were magnificant. The trip inspired me to do more good for the world and to find important issues to advocate for.

This has been a tumultuous year so it is difficult to answer with the requisite degree of specificity. I got engaged and bought a house with my fiancee. My father's health began failing rapidly. My first-born son, who has been a special education student all his life, has gone through the college application process and ended up at a terrific school where I'm unsure if he'll succeed. My younger brother, with whom I had a terrible falling out maybe fifteen years ago in part because of the undiagnosed mental illness of his wife, has nursed his ex-then wife through her final months of cancer and, in the wake of her passing, we are now reconciled and building a new relationship. I suppose if I had to choose one, two weeks away from my wedding, it would be that such an extraordinary woman loves me enough to marry me, something I am grateful for every day, and which makes me aspire to be a better man and partner.

My divorce. The divorce didn't affect me as much as the marriage itself did. I am walking away with a thread of self-worth and a self-image that will take some time to recover. I am grateful that I got out when I did. I grateful that I have my kid's respect and love still. I am grateful for a somewhat smooth transition into single parenthood. I have to feel the full impact of being relieved. Since I have nothing but negative experiences for the past 20 years it's hard to answer that question as I have nothing to measure the degree of relief I may or may not have. I am glad that I do not have to hear all the negative comments and relieved to be in control of what is reality. I am resentful of the fact that I have to remain connected to this other person. Especially monetarily. This person was able to gain financial security on the basis of lies. It is tremendously frustrating to walk the right path to only have a person take advantage of you for walking it. Inspired? Personally, that is an aspect of my life that is currently adrift on a black sea. Professionally, I am inspired to help people create resonant tones of inspiration, mastery, and empathic living. I am also inspired to be a great parent to my two amazing kids.

This past year has seen work as a contractor become more like the typical contractor stress level. We don't know if we will remain at our current jobs. Friends who we have worked with are losing their jobs. I am resentful, of course. Resigned. I am trying to look at this as a springboard for accepting change.

Becoming more involved with my artistic career aspirations has me feeling grateful.

great sex i love it!!!!

This whole year has been about recovering from my breakup. My answers from last year, submitted about two weeks after my breakup, was so brave but so naive. I thought I could skip the whole process of grieving and just go straight to closure. I wanted to be finished with the pain so badly. I'm still working my way through this mess. The whole experience has made me so much more sensitive and, I hope, empathetic. All of my feelings are so close to the surface now--especially the sadness, it's so easy to conjure. But I know how far I am from where I was this time last year. Thank God!

We dealt with a particularly challenging situation at work and despite the pain it took us to a better place. I am reminded that the storm is always hard to get through but there is ALWAYS sunshine and better conditions once God gets us through.

One of our cockatoos, Crackers, died around the American Thanksgiving time. My husband never really had pets before, and never had to deal with the loss of one, so he has taken it very hard over the last year. Part of me felt so empathetic for him, and some of me wanted to tell him to get out of his funk. (He has never experienced naming an animal, raising it, and eating it a few months later, as farm folks do.) I hate that Crackers died, but our other Cockatoo, Loki, is thriving. Crackers had the equivalent of a bird mental illness--she pecked herself to death. Struggling with mental illness myself, I feel a connection to her spirit, that my husband cannot. I am so mixed--grateful, relieved, yet resentful. But I guess the mix of those feelings make the best feelings to reflect upon.

I rode the AIDS LifeCycle for the 5th time, my first in 7 years. It was... Hard. A wake up call. Deeply moving. Inspiring. Fun. Tiring. Silly. Joyous. Important. We signed up for next year while still on this year's ride. Becuase we have to do something. Anything.

There are a few things that happened in this last year that have changed my day to day. 1. The fostering/adoption option, that we had started last year, exploded. I freaked out. I realized that I had been fighting the meltdown nearly from the get-go, but I didn't want to disappoint John. So, instead of being open and honest with him, I let it build up to the point of no return. I learned that I need to trust my instincts and be open with how I feel. In the long run, we will be better off. 2. Lots of things changed at work. My "boss," along with others, left. It put me in a new position which came with added responsibilities. It was hard, but a lot of fun. I showed me that I am capable of more than I think, and that hardwork does pay off. 3. Finally, I listened to a devtional about time and realized that my days are numbered, and I need to use the time I have to God's glory. If I died tomorrow, would I be ashamed to stand before Jesus and explain what I had down the day before??

I moved in with a woman that is in the process of divorce. I knew shortly after meeting her that she was the best person for me that I ever met. She was in a relationship that had died long ago but I always told her I was not the man to leave her husband for; alternatively, I would be there for her if she choose to leave. We've struggled with her daughter but she has grown significantly closer to her son. I feel bad that I can't connect with the daughter and know that causes her sadness. I hope one day she will see the happiness that I bring her mother and any fears she has of her mother being hurt pass. My mother engaged with a man when I was 16 and I never grew close to him. That relationship was frequently acrimonious and I hope to avoid that at all costs.

BIRTHRIGHT! It changed my life. I couldn't be more grateful for that experience. It changed my world and opened me to new heights. The friendships I gained on that trip weren't just friendships; they were deep enough to constitute family. Not having been raised in a Jewish home, the relationships to the fellow Birthright participants, the Israelis on our trip, and the homeland itself shifted something deep inside of me. Birthright was incredible. Coming home was so very hard because now I know I am missing a piece of my soul, a piece that I hadn't been connected with until my time in the homeland with 40 of the most amazing people I am blessed to have in my life.

I was once again caught in a financial disagreement with my ex-husband. It was the fourth or fifth time he has threatened to sue me since we have been divorced. (Over 19 years) It made me feel weak, and attacked. It made me feel scared and unsure. But the next day I saw a lawyer and it was " handled" fairly quickly. The response letter cost me $300 which is a pittance compared to the thousands of dollars his other lawsuits have cost me. I want this harassment to end. I want a time to come when I don't hate him. This was different in another way. I told my now adult children about what was happening. Maybe I shouldn't have because they are now both estranged from thier dad. And that is something I never wanted to happen. BUt I told them the truth. I feel awful about it and ashamed that we can't be like all the other post divorced "families" but then again, I didn't threaten him with a lawsuit.

I took an unexpected trip to Germany last month, and it seems very significant. I'm wondering if a recency bias is in effect, but I'm gonna go with it. The trip itself was amazing, just what I'd hoped for when my good friend invited me along last minute - completely un-touristy, an immersion in culture (the language, the food, the friends and family, the accommodations, the small town, ...) that I can't ever seem to find when I'm traveling on my own. We were busier than I'd expected (so much for lazy strolls in the woods and getting through that novel), but I felt so well taken care of - our hosts were so kind. My friendship with M was changed, deepened in a way that perhaps only travel can make happen. And my dreams for living abroad... well, they seem more real than ever. I'm grateful. And inspired. Changed, is what I've been saying these past few weeks. And I'm wondering. Where will all of this lead?

I think my grandmother's illness has been the most defining event of the past year. She probably doesn't have much time left, and her illness has a profound impact on my grandfather. I am thankful that we got to see her in NJ in the summer, but she has been suffering for too long.

Our niece not only decided to go live with her father, but necessitated a costly custody battle in court with my sister and parents, with whom she had been living. She even said to my parents that she had the power to put them through that court battle and gladly would do so. It is very hard not to feel enmity toward her, that she has willfully caused my family emotionally and financially. I will try to be better than that, and actually address her directly (in the right way) to accomplish t'shuvah.

no significant experience

I decided to step down from my position at work. Overall, a positive decision based on a positive process but definitely had to work through a few issues on the way there.

I was diagnosed with skin cancer and am now cancer free. I am so insanely grateful for every day and for my loved ones. I feel lucky to have caught it in time and I feel a new sense of clarity around what's important in life.

Learning the writing craft while having my first children's book edited/critiqued. It has been an emotional rollercoaster ride and tested my determination and resolve. I am extremely grateful for the learning experience, especially now the book is so close to completion. Despite all my hard work though I know some will like it while others will hate it.

I attended the funeral and shiva of a friend's parent. We used to be very close, but have not really spoken in a few years and I still don't know why she has shut me out. This made me realize that the friendship is over and it is time to move on.

My father had been living with my family (husband and 3 small kids) for the past year and I was responsible for caring for him. He experienced a terrible fall in the Spring which landed him in the hospital and eventually a long-term care facility. We realized it was not safe to have him return to live with us and it was a relief to know that I would no longer have to manage another person - their medications, food, cleaning, dealing with their hygiene, etc. I felt a lot of guilt in the beginning because I should be able to care for my father but that gave away to a sense of relief that I could instead focus on my relationship with my husband and my kids.

Had to choose between taking an exam or a job, which kind of meant standing at the crossroads of life. Took the job and never looked back. I feel more at ease now, because I was losing my patience with life. Making more money(=independance) and no stress.

We lost my husband's father this year. It was a tremendous shock to us all and one from which we are still recovering. He was an extraordinary man of faith, and in losing him we have experienced each of the suggested emotions. So grateful for having known and loved him--to have been loved by him. Also grateful for the unquestionable presence and peace of Jesus that has sustained us in this time of grief. I am relieved to have moved past the resentment and anger over losing my father-in-law. And I am so inspired by the generosity of strangers, the closeness of friendships, the mending of family bonds, and the certainty of my faith all of which I can appreciate at new depths because of this tragedy.

When I was parked at my son's Jewish Day School, a man pulled up behind me in an ice cream van and got out. I was annoyed because he was blocking my way, but thought perhaps he didn't see me, so I said, "Excuse me...." He jumped out of the van and started saying I looked like a very nice person, and went on a rant about praying and Allah. He was dressed in traditional Muslim clothes. After this rant, he got in his van and drove off. I reported it to the school who reported it to the authorities. Soon after he was gone, I started to feel afraid. I felt angry that a Muslim man would do this at a Jewish school, if only because of the stereotyping involved. I was upset that I couldn't tell a lot of my friendship circle as they would go straight for the "hate crime" angle of things, when in reality I have no idea what it was about. He spoke so fast and his accent was so thick I caught only a few words, and I was really just still wondering what he wanted. It wasn't until later that I realized my son and I could have been in danger. So I'm very frustrated that my son has to go to a school with bars, a secure entry gate, and buses that can only say "Private School" instead of "Jewish Day School." I'm mad that something so stereotypical happened to me, when I like to believe the best in everyone. I'm scared that man will be back again.

Due to an old back injury, I was unable to walk more than a few feet at a time for several months. I am incredibly grateful for a loving, supportive, patient husband who stood in stark contrast to many former men in my life who'd have been impatient with me and more than a little irritated at the inconvenience.

We moved into this incredibly beautiful house that will only be ours for a year. I plan to enjoy every moment of it.

An old friend came back into my life. He is an alcoholic and had hit rock bottom, homeless and jobless. He needed help from someone who cared, even though I had written him off because of his drinking. I spent a lot of time and money helping him. Today, he has made great improvement, mainly thanks to me and another friend taking the time to give him a hand up. I thank God for the opportunity to help him. I'm disappointed, though, because I don't think it has rekindled our friendship; he's a different person, even when sober.

I've been very busy juggling work, school and TLS . I was happy but also frustrated and tired, the stress and pressure hunted me. I am grateful that these happened but at the same time relieved that both school and TLS are finished, almost in terms of grad school. And I just need to focus on my career, on what I want to do for the rest of my life, or simply searching for my passion.

In the past year I took a semester off from college to work on a campaign. It was the biggest leap of faith I've had to take thus far in my life, and it was also the most rewarding. It was tumultuous and exhausting and personally draining but I've never felt more confident in myself. I learned to say yes to opportunities and to make the effort to make achieving my goals plausible.

My first baby was born! At last I have experienced what unconditional love really means. She's funny, intelligent, curious, cheerful and still a tiny human being. We're starting to be a family.

my mother, who has alzheimer's, has continued to decline. Faster than we would've thought -- this spring we turned a corner where she no longer knows who i am, doesn't know that my sister and i are her daughters. we've been losing her for awhile, but this was a profound shift. Emotional impact has been hard... feelings of loss, grief, and anger that this is happening to her, at a relatively young age. Mourning not just the losing of her, but also so sad that my son will never really know how amazing she was when she was herself.

The deaths of Robin Williams and Joan Rivers this past year really affected me. These were people who were not old and decrepit and waiting to pass away. These were thriving comedians (or so it appeared) who had endured long life battles of various sorts. Their deaths -- one of Robin Williams regarding his inability to live with the thought of living with Parkinson's disease -- and one of Joan Rivers which was the result of a simple outpatient biopsy -- brought front and center some of the topics I talk about professionally and quietly in my personal sphere of inner circle friends who seek out my support. It made me also realize how important it is that I share the positive side of living life with others through my platform. It means a lot to me to brighten up others. It also means a lot to me to remind people that we don't have as much time as we think we do in this life. Too often I see people not celebrating their lives, not being with the ones they love, not taking the time to focus on the dreams they have. It is not about doing these things later; it is about balancing your life so you get to experience what you want in this life. This is pivotal for me -- and front and center. I'm so grateful that my priorities are spending time with Andy Akers and celebrating our good fortune and extraordinary times together -- and taking care of my good health so I can spend as much time with him as I possibly can in this life.

I tried to kill myself. At first I was disappointed that I failed and now that's mixed with relief now that I've met my boyfriend James. He makes me so happy and I'm glad I met him.

I spoke openly about struggling with depression. I was relieved to have it in the open and grateful for the supportive response from my friends.

Nothing major this past year that I would call significant. Saw my parents a few times this year. Was sad to see the downhill turn my mother has made cognitively - between March and August I've seen a noticeable decline. Father is an alcoholic with no desire to change. Kind of sad seeing your parent's mortality becoming more and more obvious

My wife was hospitalized, and had surgery. This was the second major hospitalization in two years. I was affected because she needed so much more of my time to care for her, as her recovery to full activity was slow and difficult. I was also affected because it made me aware of two things; 1) how grateful I am for my own good health, and 2) how much closer to her I feel, as a result of having been able to care for her in her time of need. I am relieved that she is doing well now, and I am grateful to have had the good health and opportunity to allow me to care for her.

Passed Detailed Design Review. Major Milestone at work. Not grateful or relieved or resentful. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and a certain self confidence that I did not have before.

i went to the Summer Writers conference at SUNY Southampton. it made me realize how much I love writing and the atmosphere of writer and successful and experienced writers. i am so glad I went . so grateful that I took the leap and gave my self permission to do it. to spend he $$. to take off from work. it is a bit like falling in love. but I am now in the process of applying to the MFA program and it is likely that i will be rejected. i have thought of not applying because I am not up to their caliber. but if i were to be accepted i wonder how it would change my daily life. ny weekly life. my winters, summers.

I've continued to enjoy my job! It has been a huge relief for me since I was in jobs/had bosses that were incredibly stressful. It's so nice to be able to tell people that you are happy in your job, when they ask. It seems that people aren't expecting that answer, and almost don't know what to say back. I wish more people could be happy in their jobs - it's a great feeling!

My husband's cancer came back in September last year & he had a Bone Marrow Transplant in April. Initially he pushed me away which was very sad, hurtful, confusing & disappointing - I didn't see that reaction coming. It made me feel insecure about our relationship & I lost trust in Tony. I tried to understand his fear and anger. I resolved to give him space & support. He's still in hospital as I write. He's open now & I feel loved again, but still wary. The prognosis is positive, but unpredictable & precarious. I'm overwhelmingly grateful to Tony's donor & medical team - how very lucky we are to have access to these services

I could not cope with work--paperwork part. I was confused, disorganized, and did not complete a bunch of what I was supposed to do. I have never been like this in my job before. I felt mentally and physically drained a large part of the last year. I have begun to get things back together, so the work is not so overwhelming. It is still very hard to do and keep organized things that just came naturally to me a couple years ago, but I am glad that I am taking steps to get back on track.

My life unraveled in New York - I lost my job, my boss (whom I liked) died suddenly, my 4 year relationship crumbled. Breaking up was the hardest, by far. We had been best friends, living together for much of our relationship. We had lost our physical intimacy. Neither of us knew how to fix things. We struggled. Ultimately, he ended it and found someone new. Or maybe it was the other way around. So much loss and I just didn't know what to do. Somehow in the fog of grief. I decided to leave New York. My dream city. I found work in my hometown in Southern California, packed up my things, and said goodbye to a hand full of close friends. The days following were emotional roller coasters filled with sadness, regret, anger, heartbreak, and a significant lack of appetite.

I have been participating since April in a Phase 1 drug study for an MS drug that focuses on repairing the myelin. Though there are no direct benefits for me in participating, it is an exciting and groundbreaking treatment modality for an illness that affects me and millions of others around the world.

It was our 5th wedding anniversary. We have now been married longer than I was with my late husband in total. It seems weird and wrong that I only had 5 years with the love of my life and yet life goes on afterwards, and I have survived, remarried and even enjoyed life since.

Ever since our daughter was born, the question of whether we would have another baby has been on our minds and often in the questions of our friends and family. She's such a great kid, was a delightful baby, why wouldn't we want to do it again? Well, I don't want to. For all the wonderful things about motherhood that I appreciate and love, and I love my daughter with an intensity that scares me sometimes, I did not find pregnancy to be a joyful time. I was sick, I got fat and unwieldy, I was depressed. The depression lasted well after she was born, my body never fully recovered (not just my appearance, but chronic back and hip pain), and while I wouldn't want to give up the experience (I learned a lot about myself) I really am not up for it again. So when we accidentally didn't take all the right precautions a few months ago, I really freaked out. I worried for 36 hours, and then made the terribly difficult decision to take Plan B. I told D about it; I tried to let him have a say in the choice, but I really wasn't going to change my mind. What came next was two of the hardest weeks I've ever had, including the PPD. He went out of town for work, V had her birthday, and I experienced the most amazingly awful hormonal shifts. I was weepy, worried, anxious, terrified - and all the while, I was also aware that while D agrees that our life is great as it is, he was disappointed. He had experienced a glimmer of hope for a baby, and he didn't mind the idea. And I had crushed his hope. I am still in mourning, not for the baby that wasn't but for that moment when I realized I had hurt D. My heart aches when I think of it. And I know that the reason I regret hurting him is that I love him so much. But even knowing he wants another baby isn't enough to convince me I do.

Finally, I seem to have been able to get beyond my various addictions and into the space of living a full, "clean" life again. The most interesting part of that for me was coming to a greater awareness of thoroughly my addictions have controlled my life over the years, in subtle ways that I wasn't even conscious of as it was happening. Addictions take away choice, and when you don't have agency in how your life is headed, you assume what you're doing is the only way to proceed. Addiction makes you myopic, and utterly unable to see that there are more paths than you first perceive. I feel relieved and grateful, to be sure, but I also feel apprehensive, because relapsing into addiction is extraordinarily easy, and staying strong is hard.

Learning for sure that I'm not halachicaly Jewish. I was sad but now I'm enrolled in Conversion classes, so you can say it inspired me.

I attended my 40th high school reunion. I was not anxious at all. I met some new friends and classmates I barely new, and renewed old acquaintances. It was genuinely fun. I am glad I went, and sorry I didn't make more of an effort to attend other class reunions. It used to make me a little anxious to think about going.

Becoming an aunt was the most significant experience of my life thus far. It is so surreal to be so in love with my tiny little niece, and to know that she's my family, and I will always be able to be there with and for her.

Two events come to mind--one was the train trip to Portland, which reminded me of how free I can feel, how creative the excursion of life can be. Even in just a few brief days. The second is the Concentration Retreat, which was more impacted by work than even the previous three retreats, working about 36 hours over the retreat, having to hide in the upstairs meditation hall closet to connect with my cell phone tether for emergency updates. It was cruel, and I did not get much enjoyment at all from the retreat, but it reminded me, again, that living in samadhi is a path to freedom, one which I wish to pursue, and which does not get deeply impacted even by highly stressful work.

I left 2 jobs in order to make a new career. When I left the first job - it was scary and I wasn,t 100% sure that that's what I needed to do. But I did it it anyway because there is no time like present to achieve my goals. When I left my second job I felt relieved - it was not good for me, for my soul or for making my new career. I felt grateful that I had the courage to leave.

A significant experience from the past year... Well, a year ago, I was experiencing a particularly severe depression, and it was a turning point where I began proactively seeking healing of deep, old wounds in my heart and psyche. I started the process of going to therapy, and I have continued to attend every week for a whole year. (I told my counselor on the first day "I don't know what therapy -can- do for me, but if it can do anything, I want it to.") I also began the process of writing a memoir of my life for therapeutic reasons. Writing about life's experiences from my point of view and speaking my innermost feelings aloud has been exceptionally healing, and enlightening. I have been validated again and again through this decision to learn and embrace VULNERABILITY (everyone should read Brene Brown's Daring Greatly). I am much more emotionally resilient, confident and content, more able to receive support if I need it, and I'm learning self-love. Wholeheartedness. And yes, 10Q, I -am- feeling -grateful- and continually -inspired- by the expanding capacity for love, grace, creativity and authenticity that has taken place this last year.

I was part of an exciting artshow where I had to stretch my talents far beyond my comfort zone. It was deeply inspiring and led to new understandings about my creativity and talent.

My husband asked me to sleep with other people as part of our sexplay. At first he explained it as a way to enhance our experience together, that we could include others, but later it became clear he merely enjoyed the thought of me with other people and might want to watch or participate. When I objected he shrugged and explained that since I had no prior experience I might as well experiment and it should be all about me. I explored a bit with flirting and allowing myself to be attracted to others. It felt strange and fun and exciting and uncomfortable and dirty simultaneously. When it seemed to be heading toward a reality, an actually meeting with someone rather than texting, I balked. I told him I no longer wanted to continue. He said okay but then persisted in including others in our sexplay, asking me to take others to bed, commanding me to do things and prompting me to acquiesce as we were intimate. I balked again. He explained patiently that this was for me and I should feel free to take this chance to explore as life is short and this is all we have. He would be an asshole, he said, for being okay with me sleeping around and not telling me so. I explored. I trysted with someone. It felt easy but not magical. There was no spark and no love and no enjoyment for me. I did not like the feeling. I told him so. I told him what I had done. He became livid, telling me I had chosen the wrong person, and that if the marriage were solid this should be fun for me. I told him the marriage no longer felt solid. Now he says the "game" should be over and suggests that if I am having trouble coping I should seek help. I am confused and upset and want to be enough for the person I am with. I want to find a soulmate, a life partner with whom I can be satisfied and who can be satisfied with me. I realize now that the only reason I pursued any form of flirting or relationship with another person was that I was looking for the love that is missing in my marriage. I think it is time for me to leave this marriage and be on my own for a while. Find my footing. Maybe find True Love.

Because Day 3's question speaks on family, I will write about Joshua Amrani. In the midst of he most chaotic life, I met the love of my life, the man I want to spend the rest of my life standing right next to. He is perfect, for me. We speak the same language-- we're such effective communicators that we've never had a real argument/fight. He's loving, kind, and thoughtful. I couldn't have asked for anyone better to love me. He is continually thinking about others; he's insanely smart and attractively good looking. I want to spend the right of my life existing alongside him. A lot has happened this year. I really don't even know which experience to select. The day after Sparkle Party and the afternoon after celebrating Ashley's wedding shower, my dad told me he had had a multiple year affair with a hair dresser. To say that that moment was anything other than fatal, would be an understatement. I've always known my parents had a functional marriage, and, for the most part, they were exceptional parents. I've also always known I didn't want their kind of love, their kind of marriage. You know, if my dad had come home one day and said I want a divorce, I think we'd all be in shock, but eventually, we would all come to accept it and go through the process in a healing kind of way. But, the fact that my dad cheated on my mom for YEARS and did not even tell her (she found out) is BEYOND ME. To think my dad had the audacity to go through this for years is insane. This has changed not just the course of our family's future, but it also makes me second guess the past few years. The heartbreak that he's bestowed on our family is some what unrepairable, and I don't know if he will ever feel the weight of his actions. I hate him as my mother's ex-husband; I am TRULY disappointed in the man who is my father. He is so pathetic; it's sad. And, at the end of the day, my mom will come out on top (financially, she already is) and my dad will be alone. I want a marriage that makes my kids want to be married.

I ended a long-term relationship with my first love. We grew through our twenties together and got pretty close to starting the rest of our lives together. But my fears got in the way of letting go and trusting her fully. So I ended the relationship. At first, I felt great about it. I felt free of the fear and pressure that I put on myself to be and do more than I thought I was capable of at the time. But as time passed, I realized what I let go of and why. I understood that I allowed fear to get in the way of a fantastic friendship and relationship. While understand that a relationship involves two people, and she was complicit in all of this, I haven't forgiven myself for my shortcomings.

I started painting. I've always wanted to, but I never thought I could do it. You see, I'm very afraid of making mistakes. I became friends with an artist, and with a lot of coaching and encouragement, I put paint to canvas. That painting is hanging up in a show right this very minute!

Realized how badly I treated women in my life. Regretful, resigned.

I got a new job and now have health insurance. I am so relieved, because my husband has a neuro-muscular disease and it was terrifying not to have insurance.

In February I attempted suicide. I started 2014 off by totaling my car, breaking up with my boyfriend, and falling into a deep depression. I tried to access medication to alleviate my symptoms, but it gave me insomnia and I began dreaming of overdosing on heroine. In February, after a particularly awkward social encounter that shook my already-failing self-confidence, I thought it'd be best if I ended my life. A terminated practicum, some hefty medical bills, and some shaken friendships later, I found myself diagnosed with bipolar II and not quite sure how to proceed. Having a diagnosis made things feel lighter, but I still felt one step away from a mental breakdown. Looking back, I feel so grateful for the terminated practicum, for the new opportunities that the termination allowed me, and the perspective looking death in the face has given me. I am a better social worker, a more compassionate friend, and have a different appreciation for struggle, suicide, and emotional disappear. I wish I could take back the pain and fear my suicide attempt caused my friends and family, but I am grateful to know what rock bottom feels like and to know I can overcome.

A significant experience that has happened to me this year is taking on a new job which i knew was going to be hard and out of the box. i went to work at a cafe nearby a classy town. i worked behind a busy counter learning lots of new things to do. although they let me go after 2 weeks, it still was an awesome experience. i got affected by finding out that my courage was not far from me. And i am very grateful. i understand now how its always been within me!

The most significant experience that happened this past year is that my youngest daughter went to a residential treatment center out of state. As I write this, she has been there nearly seven months. This has affected me in a lot of different ways: (1) It broke the downward spiral of negative behavior and is allowing her to heal and us to connect with her in new and healthier ways, (2) It's allowing my husband and me to have some time alone together - something we have rarely had in 33 years of marriage, and (3) It's given me a opportunity to step back and look at my own life - what does "a life worth living" look like for me at this stage? I feel relieved that she is getting the help she needs and grateful that we are able to do this for her and our family.

I got into graduate school, and then moved into my first apartment where I pay rent and bills and stuff. I'm proud of myself but I'm also worried about life. This change has made me realize how incapable I am in life. I am constantly tired and feel unable to handle being an adult. Maybe that's the point? Idk. I should be proud. This was my main goal for last year

A wonderful woman has come into my life. I am grateful, relieved and inspired to be a better person by her. There are times I am resentful over how much she can get me to do for her so easily and how little she does for me.

mixed bag

Within this past year? The peace. The priority shift.

I moved to a different State and changed High Schools, I left the friends I had for many years and the idea of trying to make new ones terrified me. The first few months were torture. Every lunch I spent hiding and in class I was mute. At first, I felt depressed and angry though slowly but surely I gained two amazing friends. Though one of them moved to another state and left just the two of us, we remained connected, which taught me that though I am gone, it doesn't mean I should lose the people I hold close to my heart. Im grateful for this experience because it taught me how to become more social, it taught me that in the end everything would turn out all right.

I met Adam just over six months ago. We had a relationship that moved fast; almost as if we skipped the 'getting-to-know-you' part and jumped right to spending every night together. The issue with that is many things went left unsaid and we fell into a sort of awkward situation which caused me to blurt out a question of exclusivity. We then broke up due to his 'ambivalence' and my need for certainty. We reunited three (long) weeks later and I was unbelievably happy. This time it was said right away, by Adam , that it was just us and "everyone" knew. I was sure I had met the person I would spent my life with. One (short) month later, after a vacation together, after meeting member of his family over the phone, Adam told me once again that he did not 'feel good' about our relationship. He is still in love with an ex-girlfriend who lives in a another country and despite their relationship being 'untenable' he was unwilling to be anything that did not feel "that way." That was two months ago. We have seen each other once, when I lost my job and felt that I needed to reach out. I still think about this everyday and vacillate between sadness, hopefulness and the occasional resentment

Only THE most significant experience I've ever experienced. My child was born. She has lit up my life all over again. I am anew. I am overcome with gratefulness, relief, and joy. It's pretty indescribable.

This year was very momentous with relationships in my life, in that I severed ties with people that at certain times were very important to me, and which despite it all, one still is. I last spoke to Katia on April 3rd of 2014. She never replied to my email and I knew the silence would last for a long time. It lasted 5 months and 1 day. After seeing Cantinflas's new movie, and discovering he had married a Russian woman, I dreamt of her all night and later posted a message in my Instagram which read: "J'ai rêve de toi tout la nuit. Tu me manque." She texted me two days later and I smiled broadly at her message, and we spoke that night. I was saddened to see that not much had changed. And I decided it was perhaps better to keep in my heart the good memories, and continue the silence. So long as I feel connected to Russia, I will feel connected to her in my heart. Because of this event, I traveled twice on my own this year. I went on two adventures which helped me discover and understand myself. It was a lesson on self-worth and the perception of value. I have decided to remain alone for the time being. I've never been a believer in looking for love. I believe love finds you. As I believe that beauty will save the world.

i left teaching.......before the school year was out, even. i just couldn't go on. i jumped off the cliff, into the no-job void....thanks to mom's help, we got through. it was so painful and so necessary. the whole experiencce made me re-evaluate what I considered to be the "givens" in my life.

The most significant experience that happened this year was that I finally took a leap of faith (in myself) after years of self-doubt and pursued a business idea that has been brewing in my mind for years. I am excited and nervous but mostly proud of myself for putting the self-doubt to bed.

My best friend ever died from a very rare disease... He was my mentor, my friend, my world. He saved me several times from Suicide. He helped me to see the world in a better way. He helped me understand my traumas. He guided me when I most needed it. I experienced true grief, like part of the world lost it's shine. The world seems so unfair sometimes. I know that God has plans for us all and nothing is random. Dr. Dan lives within my heart and in the hearts of so many. I want to do him proud. I need to learn how to be the best that I can. I would like to get to know Michelle(his wife) better. I see in her how much she made his life complete.

The shifting sands around Ariya, teaching, Kamala and her whole process (and the challenges around that)..it has felt like a slow change, so slow that I hardly notice things have shifted...but when I stick my head up there's a lot that's really different. How I feel? A bit frozen. A bit resentful (re K and her attitude). A bit sad that what was much more harmonious has shifted. Not happy about that, definitely. I miss the way things were and the easy harmony. Sick of feeling dissed.

I was offered a job, which became a permanent position, within an industry that I love. So grateful. This has given me back my confidence and faith in humanity.

Had second retina detachment - while on book tour in MI. Followed by cataract & then cataract surgery. At the time I was very resentful at my life being so upended, yet grateful to get excellent care so that successful surgery was done asap w/o previous complications. Now that I have prescription implant in affected eye, I am amazed and thankful that, for the first time in over 555 years, I don't need glasses for the most part. I never imagined that I would ever be able to wake up and see things clearly. It's like a miracle.

My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer this year and really stunned everyone with her bravery and courage and how she handled tough decisions. I couldn't imagine being in her place and handling everything so well. It has helped me to realize that people find strength when it's called from them. I'm really proud of her and relieved that everything turned out ok.

Living in Ireland... It made me happy to be Australian and grateful for the amazing experience of living abroad.

In early November of last year, we did our last of three moves in calendar year 2013. In late November, our daughter was born. She is beautiful and healthy, thank God. But the c-section was really hard on me. Really hard. My daughter is significant, and I'm grateful. But for now, the thing that looms largest is the surgery. The doctors suspected I had a placenta accreta - placenta abnormally/overly attached to my uterus. In August I heard it was a concern. In September, I heard the sonogram tech was wrong. In October, the original tech (not remembering me until I reminded her) told me the accreta was real. In the middle of all this we're trying to close on our home. So here comes Election Day and we close. Veteran's Day and we take possession. There I am on Wednesday supervising the pulling up of carpet and sanding of floors. And everyone's saying "hey when are you due?" And I say "Friday." Interventional Radiology was involved. I was supposed to lose my uterus. Appointments on Thursday made it clear the uterus would be gone. I didn't really even have time to panic. I asked the doctor not to tell my husband until after the fact. Surgery's really long. I have to get embolization in the uterine arteries so I won't bleed out. This involves a ton of x-rays. It takes so long, and the anesthesiologist is imperfect in his calculations and by the time they cut into me again, some part of my abdomen is no longer numb. I scream. I cry. My obstetrician's freaking out. He wants to put me under general anesthesia. The anesthesiologist asks for a few minutes to get this under control through the epidural. I can hear everything. It sucks. After a few minutes I feel pressure but not pain. I think I pass out. I think they really really max out the anesthesia, because it takes me a while to wake up, a while to get my toes moving in recovery. For weeks, I looked like I'd been hit by a car. Stitches and staples in my abdomen. Gigantic bruises on both thighs from (removal of) the catheters. Gigantic painful bruise under my left arm, from the daily heparin shots I received in the hospital. And the way this comes back to grateful is this. When it finally came time for Chanukah - the one and only Thanksgivingukkah that's ever been, this was the day my daughter came home from the hospital. And I finally, finally understood the import of the shehecheyanu. Damn I was grateful to be alive to have reached this moment.

I have changed jobs, from a very stressful low paying job, to what I hoped would be a less stressful, higher paying job in the same field. The job also holds more prestige in my field. I started out being grateful and relieved at the different approaches to the same job duties, but as the time goes on, I am beginning to be a bit resentful. The job is much harder than anticipated, and I am floundering, which is very difficult for a person like myself, who is used to giving 100% to her work.

My mother died on April 1. I am shaken, sad, unsteady.

I overcame all of my fears and let down all of my barriers, and started a relationship with one of my best friends. This was the greatest decision I've ever made in my life as it means that I have fallen in love for the first time, and put my trust in someone more than I ever have before. I feel so empowered and yet so vulnerable at the same time. I've never loved someone so much, he's my entire world.

I created new possibilities at Landmark

This last year was not a good year.4 significant experiences mark this year. The love of my life (Stephen), re-entering and re-exiting my life twice, keeping me in mourning, and off balance My best friend (Sandra) dying in December, I miss her so much. Going bankrupt. Losing my career, the one that I had invested 35 years of my life to. After a protracted period of suspension. I was unfairly treated, but in the end I was just to emotionally and psychologically damaged to fight anymore. All of this turmoil has left me drained, lonely, depresssed, wondering what I am going to do with my life. I feel less stable and sure of myself than when I was I teenager. Who am I? What is the purpose of my life? When is my life going to get easier instead of harder, and harder?

Traveling to Israel was a significant experience for me. When I had traveled there before, I looked at Israel as the "holy land", a place filled with religiousness. However, as I traveled there again, I realized that Israelis are not necessarily religious, but that they consider themselves Jewish simply because they live in the Jewish homeland. Being in Israel while finding out that the 3 boys had been found and during the first few days of the war showed me how much passion Israelis have towards their country and how they all unite together whenever a big event occurs. This experience has brought me closer than Israel, and I hope to go back there as soon as I can.

I'm both grateful and regretful of my summer internship with Habitat in Costa Rica...I had an awesome time but didn't connect with anyone there as well as I would have liked. I could have made more of an effort to open up and become closer friends with the people I worked and lived with. I loved traveling around the country and meeting other travelers, but I also feel I would have enjoyed sharing the experience with a close friend, or being more open to connecting with other travelers. The best memories I have are when I truly connected with other travelers for the short time we spent together. This experience has inspired me to take more advantage of travel experiences in the future, or even just experiences where I get to meet new people, to connect with those people.

I got a promotion at my job. It made me feel like I was more of an asset to the company, that I knew what I was doing. I felt valued. And relieved because it came with more money which I needed to help with medical bills.

I am grateful that I was promoted to full professor. This had been a goal of mine for quite some time and I am really proud of myself for taking the steps necessary to earn this.

My ex-husband is going through a divorce. I have been single since we split up, and he got involved then married almost right away. The fact that his new marriage is ending feels validating to me - like it wasn't all my fault. I feel more stable in a big way - and appreciate how much I've done for our children, to keep them safe and protected. Emotionally, especially.

I took a promotion at work that I'm regretting. I thought it would be a challenging learning experience. But instead I'm making slightly more and working twice as much. Goes to show that you really need to think about what you want and not what you're supposed to do.

The most significant event is when my daughter moved to Seattle early September. She'd been away for a year doing two internships, then she spent time visiting friends, experienced a week at Burning Man, and was coming home to pack up and move. The big day, she called me and told me she was there and that I should come home, but I was irritated because the call came out of the blue. She was supposed to have come earlier and now it was later and I was at the gym and etc etc. When I finally got home, it was 10:00 and she and her boyfriend's cars were both packed to the gills. And she said that they were leaving for Seattle soon; so rather than spending the rest of the night with them, I was saying good bye. This is what I wrote in my FB post that night: I'm sitting here crying after great big hugs, and making dinner for her, and then more hugs and tears and then I stood on the sidewalk watching her drive away. Letting go of one's child moves in baby steps. Off to kindergarten. Then junior High. High School graduation with some summers away in between. Then college punctuated by summer adventures. And a year of internships, away but still her presence in this house. But now she's on the road... Her room emptied of what she wants and needs the most.... and on the road to Seattle, to more school, to job interviews, to new adventure. I am so proud of her.... all that she's accomplished and now she's setting out so confidently into this next stage of her life, but it's so sad too. A little part of me thought she'd move back... well, hoped. And now it hurts. it surprised me, the tears. I thought I'd be braver. But then I'm happy for her because she's doing what is natural and right. But then it hurts all over again. Tears flowing.

While it may seem trivial, in this past year I have lost four beloved cats; two died, and two surrendered because they could not get along. I mourn all of these losses. I think I went to five funerals in the last 18 months, and as I grow older, these experiences become more frequent, and I think both losing my pets and seeing friends and loved ones pass on helps me to respect and experience every day as it comes as a new day; to not dwell on the past or get stuck in it; to not dream of the future; but simply to live in the moment as much as possible. From this I draw inspiration and comfort.

i went on my first mission trip, to jamaica, and got to go as an operating surgeon... it was an incredible experience, and though i still ended up working with others more experienced than me for most cases, it built my confidence, taught me lessons, gave me insight and i believe better judgment even in small ways for the future. i felt appreciated, and i know that i worked hard. i didnt know what to expect, but my desire to be a part of something like that was greatly fulfilled, and made me even more sure that i want to continue participating in such efforts on at least an annual basis, if possible. i look forward to hopefully joining this group again next spring at a different hospital, and am proud of my participation, commitment, and efforts on their behalf.

I had a lot of promises from other business owners that never happened and the disappointment has been high. The good news is I have been able to see where my commitment/dedication to the projects is never ending and my commitment to God for support is even more profound. I lean more upon my faith with actions and feel more led to follow my inner guide than ever before. Doors close, new ones open and has made me a stronger person!!

This past year, I started running on Nov. 2, 2013 with Couch to 5K. I have now run at least 12 races, ranging from 5Ks to 5 miles :) I will complete my first 10K in November!

I joined a boxing gym. It's been one of the greatest decisions I've ever made. I love the people I've met there, the changes I've gone through physically and mentally will continue with me for the rest of my life.

The dissolution of DOMA. My wife and I, married in Massachusetts 11 years ago can now claim "married" on all federal as well as state forms. I am grateful to President Obama for this. I am inspired by Mary Bonato, who won a MacArthur award, for her work with GLAD in the first state that voted to approve gay and lesbian marriage- Massachusetts.

I was accepted to the School of Education special education program! I felt so grateful, and accomplished, and proud. I felt a little relieved, because the most important part- acceptance- was over.

The most significant event in the past year, I think, is that I am now working part-time. As my answers alluded to last year, working at a big corporation is not very congruent with my soul. Somehow, that manifested in my real life and I was asked to cut my hours to part time. We've managed to make the money work out okay, and I now know what it is like to have my life revolve around what i really love, which is school. It may be that what I really love is Philosophy, and school is where i do that. I guess we shall see how that shows up in the next year.

A very significant experience for me was when my partner's mother passed away the day before my birthday. It affected me deeply because my partner was so devastated. I felt good that I could be there for her. It was also very hard for me because it reminded me of when I lost my father- all of the pain that seemed so great that it would never get better ...and it never really did , it just changed. It was also heartbreaking because we didn't make it. We found out that she passed away 30 minutes before the plane landed. I wanted us to make it so badly. I was sending all of my energy to g-d and the earth for it to work out , for us to arrive so she could hold her mothers hand one last time. It was an unexpected death, and I wanted that closure for her so badly. I was so sad for Grace and for myself. I wanted her mother to love me more , to like me more, and I felt like we never got that chance. It also made me think that I NEVER want that to happen with my mother. I adore my mother and if anything ever happened to her I would be completely lost. It's hard now because I am living so far away from her, but I realized I don't want that to always be my life. I never want to be 30 minutes late again. I hope to live close to her one day.

I broke my ankle in January. I've had three surgeries this year and have spent 9 months recuperating. I learned who in my circles can be counted on when I need help. I learned that my son Austin is awesome and a amazing young man. He's going to make someone an incredible husband one day. He's kind, attentive, nurturing. I would never have imagined that the 19 year old kid could be so intuitive and perceptive in anticipating some of what I needed when I was so drugged and almost completely immobile. I learned that there are some lonely men who have wives and girlfriends and who are apparently looking to be meaningful in the life of a woman. Makes me wonder about a lot of things. James is married and was more than eager to help in any way he could. Jay had two girlfriends and called me every day that he didn't come over to help. I really think they just wanted to matter in someone's life. I learned that some of the people I've held most important in my life couldn't find the time or inclination to help me at all. Not my parents, not some of who I would have considered up to that point to be my closest friends. This changed me. It changed how I view them, how I view friendship and how I view the kind of friend I've been to others who've been in need. It made me stop and take a hard look at my life - which has pretty much been out of control the last several years. It was a message to sit. Sit and get grounded. Am I grateful? Not for the break. I'm grateful for the relationship between my son and I that deepened. I'm grateful for the clarity I gained in some aspects of my life. I'm grateful for the spiritual connectedness I developed. Am I resentful? No. Inspired? Yes, but not because of the break - because of how I used the time to contemplate and struggle to connect to life on a deeper spiritual level.

Is it accurate or fair to say that this year has been full of the most changes? The biggest changes. The most life-altering changes? That this entire last year itself has been a significant experience and that it's affected everything. That this past year has still continued, to this very day, to profoundly affect me. After moving out of Jim's my parents agreed to take me in to help me get back on my feet. This began what became an entire year of living rent free. In October, I met a psychic medium, palm reader, tarot card reading woman. She took time to tell me that I had the hands of a psychic, that I am full of writing, and that my life ahead is potentially very interesting - even that my most difficult decade is up ahead. That winter I began working temp assignments for BolyWelch. New Renaissance Bookstore became my safe haven. At the final GASP meeting I told the ladies my dream of biking through SE Asia and of my multi-media, choose your own adventure, interactive book. At Christmas I received an iPhone. I worked through January and February, not just on a job, but on my emotions. I was processing my history. My baggage. My memories, my feelings, my psychic residue. I was coming full circle. I knew I would be learning a huge lesson. I thought I was coming to the end of a cycle. I wanted so much to grow and learn and move on. So with the inspiration of being snowed in, I composed my Personal Contract. I gave myself a meaningful and thought out list of qualifications that must be met in order for the contract to be fulfilled. I knew that aside from finding a steady job, paying off my debts, saving money and getting back on my feet, I needed to clean out my proverbial closet. My parents weren't very aware of this, even though I did read my personal contract to my father and have him sign as a witness. They didn't understand the significance. So, as I made progress, and processed my subconscious mind as well as my conscious mind, my mother and father would interfere and make it clear that I wasn't meeting their expectations. This was familiar. This was exactly what I was trying to get over from my childhood: never being good enough to exist. At the end of spring, in May, I had a meltdown and told my mother over the phone while rampaging through the plaza outside of Clackamas Town Center what a piece of work she is and how she ruined my childhood. How she was the reason I became mentally ill. I said all of the things you tell your journal, not your mother. And when I got home, my parents gave me my thirty day notice. I had paid off my credit card debt and had been managing to make payments on my student loans. I also sold most of my belongings. I gave away my living room furniture to childhood friend Lisa Everrett, and my kitchenware to childhood friend Jessica LaDuke. Without having any clue of where to go or what to do and not enough savings or a steady job to support myself with, I called my mentors in a panic. Kristi Govertsen reminded me of when she lived out of her car. She got through. She told me - just put everything in storage and start couch surfing. I had never done anything like this and was a nervous wreck over the prospect of having to arrange everything. But the guidance I was receiving and the pressures I was feeling were all pointing to this direction - freedom. Riding my bike from one end of town to city center, I happened across a storage facility, pulled a u-turn, locked up my bike, and stepped inside. I snagged a unit after a couple sheets of preliminary paperwork and a swipe of my debit card. Drew, my best friend, explained that I could stay with him under specific conditions. Before the month was even up, I rented a u-haul and moved all of my belongings to storage with the help of Drew. It was stressful. Drew even stormed off. I kept my focus. I knew I didn’t have time for relationship shmoozing. I needed to stay on track. I had a lot of work to do, and it was all my responsibility. At the end of the month, Drew and I flew to Bakersfield California for a week. It was a great trip for me - the first time I’d gotten away for a vacation in years. I played light saber war with his niece Reese. We relaxed at Pismo beach. We went shopping at the mall. We ate great all week. We swam in his Aunt Jackie’s pool. His parents were super friendly. And when I came back to Portland, I began my shaky first month officially “homeless” and with limited access to any of my belongings. I signed up for Women’s Self Defense courses, which occurred on Saturdays for the month of June. These classes rocked my world. I had a psychological breakdown after the first course. I wandered away from the class, crying, calling the women’s crisis line, a total mess, snot dripping and tears shooting from my eyes. I was blind and sobbing. I put myself on a wait list for a women’s shelter. And then I met my first two Guardian Angels. Around the corner from New Renaissance, I saw special synchronistic signs tacked to the window of someone’s ground level studio apartment. In rare form, I trusted my intuition and knocked on the door of a complete stranger. Skyla opens the door and has been expecting me. Then Erin arrives, and the two of them spiritually care-take for me. They speak my language, one I’d nearly forgotten. It’s all alchemy and mystical and angels and faeries and demons and goblins and ghosts and spirits. Erin offers to let me crash at her place. Skyla gifts me books, a dvd, and a butterfly tarot card. Cause after all, I am in metamorphosis. Drew is furious. We fight. Horribly. He threatens to kick me out. It’s the middle of the night. I’m hanging on to my rational mind tight. Drew scares me. I don’t feel safe there. I start working at OMSI full time by late June. And I couch surf at Erin’s. I couch surf at Andie’s. I hitch hike up to Washington and party at Kelly Baur’s Farm in celebration of her return. I couch surf one night at my mom and dad’s. And I am generally in survival mode. I go to my storage unit and sit in my grandmas rocking chair, alone, staring out the warehouse window high above. Watching the gray sky, the streaks of rain, the wind whipped tree peeking in at me. I am scared, tired, and alone. I am cold. And I take a swig of whiskey, and plot out the daily events of my life on my trust white board calendar. At the start of July, Kelly Baur comes back to Portland. Drew and I are doing better. I am staying with him full time now - which is what I call couch sinking. Drew is getting counseling. Drew and I are seeing a couple’s counselor. The sun is shining. And Drew gets a special tattoo on July 4th. I meet a wonderful intern at OMSI named Cindy Laine. She is 21 and from France. I draw little notes and pass them to her, which begins a special friendship - and a way for her to practice her English. We start to hang out after work. One weekend, Graham Chandler invites me out on his boat to hang out on Ross Island. I invite Kelly and Cindy. We all go party on Ross Island. It is perhaps the most fun I’ve had in years. So free, so creative, so primitive, and energetic. There are about 15-20 people total camping out by the end of the night. This is beginning to feel more like a liberating month, with the activity, the sunshine, the adventure, the new friends, and Drew cooperating with me. By August, I’m in full routine. I work nearly 6 days a week every week between my Security job and OMSI. Then, OMSI announces they are laying off three departments including mine. This is somehow…what I’ve always been waiting for. I go to my family reunion in Coquille Oregon the first weekend, had a great time with my mom and dad and brother. Then, I visit my RYLA friend Sara in Redmond. On August 19th, after work, I accompany Drew by bike to his appointment. Normally he always takes the bus, but I thought I’d encourage him to ride more often. After all, I told him he would get everywhere twice as fast and for free - and get exercise. While waiting for him on upper Division, happenstance would have a young girl named Ena snag my attention long enough to introduce me to Richard Mitchell - a radical, adventurous, academic world traveller. He took interest in me and told me he would explain all about biking SE Asia. And from there, the wings of my dream began to take flight. I knew I had to trust myself. The next day was my last day as an OMSI Visitor Services employee. I turned in my badge. I had kept a positive and optimistic attitude the entire month, cheering up my fellow co-workers whom were all glum and disheartened from the layoffs. Many of them were hired back into new positions, which was good. I received a random Facebook message from a friend of a friend who said he thought he saw me jogging around Clinton Street the day before. I thought - how random. I was not jogging, but I was in the area - which is somewhat uncharacteristic of me. Anyways, he said he was moving to Portland and that we should hang out sometime. By the end of that week, I had only one more weekend of work left as OMSI Security and then I was done. I had nothing planned ahead. It truly took ALL of my energy and attention just to get through the work I was doing. 10-15 hour shifts as security, sleep, bike, eat, bathe, repeat. Non-stop. I was making good money. I got a call from Sara (RYLA Sara, we’d been texting all summer) and she asks me if I wanted to come out to Redmond again to visit her. I said sure. A few days before she was to come and pick me up, she texted me. I was in the middle of a parking lot patrol at OMSI, tired and beat up from the relentless routine of my summer. She was checking in, to make plans, and when we talked about the visit, she asked me: “So do you wanna come back with me?” I didn’t know what that meant, it’s not often I’m invited to "come back” with anyone. She said: “Move in with me, you can stay in the second bedroom.” Without a second thought or hesitation, I said: “Okay!” I typically thrive on spontaneity and impulsive decision making. It’s just easier for me to see all the pieces without getting caught up in logistics and too many details. I just make it work and smooth out any complications as they arise. What is meant to be is meant to be and what matters is moving forward - for me. So going back to my office, I write an email to my parents. Then I tell Drew. And that weekend, Sara and her boyfriend Terry pull up with a truck and trailer and we load up all of my stuff from storage, I sign my paperwork, and they drive me straight out to Redmond by nightfall. I’ve been staying in Redmond for the entire month of September, and just yesterday, the 27th, I moved into the house down HWY 97 to stay with Sara and Terry. They are getting married in two weeks. While I’ve been here, I’ve been in complete isolation. Sara and Terry stayed at his house while I had the apartment to myself. But I had no internet, no television, no radio. I would ride my bike to the library often, do my business, job search, check emails, and once I did play a 3-hour session of mine craft with Drew. I noticed other bicyclist vagabonds with their gear and loaded bikes. But for the most part I’ve been painfully alone. I’ve cried. I’ve journaled, painted, sketched, begun a art diary. I’ve read books - The Girl’s Guide to Homelessness, Yesterday I Cried, Archetypes, among others. I’ve eaten pints of ice cream and drank loads of coffee. I’ve been miserable, and I’ve been allowed to heal those parts of me that hurt. Sara let me borrow her car to work a weekend in Portland halfway through the month. I house-sat for Kristi and slept at Drews. I visited my parents. I worked the OMSI mini-maker faire. I also got another message from that friend of a friend who moved to Portland. He asked me if I was going on the Midnight Mystery Bike Ride. I wasn’t, I had no bike. But we met up the next day at the Belmont Street Faire (Saturday). When I arrived, Jeremy and Cody (two virtual strangers) hugged me like we’d been friends for years and asked me how I’ve been to which I proclaimed: I’m gonna bike SE Asia. This has been my stock answer for everyone and everything, for every occasion, for the past year. I tell the cashier at the Fred Meyers, I tell the people at OMSI, I tell the people at the table next to me at the cafe, I tell my family, I tell Drew, I tell my counselors, mentors, anyone that will listen. And as if to prove how serious I am, I tell them that there’s this guy named Richard who may even have a bike for me…and I’m even pulling out Richard’s business card and showing them that he’s a legit person…I haven’t even sat down at the table yet to join these two guys, and they ask me: “Well, why don’t you call him now?!” So, again with the impulse and the attention, I pull out my phone and dial Richard. I didn’t even know if he would remember me let alone answer. Maybe he was just drunk? Maybe he was a mirage? But he answered, and he remembered me. He told me to meet him and his wife Gia at 7:30pm for dinner at the Mekong Bistro in NE. I snapped my phone shut, shocked at the consequences of my actions, and proceeded to remain the center of attention for the rest of the afternoon in the sun at the Faire, vividly talking and entertaining these two guys whom I had never hung out with before. That was what really started to transform my life. Realizing that if I at least ‘go for it’ - I can get pretty dang far as long as I don’t stop trying. I met with Richard and Gia that night and they spoiled me with a table full of fine food, avid conversation, lots of attention and information, much approval, and by the end of the night, they offered to help me navigate my entire SE Asia trip including using any gear they had to offer me. They also said that I’m welcome to stay at their home in Corvallis anytime. I left that late that evening glowing from the interaction. Back in Redmond, I got to work. I’ve been researching vaccines, flights, and handling my business, and packing (since I’m moving into the house down the HWY) and crying and moaning in burst in between progress. Out of the blue, I received a phone call from Federal Agent Jacobs. He said that I was being summoned to court to testify for the shooting that took place two years ago on November 18th, 2012. He said that date was picked out for November 19th, 2014. I shivered, thinking about how much has literally snowballed since that day of my baptism, the day the shot rang out. Then Richard emailed to say that he would meet me in Bend on Monday September 22nd. Without any other information, I packed my panniers, got on my bike, and rode the 18 mile trek out to Bend on Monday. My cell battery was about dead, but I managed to locate a cafe and give Richard a call to tell him where I was. I then waited three and a half hours until he arrived. We hung out late into the night, running around Bend, and getting into my back stories, my emotions, my family history, and who the heck I am. The next day I relapsed. I cried. I thought it was all a mirage. I couldn’t believe any of this. I continued to pack, to go through what last I still had - binders full of old paperwork, school work, memories still. And then Richard called and said to be ready by 6pm, he was coming to get me, we were going to talk again. This time, we hung out even later. We got coffee at Starbucks in Redmond - always a priority, espresso is - and talked about my qualities and how to approach my family issues. Then we drove to Bend and had dinner, going over gear and the Big List. He gifted me a swiss army knife and whistle, along with a few other important essentials, and he had me test out the whistle in the parking lot after notifying the restaurant manager. Then we wandered around downtown Bend in search of coffee, only to find a tea bar open for only ten more minutes. We got tea and then drove out of Bend, getting lost four times or more on the way. We stopped at a grocery store where he gave me a father-like lecture about my parents and then dropped me off at the apartment in Redmond. We sat in his truck, still talking, me tired, him just getting started. We had gone over grad school, how to turn the SE Asia trip into a study, and I had also told him that I’m moving again. After I explained the situation, he insisted I come stay at the house in Corvallis. He told me to pack a duffel, my bike, and get on the next bus. So I packed. And I just moved my belongings over to the house. And it’s Saturday, the end of September. And I’m literally waiting to be done helping Sara clean out the apartment I stayed in and then get on the next bus to Corvallis at the start of next week. I am nervous. I am anxious. At this point, I’ve tipped over the edge and am eager to pick up speed and move straight ahead. I had a lot of trouble dealing with my things all month, had trouble letting them go, had trouble sifting through them, I felt stuck and lost. I felt trapped. And now, I see the trap. And I want out of it. I want out now. And I don’t want to allow myself to keep getting caught in the trap. I’ve been caught in it over and over in my life. And now I recognize what it is. It is any physical, mental, emotional, or social entity that I allow myself to get hung up on, to hold on to, to try to keep. I need to fashion myself and my life style around adaptability, movement, freedom, flexibility, and just the essentials that I can manage on my own. I want to live independent from anchors that weigh me down to my past or to a place I do not belong to. I want to explore. To find myself. To experience my potential for living an extraordinary life. And I got off the phone with my mother jumping up and down with joy, after nearly choking while I dialed her. I told her my plans and I asked for my parents help and she said Yes to everything. To all of it. She shared stories about her past. She said that this makes her comfortable as my mother. She approves. She is happy for me. She will help me. I can come back to Portland for the Holidays. And prepare for the next big journey of my life.

I hit my lowest point in my life from stress and needed to take 3 months off of work. I attended counselling sessions, was placed on anti-depressant medication, began meditation and discovered the artist within. I am grateful for being at a work place that enabled me to take the time off to re-establish my peace of mind. I am grateful for the counselling sessions which brought clarity and eventually peace to my mind and body. I am grateful for the meditation time for allowing me to focus within and discover the artist that has been suppressed for many years. I am grateful for the time to find flow within my art and lose track of time and space. I have discovered qualities about myself that have added confidence to my life! I am blessed beyond my own knowledge and strive to live a purpose filled life that not only affects me but others as well!

I lost 30 pounds through a great program emphasizing eating better and daily (almost) exercise. I'm delighted with my new energy level and how great look.

I went to Pardes this summer and while there, I experienced some major life changes. All were significant but being there while under fire by Hamas was very significant for me. Learning about what work I have to do while living under stress, recognizing my inability to control situations, and all the while deepening my jewish knowledge toolbox was... It was something else. I've not yet even fully processed it to be honest, but I can say that if I was going to be anywhere this summer I'm glad I was in Israel. I'm glad it wasn't perfect, I'm grateful for the experience and that my family remained aafe throughout.

Dafna died. She was 5 years old and spent most of her life fighting cancer. I miss her and I pray that her family are able to find comfort.

My dad, moved in with us on March 31. He has his own living room, bathroom, and bedroom in a detached structure from our house. He eats dinner with us most nights. Breakfast with us on weekends and holidays. His moving here has relieved us of the weekly trek to where he lived, that interfered with our ability to accomplish the things we needed to do for us on the weekends, as both my husband and I are still working out of the home. His moving here has also reduced our worry about his well being. Dad is still very "with-it" mentally and manages his own finances. He is still ambulatory, but uses a cane. He turned 103 on August 28. Dad moving here has totally changed our lives. The rhythym of our days is different. Our children are grown and live in other states, but we again are a family in our home. There are days that are difficult, but mostly it is wonderful. It has taught me patience; understanding; consideration. I have again learned to allow others to do for themselves. Dad sings almost every day. He is in pain, and yet he sings. He is very tolerant of others - although sometimes he takes a little while to get there. Still, he is an inspiration. It has changed our lives and we have given up a great deal of privacy; we again have to think of others in our coming and goings. But mostly, it is a blessing!

February 16, 2014 - marked 7 years that I had been on my own after a mentally and emotionally abusive relationship. Yes, it had an impact on me - from every day after this date, I've been on my own longer than I was in the relationship. I've survived. I've had ups and downs, but overall, I've flourished. I'm me. And I've finally taken the time to unearth the feelings and emotions that I had long buried deep to hide. Learning about myself, and why I made those particular decisions, was difficult - yet what was more unreal is how much of that relationship actually mirrored my life growing up. I'm still sad that what I want from my family and what I get from them will always be two different things. But, at least now I understand this difference, and can (and will) make a choice to live my life the way I want to.

I learned my wife was cheating with a man who called himself my best friend. Almost every day, I question my decision to stay with her.

I got my first job in over 10 years. I am all things. Grateful for sure, and relieved, but also resentful that I have to work for someone else and my entrepreneurial dreams were put on hold. It is nice to not have to worry about money for sure! I need to just be happy about that and not worry about the rest. Everything happens for a reason. This is not the final hand. Time will reveal all.

Got engaged and it has been wonderful. Great event when it happened and we have moved forwarded nicely.

I joined the Temple board and became an officer. I am both pleased with the contribution I have been able to make and overwhelmed because I may have taken on more than I can handle timewise.

had to learn my son wanted to commit suicide, became anxious and seriously depressed, we were blessed with finding a wilderness program in Utah where he went and since found a boarding school to finish high school I feel very grateful that he is is us alive and with desire to keep learning and living

My parents moved to the city where I live. I have been so happy about. I'm surprised that I feel so good. I'm glad to have them nearby , to have a casual relationship, to get a better sense of them as individuals. Especially my mom. I want to get them more involved in my life but also recognize they are also figuring out their own transition. I'm not sure they'll stay here. I am worried they can't afford it or will find it too hard to make friends when you are in your 70s. So maybe will return to where they came from or choose elsewhere.

I could not be more content with how my year is unfolding, especially with the series of events that culminated in my junior year. It was mid-November, still within a year’s time from today, when I came out to a close friend. If you were to ask my freshman self, I wouldn’t even have given it a thought. Not long after, I joined a club known as the underground LGBT group. There, I found that my natural, default self was nothing to hide. Fast forward in May, I talked to my guidance counselor who insisted on discussing anything that was on my mind. It was a gratifying moment for me when I told him of all that had to say. That same afternoon, I met with a friend that I’ve known since grade school, and came out to her as well. What I felt wasn’t simply relief from a secret I’ve kept too long. It was total liberation that I felt that day – where the secrets that bound me to self-withdrawal had lost its authority over me.

Much of my significant personal development this year has come from affirmation by the men in my life. It always makes me (a woman) happy to see good men doing the right things, especially when so much in the media shows the opposite. This spring, I dated a guy who liked and respected my curiosity and search for knowledge. We debated scientific journal articles and peer-reviewed studies; he was not intimidated, and he listened to and considered my opinion. It was refreshing to "come out" about my research hobby and be respected for having a well-informed opinion. Validation by someone I liked and respected gave me confidence in my intelligence and affirmed my intellectual curiosity. This summer I became close friends with a police recruit. Watching him go through the academy for some of his 8 months has left me in awe of his perseverance, respect for others, honesty, confidence, commitment to integrity, tenacity, and focus. My two younger brothers (late teens and early 20s) are growing from boys into young men. I get to see the kids I used to have burping contests with make tough, adult decisions and grow stronger & better every day. Being surrounded by good people encourages and inspires me and gives me hope in the future.

I took a full-time permanent RN position at WCH. I'm grateful for the opportunity to work in women's health, have a daytime nursing job without any heavy lifting and excellent colleagues, doctors who respect nurses knowledge, skill and judgement. Sad that it's not in Victoria, BC

There are a lot of events I could choose from including the Gay Bashing in Center City Philadelphia, the Michael Brown murder but I think most definitive for my life was the Israel - Gaza escalation. During the most recent iteration of the conflict I went to an incredible Tisha B'Av Action and Vigil calling for CJP and JCRC to diversify their voice on the situation in Israel/Palestine. This action led to a meeting with Jeremy Burton and Barry Schrage that I along with five other young liberal Jews were a part of. This meeting was the catalyst for the If Not Now When Boston movement. I am now a part of the Coordinating Committee and have a pretty significant role in this new movement. I feel grateful and inspired as well as incredibly apprehensive about how this could all play out. Being a rabbinical student there are huge risks with being a public voice on issues with Israel and the way they treat Palestinians. I feel like I have finally found my people politically on this issue though so that is exciting.

In the last year I have become very involved in my children's public school which relies heavily on parent volunteers. The experience is has been enlightening and humbling. There's really no good answer to the question of why schools have no money. They are all shite answers. And these kids…. they come willing to learn. The sky truly is NOT the limit. If we provide them with the tools and opportunity to be great, they will be. But if we deprive them, insisting that we need more money for space exploration or war, we will all suffer, as these kids will continue to have their intellectual growth stunted.

I got married! What an amazing fun experience to have EVERYONE you love in a room together. It made me so grateful to have friends that care so much about you surround you and your relationship with such love. Everyone came from so far away just to show us their love!

There were deaths - one was recent and it was her time but one was someone I cared for years ago and I didn't know about it and that bothers me. I don't know the cause or any info. I would like to know why and how. A part of aging is dying and it is stressful because it reminds you of your own mortality. I am scared and sad and reflective. I think Baby Boomers still feel like 30/40 somethings and this makes mortality very frightening.

I started dating this year. It felt pretty significant. Like I was starting a new chapter in my life. One which would lead to new things But lots of false leads have just left me stuck in the same place with no clear path out of here. I know marriage shouldn't be my ticket out of my parents' home and into the future, but a family life is all I've ever ultimately wanted. I'm scared of what my life will actually amount to if I don't achieve at least this. I think I'm getting a clearer picture of what I actually want, but am also scared to fully articulate it in case I'm being too idealistic or if what I actually find is less than what I originally thought I've now been with my boyfriend for 3 months and whilst that has been much much longer than my previous 3 week record, I still can't say whether I really want to be with him forever and ever or not. I'm concerned that I've only stuck with him this long because he hasn't dumped me. Because it's been nice to have someone's attention for longer than 2 seconds. I don't want to dump him, because he doesn't want to dump me (but does that mean I only like him, because he likes me?) Overall, dating has made me more desperate to find the right person because searching for him is freakin exhausting and I don't feel capable of going through this life alone. I don't want to be alone and lonely

I was admitted to the hospital for migraines in June. I was there for 8 days. It made me realize that I needed to make a significant change in my life and that I needed to push to find an answer to my headaches - and that the doctor's answer of 'we don't know' wasn't good enough. I searched and searched for answers, and finally came across one that should have been...more obvious from the beginning. Diet. I've since found a new diet that lowers inflamation and am feeling like a totally different person - one with energy and curiosity. Having migraines/chronic headaches has made me feel so alone. I often would go to work and then just crash on the couch. My illness became my identity. I'm not totally there yet, but I have hope for the first time in awhile. And, I'm grateful. But, I'm also...still resentful, wondering why this happened to me. I have high (er) hopes for next year. Thank G-d.

My husband was in the hospital for a week-and-a-half, then fell into a problem with drink, and spent six months unemployed - just because he didn't feel like going back to work. I feel resentful because he doesn't care about his behavior. He doesn't care that he drained my savings account. He doesn't care that he makes no contribution to the household. I resent him. And I'm grateful that we don't have children - I would NEVER put a child through what we've been struggling with.

Well let's see, it has been a loaded year, and thus to try and identify one significant event will certainly be ignoring a lot of others that have been equally momentous in this past year of my life. The one that comes to mind right now is when I return from Israel, and how I spent less than a week preparing to turn around and drive off and spend what would become the longest time I had ever been away from home in my life. I even spent those six days focusing on finding a car rather than savoring all the little things that I love about home and would not have for a while. As I look back on it, namely while I am still on a somewhat turbulent part of this journey, I think that the early courage I needed to have to be able to depart from home with an eagerness for what was ahead is the exemplary spirit that I should continue to draw. A call this courage because I wasn't simply steeling myself in the moment, so I think there was some of that. Rather I do believe I dug somewhere deep, subconsciously as I didn't really think about it, and I found a way to be optimistic about what was ahead despite how much of it was unknown. In short, I would say that I was and still am feeling inspired and thus optimistic based on this moment.

The death of my mother.. I'm sad, I miss her so much. I feel older, reflective. In a way I was relieved because her last year was so awful and frightening for her.

I decided to follow my heart and take a leap of faith (and love) and will be moving to Georgia. My sometimes boyfriend of the last two and half years and I have gotten back together and I will be moving there to be with him. It's been a crazy roller coaster of emotions but we are both finally at the same place at the same time. We love each other and we are ready to build our life together. It wasn't an easy decision but I know it is the right one. He has already left and it is so hard to be apart, I miss him so much, but I just keep looking forward to the rest of our lives. I have never been happier or more scared in my entire life. Right now, I'm just anxious to go!

Coming close to a breaking point beyond any wilful control. I am grateful for the support I had and the bravery I showed to let fate lead me to a natural end of that experience. I am relieved it was short lived and inspired how nature and spirit will not be beaten - when you need to face up to things the reckoninbhour comes with or without your consent

What was most significant to me is that this year was mostly uneventful. I seem to be appreciated at work (always a good thing). Finances are in order - not great, but moving forward. Family relationships are good, both immediate and extended. We replaced a couple of cars without much incident. The boys are doing very good, and seem to be moving in a good direction. Health is abundant which is always a good thing. This has made me very grateful and hopeful for the future, and enabled me to have a greater appreciation for the non-financial abundance in my life.

My uncle passed away a few days before his 52nd birthday from a heart attack then my father became very ill. It made me realize that I could take no one for granted and to cherish every minute I have with my loved ones.

One significant experience I had this year was getting promoted from Attorney I to Attorney II. I ended up feeling all of the example feelings identified - I was grateful to be rewarded for the hard work I've put in over the last two years; I was relieved because part of me was worried I wouldn't get promoted (due, in part, to prophetic-style dreams in which I was told only one promotion was being given and it wasn't going to me!); additionally relieved and grateful because I've experienced about an 18% increase in my salary, which has allowed me to increase my retirement contributions and slightly increased my feelings of financial stability; inspired to continue working hard and bettering my knowledge base and expertise in my field; and resentful, because my boyfriend reacted poorly to my news. In fact, his reaction has started a small chain reaction in which I'm questioning our commitment to each other and how long-lasting this relationship will or can be... and I also struggle because I knew, I KNEW, he wouldn't react the way I wanted him to and even hesitated to TELL him my news... because I knew he was struggling at the same time, both with his interest in his job and his own financial situation. But I told myself, what kind of a relationship is it if I can't even share my own good news because I'm worried it will have a negative impact on his self-esteem or make him resentful or something.

I have had two big experiences in the past year, I would say. One: I lost my cats, Dewey and Billie Jean. They passed away within months of each other. Dewey was a complete surprise...I came home and a few hours later I had to put him down. Billie Jean held on for a while, but had been sick before Dewey passed away, and eventually I had to put her down as well. I am still not over it and try not to get into the thought patterns that could easily make me cry. It used to be I had a pain bubble that could be poked and destroyed, leaving me distraught. It's still really hard and I don't want to write about it. I now have two new cats, Charlotte and Rosemary. They are a little standoffish but beautiful and excellent cats. The second thing has been moving in with Peter. We moved in together in July and it's going really well. I am very happy and he loves me so much! This morning I woke up to the rocking chair he had bought and put next to my bed. I am grateful every day that Peter is in my life.

My son was born. Last year I couldn't answer these questions because I didn't know where this year would leave me. There was so much uncertainty. Would he be healthy? Would he be? Would he have a family? He is healthy. He is. He is surrounded by love. I could not have imagined a more perfect child or the ability to love anyone this much.

My daughtervturned one - i ferl so proud and awed by her and proud of my hisband and i too. We made it thru year one! The fears and joys and incertainty and decisions. We have a laughing singing smiling loving beautiful soul we created and nurture. Whatever else happens we are a family

Thought: I answered question 4 just a minute ago and it asked something about an event that happened in the world and I wrote about something that happened in the news. What happens in my life also happens in the world. It's funny how I dong consider things happening in my life as thongs that are happening in the world... I'm sitting in a train; opposite me is a couple. The way is snuggled up into the woman.. I found myself wondering if he was mentally unwell and she his carer. I asked them a question about the line and realised he is perfectly healthy. Their affection is making me incredibly uncomfortable- they are very PDA. His frame is smaller than hers and it looks a little strange. Like she is the male and he the female.. Its confusing me as to why I'm feeling so unconforstble by this... I have very black and white ideas about what is supposed to look like. They are so happy, relaxed and in love with eachother and I think it is ugly because I don't understand it.. Isn't there supposed to rules about what relationships and love looks like?

During the past year I have become more politically active than I ever have been, even during the activist sixties. My husband Bob became involved first in the campaign to elect President Obama, and I worked beside him. Then, after a trip to the White House, he began working harder and harder to elect more Democrats in Texas. Now both of us are working every free waking moment on the campaign of Wendy Davis for Governer of Texas. It feels important to us to help other Texans to have the knowledge and empowerment to elect officials who have their best interests at heart. I feel inspired by Bob's example and delighted by some of the friendships that have come out of our political work. I also feel tired and glad we are only about a month away from the election. Win or lose, I will feel satisfied for having fought this fight and delighted for having been able to fight it beside the man I love.

Ugh, this question sucks. Both of my mom's parents (Bubbie and Zaydie) passed away this year. I am incredibly heartbroken and don't know what to say. We all knew Zaydie wasn't going to live to 120, even though he kept proving the doctors wrong, the cancer finally won. I thought for sure Bubbie was going to pull through and be like yea, I can make it without him. Sadly (for me), I think she just really wanted to be with Zaydie. She tried to get better, but when it got to hard she realized it wasn't worth the fight. She had many an amazing fights in her life, and just wanted to be with him. I love them and will always miss them.

New math and ELA materials give me so much work. I'm grateful, resentful, and inspired because it forces me to grow.

I got rejected from the PhD program I applied to. It caused me to reevaluate my chosen career path, and I realized which of my goals in life were more important than others.

Abbiamo cambiato casa. Non volevo lasciare trinity hall per la compagnia del pub ed ero un po' triste perché incerto su quello che avrei trovato. Qui invece mi piace, c'è un bel senso di comunità, e le persone importanti conosciute le mantengo.

My husband's continued deteriorating health. It is very difficult to deal with, and accepting this change. How do I deal with this, what will happen now, what will happen next? All this responsibility and I find it so difficult to do what is necessary for his well being. I want someone else to do it, but it is only me here to do the necessary steps.

Significant Experience: Moving out of state with a partner, choosing to return home, and being displaced due to a violent incident upon returning to home This year I left a partner struggling with depression and addiction. In doing so I left multiple jobs that were emotionally exhausting and paid me very little for my labor. To get back home I fundraised for gas money, and a trailer so small I had to leave most of my belongings behind. When I returned home I had less than $100. I stayed with a parent who also struggles with addiction and depression, as well as severe anger management problems. I left that housing situation after surviving a physically violent incident. I was homeless and I had $50 to my name. How it affected me: I found a creative solution, and worked hard to create enough financial space to obtain long-term temporary housing, and grew my business enough to start taking days off (after several 30-40 day stretches without days off) and I found a free source of emotional support to work through my trauma. I started my own small business. I returned to a friends and family of alcoholics and addicts group. That group continues to provide tools for making wiser relationship choices, and for managing stressful environments and situations. That program is also helping me identify how to make healthier life choices. I obtained housing, temporary supplemental income work, and my small business is continuing to grow. I was able to file paperwork for a professional license and am actively working in that field as a volunteer while I seek full time work in that area. Obtaining that license was the culmination of a 3 year graduate program, and 5 years of missing passing by a hair under extraordinarily difficult circumstances. 8 years later I finally have my license though I am still trying to begin a career in my field. Am I grateful? Sometimes I'm grateful. Sometimes I'm resentful. I'm grateful for the lessons I've learned. I'm grateful for the people that have come into my life that may not have if the timing hadn't been just so. I am grateful that I took a risk with my whole heart even though I'm not a risk taker. I'm grateful I tried absolutely everything I could and know there's absolutely nothing more I could have done for anything to have gone any differently or better. Am I relieved? Yes, I am relieved to no longer be in an unhealthy romantic relationship and to not be in an unhealthy living situation with a parent. I am also relieved that I have made enough personal progress to get out of situations like these if I find myself in them. Am I resentful? Yes, I am resentful that my former partner wasn't able to see or change her behavior. I'm resentful at all the things I gave up in terms of financial stability, independence, community, friendships, and other romantic pursuits for a person that was not the right match. I am also resentful that my parent continues to refuse to take personal responsibility for his actions and words including emotionally abusive language and physically abusive behavior. Am I inspired? Yes, I am inspired by the people around me with tenacity, self-compassion, and compassion for others who support me to become a better person through significant trauma and emotional pain. I am inspired by my own ability to keep going when the going is exceedingly difficult. I am also inspired by people's honesty about how to make wiser decisions.

I guess starting uni was a big thing, though it doesn't feel it now since I am so used to it. I wasn't too scared to begin with and it hasn't been particularly difficult, compared to school and work. There have been no tears over it. I've only begun to make a ton of friends, and last night went to Sarah's house with Chris, Chris, Anthony, George, and Tarrik. It has made me grow but I can't really see the changes, even when I look.

I walk almost daily in a natural setting that includes beautiful flora and fauna, awe-filling skies of striking cloud patterns and amazing sunsets. Each walk renews my feeling of gratitude for what has been placed on this earth that we can enjoy. Each walk instills wonder in me for the glories that exist, that have existed, that will exist in the future.

I went cliff jumping with some friends and my partner. I think I decided I wanted to do it because I suffer with anxiety and so often I refrain from doing things because I am afraid and so I wanted to prove to myself that I could go out and do something different and a bit scary. At first it was okay and I found it not too bad, but the sea conditions were not ideal - quite a lot of swell and big waves - and by the time we swam out to the second group of rocks it was quite rough and everyone else was okay as they had done it more times and were more confident swimmers but I was terrified and on the verge of a panic attack! I realised I was a weaker swimmer than I thought and swam most of the way back on my back because my arms are quite weak. I am glad that I did it as I learnt that I could deal with situations where I was out of my depth and I am extremely grateful that my partner was there with me, as without him I am not sure I would of made it back - he stayed with me on the second rocks whilst they were jumping and calmed me down, and never left my side as we swam back.

The most significant personal experience of the year was the birth of our son Escher. I got pregnant shortly after Rosh Hashana last year. So from the first little smudge on the ultrasound to the three month old baby with us today, the entire year has been about him. This experience has is so significant it is overwhelming to try and describe how it has affected me. From a practical side the way I spend my time is completely different now and all about him. I miss the freedom of my old life sometimes, but for the most part I am just so happy that the time for starting a family has finally arrived for me and to have the opportunity to watch Escher grow and change up close.

I started taking lexapro a few months ago. It's lead to some more intense, but good, conversations with B, as my ability to tolerate hard conversations and dig deeper improves. I do feel like I'm making more progress, especially with tolerating anxiety and having more energy.

I broke up with my first serious boyfriend last year around November, only a couple of weeks after our one-year anniversary. In some ways it's one of the hardest things I've done and ironically it wasn't the actual break up that was hard - my heart really broke in those few weeks (sometimes I think months) where I slowly began to realise that I didn't love him anymore. It's strange because every part of my conscious wanted to love him and stay with him and for everything to be fine but it just wasn't. It felt like whatever was wrong was coming from me and yet was completely out of my control. I couldn't stand his face by the end of it, the way he spoke and the way he went quieter and more nervous when he knew I was annoyed. The way he refused to stand up for himself. That's what really killed it. In time since I've done the whole typical emotional arc from regret (nearly getting back with him a couple of months later = big mistake) to missing him to pure hatred. He hasn't acted the way I thought he would - most recently he was really pretty horrible which is something I'd never have thought he actually had in him. So that hurts. As he was the one I lost my virginity to and I'll inevitably remember him for a long time, I do wish it had ended better and that we could at least get on... Sometimes in my stupid over-analytical way I convince myself I miss him but really it's just regret I suppose. And yet it's been really good for me - I've had to be independent and self-sufficient and love myself more than any boyfriend can love me which is what I've finally learned to do. My current boyfriend is a companion not a crutch, a huge asset to my life but not one I wholeheartedly depend on. I suppose everyone has regrets that don't seem to go away.

This past year I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl and became a mother! I feel so blessed - that our child is healthy, that we are a family of a three, that we can give her the life we wish for her. And at the same time I feel guilty that I am not oozing joy and happiness. At times I feel very isolated and even resentful - not at her but in general - that I am held captive and at the loss of my freedom. In my head I am a 22 year old carefree version of myself but in reality I am 31 with real responsibilities, including caring for my child full time, and I can't quite get over that dissonance. I keep waiting for the moment when I feel truly present and completely at peace.

I was able to heal the discs in my back allowing me to sleep in my bed next to my wife again! Grateful isn't a powerful enough word to describe the elation I feel. Knowing I can do this gives me the confidence to know I can do anything. As the phrase I was given goes - "Everything is either impossible or easy. So, if it's possible, it's easy!"

I attended my 20 year high school reunion. For the longest time I was worried that I wouldn't be able to make it for various reasons, ranging from (before the Internet and Facebook) fear of the organizers not being able to find me and let me know about it, and (more recently) lack of money, and I had already missed my 10 year reunion so I didn't want to miss two in a row. But I made it and had a great time, and was very relieved.

I was recruited for a new job, quite unexpectedly. Only a year into my professional career, I thought I was going to be at my former job for 3-4 more years. Instead, I was asked to interview for something completely different. It was a stressful experience, but also one that gave me a different perspective about my professional potential. Two weeks into the new job, I am grateful for the opportunity, relieved and inspired to be at such a well-organized workplace, and genuinely concerned for the well-being of my previous workplace, which seems to lurch from crisis to crisis. I know I was helping to stabilize things, and I regret not finishing, even though I am glad to be free of it.

My main significant experience is that I took early retirement 1 1/2 years ago. I am now more available to step up with family related care-giving issues my sister has been dealing with. This has also given me an opportunity to do other things but I will mention one that is important to me. I have been learning and need to do more.

My daughter's depression and anxiety over the summer before seventh grade. I'm relieved to be past the worst and see how dealing with this will help all of us come to terms with some of the challenges of being a family and the blend of supporting each other while inviting growth.

I was promoted to be the Head of our business unit and, around the same time my father died. I had so many conflicted emotions that it has taken most of the year to adjust but the experience has taught me not only to be resilient, but also to relax and trust others more.

I feel lil I can finally put my pass behind me with Wade and Bryon. I was hurt and resentful for so long and now...I'm ok!!

My sister died in April after being ill for many months. She was developmentally disabled, and tho 4 years older, I was her substitute mother all my life. Her mighty mouse. Sometimes, with love and patience, too often with resentment. During her last months, I came to know how much I cherished her, and was able to love her unconditionally and fully as she had always loved me.

I visited Auschwitz, Birkenau, Warsaw and Krakow this summer with a group of teens. One thing that was transformational for me was spending all day on Friday at Birkenau and Asuchwitz, then having shabbat dinenr with the group and then attending Kabbalat Shabbat at Beit Krakow, a progressive synagogue. They showed us that even in a place of our people's most devastating tragedy in 2000 years, Jewish life has returned and is beginning to thrive. http://nextleveljewisheducation.blogspot.com/2014/07/after-auschwitz-tuba.html

After not having passed auditions for a prestigious choir and a musical stage production the year before, last February I aced the audition for a really wonderful vocal ensemble (I like to think that my solo piece, "Rugiadose, odorose", from the book of old Italian art songs, made Ryan, the director, overlook my meager sightsinging abilities). We rehearsed all through the sing and had a marathon concert week in May. Rehearsals have started up again for our concerts in November. I am happy, and grateful to have found a place to sing the most interesting and beautiful music with other people. I am making new friends there. I am finding inspiration.

Moving my parents into a new home after 40 years in their old one. It has been emotionally exhausting, but also helping to focus on the future and what is best for them and their health.

I became a father. It changed my entire world. Gave me new reason for being... And hopefully for being better- I owe it to her. I could not do any of it without my wife...

We finally became members of the synagogue, that is where our sons preschool is. We'd been attending high holiday services there for years and his first year in preschool we took part in kids events there, but now it feels like not only do we belong, but we are also there for us.

I met Rene Lopez.. A man whom I have fallen in love with... A man who loves me for who I am... He accepts me and appreciates the woman I am... He is a great role model of a man for me, my boys and society... He lives with his 92 year old mother and takes care of his two teenage girls... He is humble , hard working and loves me and appreciates me for all that I am.. I did not think that I would have found all of this with one man... But we have an amazing relationship together and he makes me incredibly happy...

I was in a very difficult job situation that was abusive and demeaning by my boss. That I let it happen for several months was my fault. I am grateful that I was in the situation where I could quit without having another job lined up. And, within several weeks, landed my dream job. I love it. Recently had my 90 day review and the feeling is mutual.

5774 was rough for me in so many ways. I think I hit both my lowest and highest point over these twelve lunar months. I think getting a job as a teacher, like securing the job offer, was the most significant. It didn't signify the beginning of my teaching career (since school didn't start for a few more weeks), and it didn't mark the end of certification (since I still had that huge portfolio to do). But it means something so big and resonant, like I could do it. That people wanted me, and I could rise to the occasion. And I had not felt that way in so, so long. I was capable and ready and someone wanted me in their corner.

Entering and placing 4th in the Bob Cook Memorial race has opened up a whole new world of professional cycling. It is very inspirational.

One of my books because a minor best-seller and it really hit home for me how happy that made me, how much it enriched my life knowing that people were buying my book and enjoying it. This was so much more important to me than even getting my new job, which was honestly a huge deal. But it didn't compare to the feeling of being a popular author, and that made me realize where I need to spend my time and talents.

Building our camp for Burning Man was an amazing experience. From both an interpersonal level as well as logistical level, there was so much to learn and gain from this. I got to learn and observe what is important to me, what I will fight for. I got to challenge my own attitude surrounding ownership, roles and to really allow myself to let go of some things. I also was able to see that there are some things that I really care about, and some things that really, just don't matter. I'm grateful.

Being bitten by a dog on my own condo property and then having the board, all friends with the dog owner that I reported to the police, come after me with rules designed to target me and me alone. I've been wearing my inline skates while entering and exiting the building for 14 years now, and all of a sudden, after this incident, it's a problem. So having the threat of fines daily for just living my life is making me anxious and very resentful.

A lot has happened this past year. Two of the biggest events were the death of my best friend and moving across the country. It will be 1 year at the end of October and it still feels like I had just lost him. I'm still not sure how it has affected me, I knew it would happen one day, we all did. He had cystic fibrosis and a part of that is a shorter than average lifespan. Even though I knew it was inevitable, it came as such a shock. I thought things were going to get better for him, I thought I would have him around longer. He was on the donor list for a lung transplant, he had the most common blood type. He wouldn't have had to wait long. Partially I feel losing him strengthened my faith. I believe that everything G-d does and allows is for our own good, even if we can't see it at that time. While losing him was and still is one of the most painful events of my life, I know that G-d had a reason. He was such a beautiful person, incredibly positive, upbeat, full of love for other people and love for G-d. I wish I could be more like him, I loved him more than words could ever say and I miss him every day. Another experience has been moving to a new state. I feel like I was losing myself, my optimism was waning, my happiness depleting. I needed a new place, a fresh start. I needed to get away and go back to where I felt most at home. Now I feel relieved, I feel happy, I feel free.

My friend Jack committed suicide. He was always such a funny guy, super sharp witted, really friendly, had a contagious laugh and everyone loved him!! He left an impact on everyone he knew. I had no idea he didn't like himself. I wish I had been closer to him, he was delightful. This happened maybe a month before Robin Williams died, and I was sad all over again. Jack was my version of Robin Williams. I am able to get over people dying because of accidents, natural causes, but when it's suicide it leaves a hole in mine and everyone's hearts forever; I believe we are all connected spiritually, and this was a great loss.

I fell in love. I felt loved. I'm so grateful for this experience because I was starting to think I wasn't capable of loving another human being without expecting something in return.

Wow, so many significant events have happened this year. I think probably the most significant was being able to create a full-time position for myself in the Jewish community. I am thrilled to be creating a department of Jewish education here in Portland, I think it's a resource that's been lacking for so long and the fact that I came at the right time and space, has led to so many opportunities. I am so grateful, especially to my supervisor, for giving me the freedom to be able to attend conferences and to be able to create opportunities in the community.

Left the job that I'd been trying to leave for at least eight years. Started a new job. Hoping that it would be a major turning point but, at the moment, still not really feeling sure if I've done the right thing. Is this the job I really want to be doing? If I decide, in a few months' time, that it's not, will I have the courage to admit it and find something else?

I went to SE Asia for 6 weeks. Grateful I had the opportunity to see a different part of the world and be away from Eugene. It is inspiring to broaden my view of the world.

I came down hard with a mystery illness. I had fainted at the end of last year, and after a brief recovery proceeded to lose all my energy, get the shivers and chills and feelings of illness. Though some of the symptoms improved my energy levels slumped over the coming months, leaving me unable to carry out my day to day life. Also going on was treatment for low mood, so I was reeling from that too. Strange urine results prompted nephrology review, and during a stern consultation with the nephrologist were I was made to feel like a crank, that the feelings I had had were made up and I was just a useless individual. Then after a biopsy it was confirmed I had IgA nephropathy. Leading up to the results was incredibly nerve racking as a negative would just have confirmed what the doctor had previously inferred. It was also considered that I might have had glandular fever, though the initial test that would have confirmed it in the acute stage got lost. It was a hard pill to swallow that I wasn’t fully healthy, that perhaps in the future my health could come crashing down under the appearance of kidney failure. First I ignored it, then began to worry, were as now I have embraced it and just see it as more reason to look after myself and perhaps say no more often to the salty food I would have previously enjoyed. It opened my eyes to my vulnerability, my precariousness and forced me to embrace and love myself all the more. In some ways it has been insightful, a useful coming down to earth, appreciating life and nature in respect to our brief spell on earth. In the end though it’s just one of those things out of your control.

I moved back to Arizona. It's been an overall stressful process for me. The move itself was overwhelming but being back here a completely new roller coaster that I wasn't prepared for in the slightest. I don't feel like I'm home and honestly I feel so confused about what I'm doing and where I'm going. I feel regret but for what exactly I'm not sure.

I moved my family and animals out of our home of 25 years. We are losing it to foreclosure. I was able to move only a half an hour away, into my parents home that is mostly vacant(and huge). They are trying to sell it for over 2 years now. The choice to move before the foreclosure was settled was somewhat of a relief because it was doing something decisive and the hinge wad falling apart and no matter what I did it was a mess, and I wad able to have a fresh start. But it was really hard because it meant it was for real. The losing of the home and the leaving where I had raised my 5 children and all all animals. So many buried there. The amazing amount of memories. Most wonderful and fantastic. There was resentment due to how this all happened which I won't go into now. But so much was out of my hands. But I was able to make a home for my mostly grown children and our animals. For that I am do grateful. I am able to male somewhat of a fresh start, but I also do resent that it isn't mine and I am always fearful of doing something wrong or my family will that will end up causing trouble or very us kicked out or make me have to make another choice that I can't live with.

Husband at home for six weeks between jobs... Angry resentful and very stressed at the disruption in the routine and his sense that it was his vacation despite me and the boys....

Had sex. Etti died. Maor and I broke up. Dan and I got together. I graduated. Protective Edge. Dan and I broke up. So did Mom and Dad. Am currently lost, stumbling hurting. Hoping to steady before breaking beyond repair. Wondering, wishing to be ok.

On August 10th, Erev Tu B'Av, I got married. I am grateful. I am relieved. I am inspired. I am so many things. My wife and I have been together four years next month. 2 1/2 months into our relationship I was diagnosed with AML - Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. Later that year I had a bone marrow transplant. I've been recovering ever since. While the rest of our state and much of our country worked for marriage equality, she and I worked to keep me alive and then toward a better quality of life for me and for us. We are still working on that. Last year a few weeks before August 1st, a nurse referred to me as her wife, catching us both off guard, and surprising us with how much we liked the idea. In October we decided we'd get married legally and religiously. We signed the legal documents and our ketubah, and both were under our chuppah. I'm still working on finding words for how I feel about the experience of getting married and being married. So much of what we've been through together, and so much of what I've been through alone, has been so hard. So very hard. Often it's still hard. And having that beautiful day enveloped in love of friends and family and feeling God so very present . . . that day to look forward to, to experience, and now to lean back on . . . It was a big day. Being married is full of wonder for me. Being married to the woman I married gives me breath.

My friend, my husband, and I were driving over a very snowy Colorado mountain pass on our way to a conference this past spring. We had been diverted several times by accidents on the road and were now on a highway that required chains or four-wheel drive (we had 4wheel drive). My friend is an amazingly good driver, and she was simply not going to be pushed by the long line of cars behind us because every time she tried to go slightly faster, the car would respond ever so slightly with a little fishtailing feeling. When we got to the top of the pass, we saw a sheriff's deputy in an SUV and chains going just about the same speed as us, so we felt fairly validated. It was beautiful up there. The skies had cleared, leaving blue skies above and nothing but the white blanket of snow as far as our eyes could see . Suddenly, in my peripheral view, I saw a light blue sedan passing a whole line of cars. With its chipping paint and tinted windows, this car looked as though it was from the mid-80s. It certainly wasn't a four-wheel drive and it didn't have chains, but it had speed and a certain panache. It sailed past us, filling the space in front of us with a streak of blue on white against the blue sky, and as it took its place at the head of the pack, it began a gorgeous pirouette. It spun in a full circle and then sailed off the face of the earth, over the edge of the cliff, not even leaving a plume of snow in its wake. The trees didn't even shake to stand witness to its departure from the road. It was terribly beautiful. My friend and I are nurses, and our immediate instinct was to stop the car so we could help, but when she put even the slightest touch on the brakes, we started to swerve all over the road. I looked behind us and the entire highway had suddenly disintegrated into chaos. What had been a stream of cars was now multiple lanes trying to avoid the abyss. We realized we couldn’t help them in any case. We had no mountaineering equipment and it would take that and more expertise than we possessed to reach the passengers in that car, if they had managed to survive what was at least a hundred foot drop. We ended up calling 911. The way this affected me is that I am much more aware of the dynamics of chaos and how acts of aggression affect whole streams of society. I’m more interested in what it means to “hold your seat,” which is what my friend was doing so well in the way she was driving. Even when she saw the car pulling in front of her, she just moved even slower and didn’t let her ego become a factor at all and that save our lives and many of the lives of those behind us. I’ve had to look at what it means to really help someone, even at the risk of my own life. What are the ethics of having the ability to help, but doing so would place me at risk? Is that fair to people who are already reliant on me? I’ve also come to terms with the knowledge that there is a lot of suffering in the world, but there is far more beauty. Even within suffering, there is amazing beauty. I will never forget the vision of that beautiful spin of blue on white against the blue sky as it sailed over the edge of the world.

I discovered natural language processing and it gave me focus in my graduate studies. I have been in the process of re-starting my career after having children, and I've had a hard time finding focus. My children have been the center of my life, but i want to work again. After finding an area of computer science and data science i am passionate about, i have been able to envision my future return to work. I feel inspired and energetic about work because i have something to try to master and it feels gratifying because i have really struggled wih self esteem since i lost my job 3 years ago. I have so much more direction and less fear because i have a better sense of what i want to accomplish. I feel like i can build a new identity that isn't centered around my kids.

I was dating a man for the first 6 months of the year. I was really really into him. I started to believe it could work out for the long term. I thought we were on the same page. He said things that made me believe we were but we weren't. He was still looking for other people after 6 months and after having said he wasn't. It was heart breaking and made me question whether I was being fooled the entire time.

There have been a couple of health issues for my husband and getting them taken care of was traumatic for him and scary for me. We are still working on some other issues and hope to have those addressed soon.

My husband stopped working full time and it made me very resentful

Discussion with P indicating how unhappy he is in our relationship and that he thinks about splitting up - I think about this as well, am more sad than unhappy, and try to recognize me part - I am trying to move away from resentment tho I understand that love is just not enough - do I focus on the fact that he is just an angry man and depressed and unhappy as an excuse? Do I forgive or rely on his yucky behavior and use that as an excuse to be selfish with my body and unconditional love?

Moved office location (to avoid paying double the rent). Significant energy and resources required. Disrupted normal business activities. Three weeks later we are moved, settled, and life goes on... We actually like the new location better than the old one.

I went on an anticipated cruise and I got sick the first day that I got there. I wasn't able to enjoy the cruise , and most of all I was disappointed. I learned a few things: - Disappointment and frustration led to my illness - I got sick because I cared more about how my husband was behaving, than I cared about how to take care of my own needs. - It is ok to plan, but have no expectations as to the outcome. Be open to whatever comes your way, look for the lesson in that experience, and be greatful for it. I am greatful.

I sat beside my Father In-Law Fred in the hospital for most of this July while he slowly starved to death. The cancer had robbed him of the ability to get any meaningful nutrition, or much hydration, and yet he lasted the entire month. It was tortuous for him, and all of us. I feel a little resentful, but I don't know where to direct that. G-d didn't do this, cancer isn't an entity I can be pissed at, no PERSON caused or complicated this. It's just a crappy situation, and it has left some more permanent tarnish on my groove, just like losing my whole family in 2012.

Becoming a bat mitzvah at age 62 was one of the best experiences of my life. Though it was a lot of work, I did feel grateful and inspired.

My relationship of 17 years with my partner, ex-partner now, came to an end. We remain good friends and there was no drama involved in the separation. Ultimately, I am grateful for how we managed this transition and I am glad we were able to handle this as transformed adults. When we share this experience with others they are often surprised and inspired by our story.

Perhaps the most significant experience I've had is the birth of my first grandchild. I say that in pure visceral terms. It just feels like a very big deal -- another passage, and stage in my life, the life of my daughter, and now the life of her son & my grandchild. At the simplest level, it's just an experience of love, and the unique connection we feel to those who carry our genes, and are part of our families. I'm grateful for that, and humbled by it. Jonah's birth also forces me to be more aware than ever of the danger to the planet, and the need for all of us to operate in very different ways if the earth and humankind are to survive and prosper. In that respect, Jonah's birth makes me want, in a more personal way, to help people become more conscious and more healthy. It also makes me more worried, because it is hard to imagine what life will be like in 40 or 50 years when he is fully grown up. I had a number of other significant experiences this year in my work life, but it's hard to match Jonah's birth for emotional impact.

Lots of things have happened this year. All health related things and I've grown not to take for granted health and the beings I love in my life. Both of my beloved cats were diagnosed with cancer. I've been nursing one of both of them the whole year. Coming face to face with the fact that I could lose one or both of them has been challenging but also has got me really valuing my time with them. I've been scared of and cried more than I ever have this year. I've learned to ask for help or at least let people see me more vulnerable than ever. I've learned to deal with blood and needles and guts and insides. The last piece of this is learning to let one of them go... Grandma died. Even though I wasn't very close to her I still felt it more than I expected. My appendix burst. This took me through one of the scarier things in my life: surgery and brush with death. My avoidance of my own health patterns came to light. I spend more time giving my kitties top notch care than I do for myself. This needs to change.

I did my first 5k this year. I know it doesn't sound like much but when you've never done one it's a pretty big deal. I feel grateful for the experience and inspired to do more races. I enjoyed the training, the pushing and the sense of relief when I crossed the finish line. It's important to always have a North Star. Something to guide you and to work towards. This challenge was physical, emotional and mental. I can't wait to see what else I can do. I'm hooked!

I had four significant experiences, although none of them happy ones. In May, we lost my husband's 19 year old cousin, Jesse. I don't believe I ever knew anyone so young who had passed away. I was inspired, no, actually in awe of how courageous Jesse was and how full of grace, strength and thoughtfulness Jesse's mom, dad and brother were and continue to be. Two weeks later I lost a very dear friend of 35 years. I never lost a friend before. Although Russ had been ill on and off for years, I was devastated. Russ had survived 5 surgeries in a short period of time. It was joked that he was on his second round of nine lives. We were all scared but never thought we would lose him. He came through the last surgery but it was all too much for him, he didn't come out of the induced coma. Russ always was and continues to be an inspiration. I miss him. On June 23rd I was told that my position of 9 years was being eliminated. Myself and 31 colleagues were blindsided and dumbfounded. At the same time, my beloved Max was sick. I couldn't focus on the job loss as much as I was consumed with caring for my dog. My last day on the job was July 4th. I took it as a sign. I became grateful for the time to devote to Max. On July 3rd Max took a turn for the worse. He spent 4 days in the hospital. My husband and I were grateful to be able to see him twice a day. There seemed to be small signs of improvement but it was short lived. Money became short very quickly, too. We took Max home. We were given signs of Max's old self but soon realized these were gifts, moments of memories to hold on to. We had to make the tough but loving decision. We said good night and sweet dreams 11 days later. We're not over it. I fear we'll never be. Max also showed courage, strength and great love. We miss him terribly. Someone assured me that although I may not believe him, all these losses were from G-d, who is making way for better things. I do believe him, though it is hard still to see how. How could taking away love make room for anything better?

Adaptive A1 training with Simon. Thanks to Alice, I attended an adaptive leadership course. I attended it with a lot of crap in my head and didn't really take on the whole content. It set me up for change though. I am constantly learning and leading in situations where it's required. There's still hangover of inactivity in my life, but that is being reduced slowly.

Within the last year i have really become a true leader. I have gotten involved a lot within the Jewish community. Things that i have done include: Jewish Studies camp and being so involved with Maccabi. It has really opened my eyes and made me want to be a teacher and a leader. i love making people happy. i am truly inspired to continue with both camps and do many more things like this in the future. And give both of these things my all! It affected me because it made me believe that people do look up to me in many ways and i am not just a someone.Both of these camps have made me stay connected to my Judaism and that is the most important factor.

Probably the most significant experience that has happened this year is my job change in June. I am now leading a Global Organization of 140 people (almost 6X the size of any prior organization I have managed). The opportunity presented itself to me - I wasn't looking for a change - but it met many of my criteria for the next role I was looking for - so I jumped at it. I am grateful, as I had been in my past role for 5 years, and the kind of work I was doing was kind of what I've done my whole career. This new job gives me the opportunity to create an entirely new organization, is a completely different kind of work - and I am learning so much! I am so inspired - also a bit overwhelmed - the workload is immense - some days I come home and just can't do anything else - other days - I am energized to keep working on moving this group forward - and creating more visibility and excitement.

Within from 9/28/14 to 9/28/13 I got a boyfriend!!! Holy shit how did that happen. I am about to move to my own apartment. I have a brand new smartphone LG G2 and I have a full time job. I'm scared but I am taking a leap of faith. In the past year I have been inactive (secretly AWOL) from the national guard. I honestly don't plan on going back. I got done with FEMA Corps. Great experience. Loved it. Im not sure if I really miss my team or not but it was a great experience to meet them. I kinda do wish I could have don more with them but I'm just really happy for the experience. Relieved and resentful. It was so good to be away and travel all around the country and have everything taken care of. Resentful because I was not making money at all. I lost 3 major credit cards. Luckily I still have 1. So not my credit is bad but I really need to get it back right.

I ran the NYC marathon with my brother. I had been in Hong Kong when he'd called me and said, "I'm going to do it!" and it was the moment in his life, and his recovery from addiction that was going to change all of us. So he trained, and I trained, and everything was going great until the Friday before the race. And then suddenly, It didn't look like it was going to happen - there was a shooting at LAX on the day he was supposed to leave and he was grounded in the airport; shaken, but fine. I was scrambling to get him rescheduled; found the last seat on a flight leaving LA and got him to NYC on time. It was a miracle flight; best $700 I ever spent. So we got to the bus on race morning. And we ran. And I saw him at the finish tent at the end; having passed Mums and Daddy at the finish line in the Grandstand - surprising my brother by flying them out. There was no greater moment in my life than embracing my brother wearing our finisher's medals. He spent ten years as a meth addict, and to see him come from that to finishing the NYC marathon - he is my greatest inspiration.

Well, everything I planned on doing from last year - done! I moved in with David, got married, and am now 5 months pregnant. I would say that I am grateful, but this doesn't begin to describe how I am feeling. How aware I am of my great fortune.

I finally started nursing school, which has been my goal for the past couple of years. I am grateful that I have finally reached my goal, however I see nursing school as just the beginning. I know that I will continue on in my education--it is only a matter of what and when.

Having Jonah was far and away the most significant experience of my past year. He is such a warm and happy spirit. I am so grateful for him. I was so relieved to emerged from the difficult pregnancy and so quickly regain my health and good spirits, and to find so easily my loving connection to this wonderful sweet little boy. I feel much more at peace and on even footing since he has arrived. Even though I knew the pregnancy and chronic pain was coloring everything else throughout the winter, it was powerful to come home to myself after the pain was gone. I had so many doubts and fears about labor, delivery, expanding our family, and the move and was relieved that things worked out so well.

The accidental drowning of our friends' 15 year old son this summer made me see how families help each other through difficult times in a way I hadn't seen before. It made me feel grateful for being able to support the family in their grief and relieved that it wasn't happening to any of my children. The boy's mother took the time to truly examine her son's life; what he cherished and what intrigued him. Her response inspired me to accept my own children for who they are.

My boss of 13 years retired and I got a new boss this summer. It has been a good change. I am much busier than in the past. I have more responsibilities than ever. I am grateful to work under someone I can learn from . I feel over worked now that I have twice as much to do.

I had a very significant positive experience teaching about Teshuva at the National Havurah Committee Summer Institute. It made me feel happy and grateful.

I accepted a job offer for a full time teaching job. This event and decision changed my life and made me an adult. It gave me confidence and I rose to the challenge of working hard and doing good work for a school where I want to be. I nailed the interview, prepared for it, rose out of the depths of fear and depression to take on the challenge. I was ready. I through myself out there by accepting fear and accepting fate, whatever it would be, so blessings rained down.

I was so bummed when I missed out on something important to me work wise. It threw me deeply for a loop. But I used it as an opportunity to hunker down and think about what I truly wanted. And I have reset. But it is still work centered. I wonder if I am still off? Health, life, love. These are important things. But I am happier.

Sailing in Portugal. Filled me with positivity.Very grateful it happened. Not relieved, as I wanted to spend more time with my new friends I made there. Very much inspired to meet a lot of people from around the globe.

This year, I started over by moving here (to America) one day AFTER my birthday. I left my job to pursue my dream of learning about the fashion industry. I got my long overdue closure with Jed. I've gotten my heart broken x number of times - and not because of a boy. It's been because of me learning something new. I've become more attuned to my emotions. I met Antoine. And I've been on an LDR since June to now (end of September).

Look. It's late, and it's day six. I've opened this window a couple times, and I don't know how to answer this question. I'm changing so much. I'm changing all the time. Has it always been like this? I think it has. A significant experience? Ok, here it is. This summer, accusations ~~surfaced~~ that I have sexually assaulted multiple different people on campus. No details came up. I don't know who, and I don't know when. But, of course, looking back, there were times where I knew I had consent, and there were times when I didn't know. I already know that our phones come from strip mines and toxic dumps and slave factories like my clothes, and don't get me started on the food we eat. But here was something I had done, personally, directly, which hurt someone. I cannot remember ever having felt so guilty. The a priori terms of this life are morally imperative. Cohabitation, Levinas via Butler says, implies the possibility and the risk of causing harm, and therefore the very existence Other levies an ethical mandate upon the Self. This is an essentially Jewish/nonJewish perspective. What is best to do? How can I serve the life of this world? Everywhere I look, I am finding that the answer begins (and ends?) with the working against being a causer of harm, against causing harm, with orienting to begin to cease to cause harm One night, I wrote this poem: these rare moments of bliss stolen undeserved out of heaven offer me answers: what can it mean a simple heart both hands clean? look, I always find myself human and despoiled here is some mystery: service to the divine is holy, and it is blissful, but it implies human being, which implies having caused harm, continuing to cause harm. how can i look to god when i feel so ashamed?

I had my first child. After a decade of chronic pain and endometriosis, I found out on April Fool's Day, yeah, no joke, that I was pregnant. I feel very grateful. He is an AWESOME kid. Seriously. I can't talk about him too much with other parents for fear that they'll throttle me. He's good natured, doesn't cry much, spit up, or have trouble sleeping. And he fell pretty naturally into Elimination Training at 8 1/2 months. I LOVE this kid. He is such a joy.

Some of the significant experiences of this year have been Maggie's first year, starting a blog of life stories (A Ditch Runs Through It), Tony's parole, Arwen's return. All-in-all, these are satisfying and human events.

I got engaged I never really believed I would marry. I moved him in with me which I wished I didn't but I felt I needed the money. Another significant event was being laid off from work. All of that is giving me a journey of emotions--disbelief, sadness, fear, trust, comfort from support, relief that I have help, frustration as ith the system, felling unappreciated, feeling angry, feeling like G-d got my back! Learning HE never fails!!

Our son was born at the very beginning of the year. It definitely changed my life! I am awestruck by all he has done and how he has grown in one years' time, I am overwhelmed by his mother's infinite love and patience and insight, and I am truly challenged by how hard it is to be a genuinely present and active parent.

Being retired, was scared at first but now I m so busy, but fun busy I love it...so grateful to do what I want to do when I want...relieved from all the stress work brought...can go away anytime for however long...God is Great.

I ran the London marathon this year. I wrote two years ago that I wanted to be runner again and this year I achieved that. The second thing is that I came off the anti-D's for the first time since 2010. The brain shakes were horrible and it took a longer time to wean my body off them than I'd imagined (I'd guess 3 months) but it felt like an achievement. I'm scared. Very scared.

This past month my grandfather passed away. I'm crushed. But that's really selfish of me. He was very suck and he could barely speak by the end because he couldn't get enough oxygen. If he isn't happy now I would be resentful, but if I think think like that I don't think I'd be able to survive. So I imagine him sing and laughing on a beach with his friends, waiting for my grandma and his daughters. He changed my life in so many ways and losing him has changed it even more.

I started a new job working with veterans. I have never ever identified with veteran stuff before. Maybe because I didn't like it. Then I was a navy wife, which sucked because being a vet and a navy wife were very opposite things. There is a lot of dissonance there, I have never really felt like I fit in anywhere. Now I have a network of friends who are also veterans and they accept me for who I am. A veteran. Not a navy wife, but a veteran. They don't even seem to care that I married ass hat. Most of them understand the rift it caused in my soul. Now I am applying for benefits for ptsd and mst. I have learned that MST is not what I thought it was and I most def have it. The whole process has stirred up a lot of crap iin my mind and I am cutting again. I forgot that I was raped. It was a date rape, but a rape all the same. I feel nothing about that and it worries me. In some ways, I am grateful, for the people I have met that have helped me reclaim a part of myself that I forgot. On the other hand, I don't know if remembering all of this is a good thing or a bad thing. I am more of a mess than I have been in years. It is affecting my family. So - I guess I feel both angry and grateful.

The only significant experience I can think of is meeting Jamie for the first time. She literally took my breath away! I'm so grateful that she walked into my life!

I suppose one of the most significant experiences for me this year has been building Ometz. I felt inspired and still I occasionally am moved almost to tears during services. The fact that we have changed a lot of people's mindsets about Conservative Judaism means a lot to me. I know this is how I would like to live my Jewish life, Conservative Judaism is still for me. I'm grateful that we have been able to have any amount of success because no one seems to have any success in anything like this right now. I'm also proud because I feel like I'm back. I'm working hard, I'm working well, and I'm protecting myself through the process. This semester I am starting to have some moments of feeling burnt out which is concerning. That is the very thing I am trying to avoid and it felt so beautiful that I had regained my spirit. There is still a lot of work to be done though and I don't know what life will be like after college of course. That's when things will get real.

This year, I had a miscarriage. It was devastating in so many ways. My husband had had such joy at the prospect of becoming a father, and I was crushed by his deflation at losing that dream (at least for the time being). Of course, it hurt me too, that something that was both of us didn't make it, but his pain hurt me even more. I found it interesting that my mourning was less for the child that wasn't - I wasn't sure how to mourn something that hadn't really come into existence, although there was certainly a mourning period there too - but for the people already here. It was also hard to see my father acting in a grandfather-like role with a friend's grandchildren and wanting that for him. I felt like we lost a dream more than something physical. Physically it was very difficult as well, but at least that was fairly temporary. I feel like we got through it mostly by recognizing this was a delay of everything we'd dreamed of, not a loss of it, once we were assured there wasn't something wrong with us that would keep us from having children. I feel like all that pain helped me know that we are strong as a couple to be able to handle a terrible circumstance and that we really do want children.

My retirement. Grateful and inspired and resentful. Such a significant turn in my life.

The whole process of supporting my partner through her pregnancy and birth, and then having a new child for the past eight and half months has been the most transformative experience of my life. And at the same time, it has felt smooth and natural. It has helped restore a sense of wonder and has given me new understandings of responsibility toward others.

I took a job working for a new company as a developer. I have never had any experience as a developer and have no idea how to code. It's been interesting and challenging. On top of that I had my third child a month before taking the job and my wife left her job to stay at home and take care of the baby. It has made for some interesting times.

this has been a really stressful month. I started having trouble in my marriage and started to see a therapist and started listening to myself that I am gay. That process has been scary because having a family like i have now has been one of my biggest goals. The stress has caused me to have a miscarriage and caused heart problems that I had to be hospitalized for.

Biblical School graduation, and the weeks leading up to it. The way the bible culminated AMAZINGLY, beautifully in Revelation. It was like ALL the questions in my life had been answered, there were no questions, and no fear. So much peace, the Lord granted me. I'm so grateful. “And he who sat upon the throne said, ‘Behold, I make all things new.’ Also he said, ‘Write this, for these words are trustworthy and true.’ And he said to me, ‘It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give water without price from the fountain of the water of life. He who conquers shall have this heritage, and I will be his God and he shall be my son.’ Come, Lord Jesus!”

Hm. I was (and still am) unemployed for several months. It was terrible. In the beginning I was really depressed. I would fall asleep from boredom and would be completely listless. I was so sad and lethargic, emotionally drained. I was miserable. I felt like a bad person because I was not doing anything. For me, it is very important to be active. I feel that human beings should be using every minute of their time in productive and helpful ways, and if not, be building themselves up to be those kinds of people. So it was very hard for me to feel like I was not doing anything. Eventually, I got used to it and accepted the fact that I was not employed, and that being upset about it was certainly not going to help me be productive! I am still doing essentially the same things- looking for a job, volunteering, learning new skills such as music- but I am not upset anymore. What a difference! I learned a few things from this experience: 1. I need to be around people. I get very unhappy and lifeless if I don't. 2. Finding a job is harder than I thought! 3. I should appreciate employment when I get one. 4. Sometimes you can't use your talents and skills. Sometimes there is nothing you can do but wait and try to make the waiting worthwhile.

I think my significant experience was healing from the trauma of the year before. It happened slowly. And I'm almost all the way back. I am grateful. Relieved. Maybe still a little resentful. :) One thing is for certain - I love myself again.

I kicked Ken out of my house and out of my life, mostly due to his lying, drinking & anger issues. I had lived that kind of life with Ted before & hated it. If I had known that Ken had those issues, I would have never married him. I was just going to have "flings" with guys, NSA, but on 12/6 I met Jim. Here I am now living in SC with him. So grateful that the bad things turned out so good.

Five years ago, I changed careers and became a teacher. I had been working hard for three years in a school that I really enjoyed, and had been promoted to department head. During my first year as department head, I had gotten so involved in the life of the school and had a fantastic team in my department. We had many plans in place for what what we were going to do over the next two years of my term as head. At the same time, there was one teacher in my department who caused no end of grief for myself as head, as well as for the other teachers, and students. He didn't show up, didn't do his student assessments and evaluations, took leaves and then returned at the most inopportune times, didn't teach anything when he was in school, got into loud fights on the phone with his X and so on. My colleagues and I ended up doing what seemed like endless hours of extra work to make sure his students had things like report card marks and comments on their essays. In June, my Board cut a lot of jobs, and I was "bumped" out of my school and out of my job by a teacher with more seniority than me. I loved that job and was excited about the next two years and was so disappointed that I would not get to finish what I started. I was also worried all summer as I didn't have a placement for fall. And I was resentful as hell because the teacher who had made so much extra work for me and every one else just gets to keep his job. The up side is that I did get placed in another school one week before classes started. But it isn't the same.

I got engaged last year. I have mixed feelings about the whole experience. Hard to describe what I even feel. It felt like the person I was getting engaged to didnt want to get engaged. There was always an aura of resentment in the air. I couldnt shake that feeling off. I still cant, I just hope with time it gets better. I hope we both figure out what we want out of this.

the RRRA experience was definitely one of the most significant things that happened to me this year. I have yet to identify how I feel about the whole thing but I know that I learnt a lot.

Someone fell in love with me. He makes me feel like I an easy to love. I've never had anyone in my life like him. right now I am scared, because I desperately don't want to lose him. We love each other and I am afraid that he is going to move somewhere that I can't follow. I don't want to love somebody else.

My new job. My Jbl. Grateful. Relieved. Inspired.

When I graduated from business school, I felt a new confidence. I'm grateful and proud of myself, but also relieved that it's over.

I separated from my family. I'm grateful, relieved, inspired, scared, sad, lonely, unsure and really okay.

Ha habido muchos momentos importantes en mi vida este año pasado, algunas para bien y otras para mal. He aprendido que van a haber momentos difíciles en la vida, pero que tenemos sobreponernos y aprender la lección que nos dan con el apoyo y la fuerza. El acontecimiento más significativo de este año pasado ha sido que una de mis mejores amigas hay sido hospitalizada debido a una emergencia grave por un periodo muy largo. Me ha enseñado que la vida puede terminar en cualquier momento y para eso hay que estar agradecidos. También me ha enseñado a ser fuerte y de apoyar a aquellos que lo necesitan. Estoy entristecida por no apreciarla tanto como debería haberlo hecho.

One of the big experiences this past year (and there were several) was our eldest son Eli becoming a Bar Mitzvah back in February. This was something we had been preparing for as a family for a long time, but when it actually came about, it was pretty dang amazing and wonderful. I was so proud of Eli and so moved by watching him stand up in front of the congregation and a bunch of his family and friends and sing and pray and sermonize. I could really see the way he was growing and becoming his own person, and I felt such a huge love and admiration for who he is becoming. It is such a blessing to have a son like Eli, and to feel so close to him. The bar mitzvah was also a wonderful event to share with friends and family. Not everyone we hoped would be there was there, but many people did show up to celebrate with us and that felt really good. I will always remember having four generations of my family standing up at the bimah, and the torah being handed from my grandma, to my father, to me, to Eli. There was also a "close friends and family" dinner afterwards at the Left Bank Restaurant, at which many wonderful speeches and toasts were made, and much love and gratitude was shared around. We have an awesome family. There were a lot of details to wrangle throughout the planning of the event itself and a lot of pushing Eli through all his required study and mitzvah project (he visited weekly with an elder in our congregation), and though it all wound up coming off just fine, I am really relieved that it is all over. It was a huge project on my plate.

We are pregnant! We are grateful, excited, nervous and anxious!

We became foster parents this year after discussing the idea for most of our marriage. Having this new little person that we're responsible for has been wonderful, exhausting, terrifying and heart-wrenching. It's been hard to adjust to having a 2 year old in our lives again; and it hasn't always been easy, but overall, it's been an amazing experience.

I opened up my own business. A real estate brokerage. I am inspired. It has been frightening at times and I have questioned myself, but it has been a great journey and is going to get even better. It's going to help me grow and become closer to the fullness of who I am. What a joy to have the courage to be true to myself!!!!

My daughter went on the March of the Living this year and was the first member of our family to walk into Auschwitz since my father in law walked out of the gates on the Death March. Her trip had a profound effect on our entire family and it has inspired me to get more involved with global initiatives against genocide.

Just recently I decided to undertake a cross-country move so that I could assume care for my critical ill mother. This was a difficult decision as it meant a drastic change in lifestyle. It was the right thing to do, and I was incredibly lucky that this decision was made easier by an unbelievably supportive partner, and a job that agreed to let me continue working in my position remotely. I am grateful to my job, and to my partner however, this change is pretty stressful, and has impacted my life in a huge way.

On October 11th at 9:43 pm, I gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. It was not only the most significant experience of my year but of my life. Becoming a mother has been the most life changing experience I could imagine. Everything has shifted perspective and I now see the world through the lens of another tiny person. Every thing I do, think, say and decide I do with him in mind. I am so grateful that god has given me the gift of Ryder. He has taught me so much about how much I can love, how patient I can be, how tired I can be, how happy I can be, how worried I can be and yes, even how resentful I can be. While becoming a mother has been filled with the highest of highs, I would be lying if I said that there were not some lows associated with it as well. Becoming a new person is not without some grieving over the woman I was prior. Saying hello to this new three person life means saying goodbye to our old life and while I would never want to go back, I do miss it from time to time. Being one who does not embrace change relatively easily, every day is a test and a trial and every day is also a great gift that I am so blessed to be given.

my mom was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. i was resentful and angry about it at first. she has been sick so many times in the past and has had more than her share of illness and pain. though i can't say i'm grateful for the diagnosis, this past year has given me time with her that i will forever be grateful for. it's not often you get to live out your love for the people in your life and this illness has given me just that opportunity. to be there for her in her end days and take care of her in a way that honors all that she has done for me.

I lost my job under as a result of the unethical behavior of others outside my control. It took 10 months to find a new job. During that time, I was extremely stressed and, consequently, became very ill. My illness made it very difficult to search for a new job. I had to borrow money from my mother to make ends meet. My boyfriend stuck by me through the whole ordeal. I am now employed in a good job, and I'm recovering physically and financially. I am extremely grateful for this. However, I recognize that I need to forgive the people who were involved in the loss of my old job. I need to create a new story. The way I explain what happened when people ask leaves me feeling unhappy.

The consecutive loss streak of the Mega Millions and Power Ball lotteries remains a significant life experience. It truly demonstrates that persistence and practice don't always pay off (or maybe I still need more practice!). The only redeeming value is the knowledge that as a voluntary school tax, these efforts have been helping others. However, it is hard not to be resentful especially given the reported wastefulness of the many winners. Just another reason to practice meditation.

I ran my first half marathon this summer, which is something I never thought I'd do. I'm inspired to keep running.

I gave birth to my beautiful second son. His birth was amazingly difficult, coming on the heels of the stomach flu, but I was able to have a VBAC, which was a huge goal of mine. Of COURSE his arrival has transformed me! It has been overwhelming, terrifying, and difficult learning to mother two boys. It has been awe-inspiring watching them develop a relationship -- it's just beginning, but I love seeing the seeds being sown. And baby Johnny is such a sweet squishy ball of smiley love. He is amazing. Our family feels complete.

The most significant experience in the past year is making the choice to move out of state. It is going to affect every aspect of my life. My feet already feel planted in this new land...my mind has wandered and feels settled in washington, however my heart is full of anxiety over leaving my mom. I am going to miss her and the mountains. I am grateful this experience and change is happening. I am relieved and excited to begin a new life, a new season, a new time that I have been dreaming about for years. But I am anxious and a bit torn about leaving my mom.

I know this may sound crazy, but i am grateful for the day I realized my ex-boyfriend raped me. That knowledge allowed me to stop my 7-month long mourning of the end of the relationship. It made me relieved and resentful. Relieved that I could now move on with my life bc I could now see how horrible we was. Resentful bc I hate how he treated me.

I got married to Lynette. This has formalised our future and we now have a commitment to growing into our dreams together. I am inspired by this commitment and relish the future.

I moved to Israel this past November. It has monumentally impacted my life. I am unbelievably grateful for the opportunity to have parents that can monetarily support me and cared enough about me to want to help me. I'm relieved that in coming to Israel I am able to slowly heal myself. Sometimes when we're broken, the question is can i become whole and is being whole, lead to happiness. For both of those the answer is yes.

My biological mother found me. We spoke on the phone. I made the choice to accept/make them part of my life. Then I met my "half-brother" when he visited Boston. Then I met my mother and "step-father" in person. Then they came to Pittsburgh to visit. Then we went to Texas to meet our new extended family. It's been a big year. I've written a good deal about this as part of my personal processing. I've been overwhelmed with family pictures and family stories.....trying to absorb them and somehow make them feel real, make them mine. It has been huge. I am grateful. It's been like champagne. A lovely, dizzying high in the beginning. And now, the real work of creating and sustaining relationship across every kind of distance. I realize I am also dealing with my issues of being a daughter to my Mom, who raised me. I am working to find out how to be a daughter to my Eema, bringing the best of what I know about being a daughter and attempting to quietly leave behind what did not serve in the past (so much heartache and unfinished business in that). Stuff comes up. Projection. Impatience. Defensiveness. It's hard to go from 0 to 60 in a few seconds. This is going to take time. God willing, there will be enough time.

the support i received from friends and family when my husband left me. i felt held in love at a moment when i feel so broken.

My brother died. I am angry, hurt, sad, frustrated...and yet, it taught me to wake up. To live again. To realize that things don't last forever and being scared of the future or change will not allow you to grow as a person...so I quit my job and started chasing my dreams. It's almost been 2 months. I miss him like crazy but I know he'd be proud of me.

I proposed to my girlfriend. I did it right asked her parents, made the proposal special. I am immensely grateful that I have Aleeza in my life, she makes the world a great place to be and a realize to enjoy much more of life. She smooths my rough edges and helps me to be better than I could bewitch anyone else. It brings a different prespective on life working for not just yourself but also having someone there experiencing life's ups and downs.

Angel and I bought a house in the small (ok, microscopic!) town I grew up in and I went back to the job I had before I worked in Joplin. These two choices have been amazing for me. Being back out in the country has been wonderful for us. Truly. And my having a job where I'm appreciated has been amazing, too. We also recently found out that Angel is able to be pregnant and have babies, something that she's thought was impossible for over a decade. Right now, things are great. Really, really great.

I've spent most of the past year getting over the death of my grandmother. It hasn't been easy, and I've spent my share of time in therapy working through it. She wasn't just my grandmother, she was one of my best friends, my babysitter, second mother, and more than I can say. It's been weird getting used to not having her around, and there are times when I miss her more than I can say, but life goes on, and she would be the first to tell me not to dwell on the past but to live in the present for the future. There's really only one quote that can attempt to summarize her and it's this: "Life's a banquet and most poor fools are starving to death!" That is how she lived her life and I've been trying my best to follow in her footsteps.

I became a vegan and lowered my cholesterol! I am very grateful to be eating so healthily and taking care of myself and the environment in this way.

My mum had 2 strokes and a heart attack and is now in a rest home with little chance of leaving. It has made me realise how our lives can change in an instant and how incredibly fucking important it is to do the things we talk about doing and stop putting them off. It brings up a lot of things about my relationship with my mother and how conflicted it is. About being adopted and how that has affected my relationships throughout my life. I'm grieving for my mum already and for all the things we can never do now.

I got into Longwood. I am so grateful and so very relieved. I'm not sure where I'll be this time next year, but it will be a university.

My friend Susan and I are back on good terms again ...I'm really happy and grateful about this as despite our differences I have always considered her like a second sister... and it has I think taken a lot of forgiveness, acceptance and openness on both our parts to achieve this.

Significant experience in the past year: Completing a full year at my professional places of work: HSC and BT. It's changed me in a way in which I appreciate: being more laid back. I am VERY grateful and relieved that I do not have a very full time profession. I am not resentful that this happened and I'm pleased that I had the choice. I am inspired to be a better mother, wife and housewife.

We got our residency to Costa Rica and moved all our belongings down here.. We had been traveling here for many years and a finally made the permanent move. My husband is calmer and more relaxed, we love our friends and our life there, but I look forward to another ,prove back to the US as we age and our health needs the familiarity of language and culture.

No truly significant experiences. Some travel, some romantic disappointments, climbed a mountain, saw theater, gained more responsibility at my shul.

My boyfriend and I moved in together. It's a mix between terrified, cautious, and excited. Taken in the simplest form, we love each other, and love spending time together, so why not share an apartment. But it's so much bigger than that. Every small thing becomes a test of our relationship, but now and decades from now. Managing money, managing a home, managing schedules - it feels like each thing is the future writ small. I can't ignore it, but I want to also be able to revel in the moments where it's just us, in our home, together.

My boyfriend temporarily put us on a break for awhile. I think it was three to four months. I was very upset at the moment and when it happened. I was only able to talk to one other person about it and what was going on. He moved me out of his bedroom and into my own room. The separation was very difficult. Though, the whole situation was necessary for us both to work on ourselves a part as individuals and together as a couple. I'm thankful now for this happening because it made me reflect on what is really important to me. It helped to strengthen our relationship. We are still working on our relationship but it is a lot better now than it was before. I'm truly grateful that he had the for site to see this and the strength to do it.

I failed with a client engagement. I simply couldn't do the work anymore. I had to face that my resistance was as much a reckoning that I had to do my right work as much as an unwillingness to follow through. It was painful and confusing. I suppose I'm still processing some of the failure. But I know I am on the right path. So, it was probably for the best on my end. To keep doing work that sucked my soul wouldn't have led to better results. The incident was another critical piece of major change I've undergone the past few years.

The construction fiasco was certainly the most significant event from the last year, affecting more than just our physical home. We were emotionally drained from the experience, financially wrecked, spiritually drained. Our dreams were dashed. We felt we were forced to grow up in a terrible way: our trust in the outside world -- and the humans we encountered -- was marred forever. As teachers, we tend to show the world as we hope it will be. We teach our students to behave in ways that they *should*. The world outside, however, is rarely as ethical or honorable as we expect, and we have learned not to trust people without a contract, not to believe they will follow through, not believe they will do their best job, not believe that they will make the hard right choice over the easy wrong one. Despite these bitter lessons, however, we did come away stronger as a couple and as a family. Our kids saw us in bad times (a few fights wholly related to the stress of the construction and lawsuit), but mostly they saw us come together and refuse to be beaten. "Can't Bust Us" became out motto. We were supported by family and friends, even when they were tired of hearing our complaints and rage. We were financially saved by family, and we were able to get the house in a state we can be comfortable in and even proud of. We also met some people who truly were honorable in their dealings, most notably, and strangely enough, our attorney. He never let us down; he led us through emotional and psychological territory; he gave us save advice. The battle isn't over, but the front is no longer on our doorstep.

My daughter was born! It was similar to Adrian's birth in that she was late (5 days this time), and I started going nuts with being uncomfortable and being scared about an induction. Labor took forever and really didn't progress much at all for more than 24 hours, until I went to the hospital and got an epidural. (I'm convinced that it helped me to relax enough to open up.) The birth itself was a lot more tranquil than Adrian's birth -- she wasn't in distress, so I got to give birth in a regular room, slowly, and I got to watch in the mirror! I got to hold her right away (after they checked her lungs) too. Having a newborn has been similar and different. Similar because we remember all the steps -- the fatigue, the worry about milk, the constant demands on your time. Different because I've done it before, so it's much easier (and some things are easier point blank, like my milk came in more quickly) but also because we now have a toddler. Case in point: Eugene was strongly against me leaving Adrian at the Spectrum Kids' Club to go to the gym -- he was scared of germs, etc. With Mila, it wasn't an issue. I left her for the first time today, at 4 months old. I am so grateful to have a healthy baby, and to have a girl. So far there hasn't been much difference between having a girl and a boy (other than the inevitable diapering challenges for boys), but in some ways, there's more fear with a girl -- will she grow up wanting to be a helpless princess? Will she have body image issues, bullying problems, a turbulent teenagerhood? I don't know why we don't worry about boys as much -- will they grow up to be ultraviolent? But somehow I didn't worry in the same way. At the same time, I'm looking forward to me being there to share in her experiences of the same things I experienced. She may be a tomboy, but God willing, she will still grow up to be a woman, just as I did, and I will get to be there for that. It won't always be easy, or pleasant, but we will have that in common. I love Adrian, but his experience growing up to be a man (God willing again) will be very different. At the same time I can't wait to see how Mila will be different from Adrian as a child. People tell me Adrian is all boy, and indeed, he is exuberant, physically explosive, fidgety, etc. But how different will Mila be? Now that I have two, I'll know more. So I'm very grateful, but I'm also looking forward to the good part. Adrian is a lot of work (more work than Mila in a lot of ways), but he's fun. Mila has her moments, but she's still growing into herself (and still doing some things that are hard, like breastfeeding every few hours and waking up at night). I am incredibly grateful for two children who appear healthy right now (and God willing, will continue to be so). I can't wait to see what the next year brings.

I mean the number one most significant experience in the last year and a half was getting hired at my current job almost immediately after graduation. It's been an incredible and challenging and rewarding and educational experience, and this is what it means to be a grown up and have a real job and have responsibilities and things that I'm passionate and invested in and get recognition for. I'm enjoying it.

Mimi passed away on August 24 and it's definitely the most significant event to happen this year or the past 25 years. On one hand I feel empty, angry and lonely but on the other hand I feel grateful to have had such a wonderful woman in my life, grateful for the impact she has had on my personality and outlook on life, grateful for the way she has kept the family together. I know we will keep her spirit alive. I wish Adam had had the opportunity to meet her, but I love that they had some semblance of a relationship from across the country. Adam was able to attend the ceremony at her beach house, feel her presence and hear the stories everyone shared

It's been a big year. I'm glad I will not have to live through it again. My wife was diagnosed with breast cancer and survived a mastectomy, chemo and radiotherapy. I got to watch, and sympathise, and die a little inside with her. Her post intervention drugs are oestrogen suppressors so she is effectively menopausal, and that has impacted on our sex life more than I expected, or want. We moved into our new house, which had been under construction for over two years. As a new build it still has a lot of little things to add, fix or create, like a garden. I largely fixed up our old house and arranged its sale without my wife's assistance, as she was, well, engaged in living through cancer. I sweated blood on the old place and am mildly annoyed that new owners have devastated its garden, cutting down mature trees etc. There's nothing I can do, but killing a tree is still a sin.

After 7 years together, my daughter and her boyfriend married! They had come through many difficulties together but I was anxious that once they finished graduate school, they might break up. I was relieved that they decided to take on a deeper commitment. The wedding took an unbelievable amount of organizing and we made many beautiful and unique things by hand (there went most of my very limited leisure time!); the ceremony itself was perfect, reflecting all the work that all of us put into it. My daughter went through most of the freaking out that brides-to-be tend to do, and on schedule. There were inter-family politices to take on and which we will continue to figure out. A very complex and rich experience!

I met Joe! It was so funny reading my responses from last year--the words of a fly single lady on the prowl and proud of it. I can't say that sometimes I don't miss being single but it's also amazing (still) how much gratification I get from my life now with Joe. I have someone to come home to who always wants to do what I want to do! (sort of). I don't know yet if he's "the one" although daily I think I get closer to being able to say at least maybe. Maybe in a year I'll know more. I try not to put too much pressure on it you know. It's so good right now, it doesn't seem worth it. It does seem sort of crazy though that he could be. He really could.

I got to be with my grandparents in Florida with all 6 grandchildren for the first time ever, the youngest grandkid is 5. I am very grateful because my brother and I live in New York and my grandfather is getting very sick and who knows when the next time we will all be together is, if it will happen

I decided to come out to my friends and family that I am bisexual. This affected me greatly; it allowed me to be open about who I actually am, and what I actually feel with the people who are most important to me. I am extremely grateful for how supportive, understanding, and helpful each person who has helped me through this journey has been.

My job changed drastically -our high performing team was broken apart. Now in new group, new role, lots of uncertainty. Left the best boss I've ever had with whom I've worked for over 8 years. I had something close to my dream job for much of the last 8 years... Because of the way it happened, there was not a clear ending, nor new beginning which has made the transition that much harder. It's been a really stressful 6 months. Not sure I will enjoy my new role. Not sure I am cut out to work in the new organization. We'll see how things develop.

A significant experience that happened this past year...well one was going on birthright with Brooklyn college kids... it feels like it was a while ago- but it was such a mix to be on the top of masada seeing the past beauty and understanding the sacrifice of the Jewish people...and then also be with such disconnected people. And to also be feeling so disconnected. I realize now that I was feeling the galus. Another thing was almost losing myself to Matt..or my imagination more like it. Another thing was making that book of all the soldiers in HASC with Adina. For Kinnos on Tishabav. Every single soldier had so many people that loved him. Rav Judah had to tell us to stop already with all the details, make it shorter...it was like we were crazy. We didn't eat, or sleep really. We worked until it was done hours and hours. That was dedication because it felt like we had a purpose.

I finally quit a job that was ruining my quality of life. I did it with no safety net. It has allowed me to focus on family and on writing poetry. So much less stress. Time to think about what I really want out of the rest of my life, and what I don't want.

My younger brother, Paul, died. It made me realize how fleeting time is. It made me sad. It made me aware that we don't control anything in our lives except our own conduct.

I went to BCI this past year. It greatly affected me by opening up my artistic soul and allowing me to create beautiful art. I was part of a beautiful, incredibly supportive community that allowed me to be exactly the person I wanted to be and be open to trying and struggling with new situations, new art, and new experiences. I met some of the most incredible people I ever have, some who I know will remain lifelong friends. It also helped give me the confidence and create a space in which I could tell my parents that I like guys. I needed the space of Avodat Halev, as well as incredibly supportive individuals, to help push me to the point to be able to do that. I am very grateful that I was able to be a participant at BCI and can't imagine my summer without this experience.

I switched schools and it made me stronger.

My experience with Matt McCracken this past year was eye-opening. I came out of it thinking that I was the messed up one. That there was something wrong with me for not being thrilled that this guy masturbated in front of me. And then I knew something had to change with the way I interacted with men. It sucked, but I am ultimately happy it happened, so that I could learn.

Over this past year, a lot has happened. I gradated from CMU, have been on the job search, met my boyfriend and lost my virginity to him. Graduation has been sad because I am no longer at school, but I am beginning to realize that it is ok and that I am on a journey to starting my life and living it how I want to. Finding my boyfriend has helped me grow into a more loving and confident person. With Ben, I am just so so much happier overall. It feels like my life has a purpose to it.

Three weeks traveling Europe by myself was an incredible experience. I did exactly what I wanted to do, fully experienced the sights/sounds/tastes, and was able to truly internalize and process my experiences. I am so grateful to have had that opportunity, and hope that I can draw upon those memories when I need to remember that there is ~life outside school/work~. Art, culture, music, gardens, history, beer, good food... It's out there and it makes the world beautiful :)

Exactly one year ago my best friend ended our relationship. She never said why. She just cut all contact. I was devastated. My divorce (after 20 years of marriage) was easier for me to handle, at least in that situation I knew the reasons and was able to move on. I stayed drunk for six months. I'm lucky I didn't lose my job as well. I'm still trying to figure out what happened. I'm still sad.

At the end of this year, at the beginning of September, I became very ill and it turned into a life or death situation. I went to the ER and was found to have colon cancer. I am relieved that I survived the surgery and the cancer is gone.

I had thought that I had forgiven my mother for a lot of what happened with my childhood and the group homes I spent it in. It wasn't until she was visiting this year and I remarked about something that happened in one of them and my mother had a reaction to it of, "If you'd have told me that happened, I would have stopped that" that then led to a conversation with my husband where he asked me why I had brought it up. He said that it seemed to him like I was trying to poke her with it, deliberately baiting her with "Here's something you didn't know." I truly thought I had walked away from feelings of vengeance or bitterness. That I had decided that my mom didn't have to know those things and she could believe what she needed to believe because it wasn't worth her finding out what really happened. But if that's the case... why do I keep letting pieces of it slip like that? It was eye opening. For someone that navel gazes as much as I do, I was pretty blind to this razor sharp part of my personality. Forgiveness is hard and not done overnight. It's a constant process that I've ignored a bit recently and I'm once again studying the question of: "Which is more important? That she know the truth and be devastated? Or be able to believe her lie and sleep at night?" I love my mom. I'll always answer that question the same way. But this year I learned there's a small, bitter part of me that wishes I would answer it a different way. That's unsettling on some level. The truth usually is.

I almost killed myself. Several times, with plans that had exacting details. When I broke, I reached out to friends and strangers for help and found the power to stay alive. I didn't really want to die, I don't think.

I completed a Mentor Pragram for trading financial instruments. I am increadibly inspired, I am confident about my own abilities to replicate success. It has motivated me to take control and be more self disciplined and directed with my financial future. I am grateful for have the opportunity to do this.

My brother, Steve, facilitated a conversation with me and my mom over coffee in Palm Spring - a tete-a-tete. We had not been talking comfortably with each other. I tried to get off the phone quickly after short check-ins and after just putting my kids on the phone. When we met, I told her how when she is mad at me, she is not nice. She is mean and pushes me away rather than hold me close and let me know she loves me. I am really glad I was able to tell her how she disappointed me. She had a hard time hearing it. I had a hard time hearing her words of disappointment. We are now more comfortable with each other. She just sent me a recipe for challah.

I moved countries, across the world. In a way it felt like I was coming home, but I completely underestimated how difficult it would be. It can be really lonely, as much as you feel like you are constantly surrounded by people, I have never felt so alone. Particularly around the High Holidays the feelings of loneliness are particularly strong. I think the experience although tough has made me stronger. I am becoming more resilient, and less sensitive to the way I am treated (although I still have a way to go). I am also becoming more independent, and I am grateful that even in the worst periods I have been able to find the inner strength to carry on, even if it times that felt impossible. The experience has made me cautiously optimistic for the future, although also highly aware that things can often in a way you completely unintended them to go.

lost my job failed in my business lost huge amount of $$ failed to get a job but learned about humility, control my ego/pride, and how to live with what I have. Learned a lot about life and the existence of God

i lived in atlanta for 5 months. i hated it, but after i came home, i was very inspired to reach out to friends and family and deepen my relationships with them. i am grateful for the atlanta experience because i was able to learn a lot about myself, such as my ability to be happy only conditionally. but, i also realized that regardless of my unhappiness, there was still an underlying feeling not letting me hate life.

My grandaughter Naomi was born on March 4th. Her life has greatly enriched my life. I am in love. I am very grateful.

I have had a rough year with regard to my son, Jacob. This spring he seemed very near to committing suicide. Hopefully, he has weathered this with some help. He seems better. But it has left me with constant worry for him and wondering if he will land back in that dark Place again.

Participated in first half of a training on working with trauma; training continues for another six months. I find the work to be healing in many ways, including that I am both deeply engaged/curious and skeptical/questioning at the same time. In the past I would have tried to be as fully aligned with the teacher as I could be, whereas now I can hold multiple perspectives. This is new and exciting.

Finding out we were pregnant in April has been one of the biggest most exciting changes in my entire life. We are so excited and anxious and still somewhat in shock, I think. We know our life is about to change but we're not even sure by how much. Very excited to go through this with Robert by my side!

This year I fell in love. I thought I'd felt romantic love in the past but that wasn't even close to this. I met Adam in mid January, after only three months in my new condo and only half a year after I pulled myself out of my horrible, dark, post-op funk. My life is different now in ever conceivable way. I found The One. I found my beshert, a concept I didn't even believe in before now. Finding Adam and knowing with such absolute certainty that this is it, forever, has changed me to my core. I'm no longer as cynical. A part of me I never knew existed, a part that used to carry tension, has relaxed. I look forward to the future. My life is more than a string of my loved ones and trips now, it's about The Future. I'm so far beyond grateful, beyond relieved. I'm just so damn happy I feel it to the depths of my being. Not only is my life better now, it's the best.

In the past year, I finished -- FINISHED -- my dissertation and was awarded my PhD. I am grateful, relieved, in awe and impressed by my own success. It was such a long journey (6.5 yrs) and the last 18 months of the process were so challenging. I feel like this was a true milestone, a truly significant moment in my life, not just academically/professionally, but personally. It felt like I'd been running so long, multiple marathons, that I couldn't believe I'd come to the finish line. And then to have my entire family, even my brother, and my boyfriend, my advisor, my colleagues... all there to cheer me on as I walked in my robes. I reflected on who I had been when I arrived at Harvard, and who I'd become, and I was filled with a sense of contentment and warm happiness. I am no longer ABD, or a PhD Candidate. I can proudly put Ph.D. at the end of my name and appreciate its significance and smile.

I learned that my wife has an incurable cancer, although she may have several good years remaining. I was and am devastated, and yet, we were able to leverage our pain to re-examine and to readjust our priorities, so that we pay more attention to what matters most in life: each other and our children. Also, this led me to make a dramatic change in my own lifestyle, to lose weight and become more fit. At first, this was only to be able to better take care of my family, but over time I started to do this more and more for myself as well.

At a time when I felt my health was once again on an upswing I was laid low with sciatica. It was the first time in my life that I have had a significant failure of my basic bodily health, and it leaves me apprehensive for the future of increased activity I have been counting on.

In the last year I went from being engaged to being divorced, somehow without the wedding. What a relief to save the embarrassment and money. What a sad and lonely time. What a joyful and bright future is possible. What a shock to the system, losing a family, a future, and a community of friends. But what an opportunity to work on myself, and focus on what I want out of the rest of my life. I am grateful, relieved, resentful, and renewed.

Becoming a competitive cyclist has become the 'experience' that defines me. Never expected something so adventurous to happen to me in my 40s. I am deep into the experience, which makes it difficult to reflect upon but I think about next season. What makes it possible for one person to become so great at something they're considered the best? I wonder if I'll possess the ability to work through the deep and great physical pain it takes to improve, if I'll have the mental focus to keep myself together, and if I have what it takes. Do I even know what it takes to know how to become one of these 'great' athletes?

Went to Chicago, I loved it.

This past year, I settled in Denver, bought a house with Gabriel, and completed the first year of a doctorate program. I stretched myself mentally in ways I didn't think I could. I also lost my adviser to a brief, but grueling battle to brain cancer. Since her death, I have been more inspired to continue the work that she dedicated her life to in educational equity, and I have learned to be grateful for every birthday. Every year is a gift and I am lucky to be 31. I am grateful for every birthday, and every day.

I was hired by two(!) theater companies to direct. It feel like validation: I am good at what I do, the work I do have monetary value, and two years of being a "professional intern" has paid off.

This past year was generally spent in physical therapy from the serious fracture in 2013. Worked hard to reflect on my life. Simply put, I was forced to stop and think about my life and for that I am grateful

I need to raise my rates. I'm getting paid by one client $5 more than what I got paid 9 years ago. I can see he is challenged in his business, but so am I. I'm fearful that if I let him go, I won't be able to replace the income, but on the other hand, I need the increased income. I keep waiting until I can do something brilliant so I can justify my worth. It isn't working. I'm grateful for the work, grateful for the income. Resentful toward myself that I can't get past my fears of the unknown future will bring when I let him go. Stuck in a rut.

I went to Spain with Travis and realized the kind of man I want to be with- one who shows up thinking positive thoughts and has openness to the world around him. Looks at beauty of the world and chooses to focus in that.

I FINALLY was Bat-Mitzvah (at age 75). In fact, 13 (significant number!) adult members of our congregation participated in a B'Nai Mitzvah. In spite of all the aggravation and decision-making issues, it turned out to be a wonderful, spiritual, uplifting, joyous experience. Many of us had to leave our "comfort zone" and overcome doubts and nerves. I am especially proud that I was chosen to chant the Maftir Torah portion. And I am so grateful that my daughter, niece, and great-niece traveled to Florida to share this once-in-a-lifetime event with me. Their love was overflowing. They all stayed at my home and we had the best-ever Girl's Pajama Party, which lasted 5 days!

I experienced many things last year that would qualify for this; the love of my life had brain surgery for the third time, I fell in the stairs and broke my foot, ... But I am going to choose the one that made me the happiest: we moved in together with the love of my life aka my boyfriend (the word boyfriend somehow seems a bit dismissive, but he is not my husband nor my fiancé, so I guess I will have to do with the high-schoolish word boyfriend). I am happy in our new home and being so close to him every day. And truly grateful that every night I get to go to sleep next to him and wake up next to him every morning.

I went to my 20-year high school reunion, only to find that nothing had changed. We all slipped back into the same cliques we'd formed a long time ago. But that was okay. It helped me realize that people naturally move in and out of your life, sometimes as major players and sometimes as scenery. Sometimes they start off one and become the other, but not always, and that's okay too. Not everyone needs to play a starring role. But I also learned that I have to be open to the possibility that some people I thought considered me scenery actually want to know me better. I'm glad I went. I'm relieved it's over. I might go back for my 30th. We'll see.

I became 13 and I'm gonna have my Bar mitzvah.

This past summer, I was nearly raped. I have only told a couple people and still think it affects me. Now I am definitely more careful with myself and I try to surround myself with better people.

My sister was diagnosed with cancer this summer and I went home to support my mother through the surgery and recovery. It was a very restorative summer with almost no "work" accomplished, lots of insight into my family and how it lives through me, and I came back financially broke and with insight into all the things about my life and career that I've tolerated. I have absolutely no desire or felt need to be who or what others want me to be anymore, not even out of politeness. And I'm feeling the sadness of all the years that I've been a version of myself that made others comfortable, but kept me very isolated. I'm desiring family and community now--people who share my way of life and with whom I enjoy spending my time when I'm not at work. I'm very tired.

I broke my wrist and I felt very inspired

My mom's 70th bday and getting to be there for that. I'm grateful to still have her. also Liz's dad passing away was hard because it brought up my own worst fears about losing my parents. I was grateful to be able to help out and amazed at how awesome Liz is. And Maury came into my life this year and I can't imagine my life without my sweet furry little friend.

My baby sister named Natalie was born and she is like adorable. She is a week old! She made me thank the things in life, and I am grateful. I am excited to live life with her...until I see this in 2015 I want to say that the world might end so if it does just know that we will all maybe die.

About a year ago I travelled to Kenya with Me to We on a voluntour to hep build a school so that kids like me could get a proper education. While there I got to meet some of the locals and learn all about the Masai culture. I am beyond grateful for this experience. It was life changing to the extreme and has inspired me to give back to those who need it most in my future endeavours.

An experience that I was grateful for was that I helped people and I felt happy about it because I don't want to be selfish. I feel like G-d will be very very proud of me and will give things back to me like good things and blessings for example. I sold candy to people instead of eating them and got 100 dollars. At the end instead of using the money to shop with I gave it to cancer. :)

I got really sick this past year, with both RA and sinusitis. I spent most of the year feeling pretty gross. I felt scared, resentful at times, relieved because it provided proof (to me) that my conditions were seriously disabling, and ultimately inspired. When I finally felt better (the Orencia took full effect and the last sinus infection was beaten down), I was inspired to start living my life the way I wanted it to be instead of walking on eggshells to try to preserve my energy and prevent pain. I joined the YMCA, I've gone for 11 days straight. I grocery shop. I make dinner every night. I don't nap. I'm on top of the bills, the taxes, and I'm rolling my stray 401ks to a single account. I built a Little Free Library. I'm living instead of existing.

I manage to get all the supplies I need to start my youtube channel. I also did not die, soooooo thats good.

I recently went to Israel and I saw all of my family. I didn't get affect but like I'm grateful for them because they are swag.

Broke up w/ my girlfriend of 4+ years. I'm relieved that I'm no longer in a holding pattern, though sad that it took me so long (as usual) to accept that it wasn't working the way I need.

I confirmed my Chrisianity and joined the women's ministry at a church. It has affected my mind, my body and my soul by filling me with the knowledge that I don't have to take this journey alone. God is with me always. It has affected my health by lowering my blood pressure. It has affected my mind by making me more focused. I am a kinder person and a better friend. Yes, I am inspired daily!

I walked to get the mail one morning to note a young neighbor with the hood up on his car, surrounded by young girls. When I walked back, I asked if he needed a jump on the battery. They did, but neither of us had cables. The girls needed a ride to school, a relatively far distance. I decided to contact AAA and call them from my card. The young man...dark-skinned...was silent until the truck came to help. Then, he expressed tremendous gratitude for my kindness to a stranger. I simply said. "We are here to take care of each other." then "You can make it up to me by "paying it forward," to someone else." The memory of that act sent me soaring. I think of it often, and feel inspired all over again. I want to do more of that for others.

I went back to my home town. It had been 7 years since my last visit, and over 30 years since I left it to live in another city in another country. I took my grown up kids and it was an amazing experience. It was the first time I was able to be there without the old ghosts rising up to vex me. And yet I was also able to let go of some old grief and heal some old hurts. I felt closer to my roots and closer than ever to my kids and to the few remaining members of my family of origin. I fell in love with my home city all over again and yet when it was time I was glad to return to the city that has been my home longer now than the one of my birth.

Moving to the UK. or my trip to New York. Knowing how much growth and freedom there is when you no longer are bound by complatency and my comfort zone.

I was removed from my job as a lead teacher and demoted to I'm not sure what, through the malice of my boss who is a rabbi. It has left me angry, resentful, profoundly saddened and deeply depressed.

My dad died. No I am not grateful. I am sad. Sadder than I have ever been in my life. I feel that he was taken too early. He had just retired. He barely had time to finish the entire book that he kept putting off until he "had more time". I am sad that the doctors tried and failed. I am mad at myself that I was so hopeful. So hopeful. Blindly hopeful.

Trekking in Nepal for 15 days. Though it was trying in many aspects at best, I am grateful for the experience as it helped me to clarify my likes and dislikes, the maybe oks and the absolutely nos. It is necessary to carve out a space of quiet to properly reflect, which is easiest done while out in the wilderness, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Not that it is impossible in the city, but its significantly easier to hear one's own voice. Reminder to self one year down the road: Make quiet space.

Grateful, Inspired, Awed, A Better Person. Abundant. I married a man in the face of naysayers, and he is the best partner for me. And our families see it, and support us. Because we have faith in each other, and we have to fight to be together through his immigration process. And because it’s hard, and the naysayers said it was a mistake. But they don’t see. It’s not their fault. They can’t know what they don’t see.

Playing music for people! It's been both satisfying and boring. I go through flashes of feeling extremely gratified and significant like a real artist and then feeling like a big dork playing erudite ukulele nonsense to an unresponsive crowd for free.

First hospitalization for several days since the birth of my last child. Needed a PIC line for a series of antibiotic infusions. I enjoyed the rest over the four days that I spent there. Now that it is over, I am relieved that I probably won't have to do that again. I am also grateful to the nurses who work so hard to care for the patients.

Jo and I moved to Panorama. I am so grateful for all that we have achieved out here and all the help that we had which allowed us to get this far. Its been a year though and am getting anxious I want to move on a a better career now that we are more settled and ready for new goals and adventures.

I hate to admit it but I "fell in love" with this most amazing person. It started out as an innocent "love team", that was reinforced by a weekend trip out-of-town. Occasional casual but lengthy conversations [face to face and on the phone, as well as through text messaging and online messaging] led me to discover how much I shared in common with her. I wanted her and it turns out she also liked me. And now, we're officially in a relationship -- albeit we're keeping it quiet. It's my second one, after several years. Did I also state that she's almost half my age?

I started college. It's good because I'm learning how to interact with people and manage time and schedules. At the same time, it's miserable because I miss my boyfriend so much. I hardly get to see him and I can't afford to make trips to see him. All I want is to be with him and sometimes I feel like I screwed up by not putting off college for another semester. Not regretful, but not all happy either. Sigh. But, now I have a lot more faith in myself too.

I graduated from university and then my best friend moved across the globe in a three week period. To give that month a name, "Significant Experience" would be perfect. It was a shocking and growing, exciting and stressful experience. I wasn't expecting to actually accomplish such a monumental event, even though I felt like I couldn't go one more semester at school. I'm happy she went to go accomplish her own goals but a part of me was really sad. I always imagined we would go together and then she went and got a job I perceived as perfect for myself. She said she'd look for jobs for me down there or help me get there. That isn't working out. I'm really proud of her. Selfishly though, I'm pretty jealous. She's so brave. I feel too attached to Houston to leave right now. My boyfriend and I have both just graduated and he just took a job in Houston so we can finally live in the same city after dating for two years. I feel like the world is calling but I'm not ready yet to dive into the deep end. Graduating was a big enough step for right now. I'm relieved I'm four months into "real life" and I have a big girlish job. I don't think it's what I want. I know I shouldn't want what other people have but I have at least one thing I want; a diploma, some qualification to enable me to do more. I'm grateful, relieved, not resentful but definitely a little jealous and definitely a lot inspired. If my friend who has a year advantage on me can move across the globe then I can too, on my own time frame that is. I can do anything I set my mind to is the inspiring part. I'm lucky to have the friends I do who inspire greatness even if it's through jealousy.

Going to my first music festival. Wowwwww.... I will (hopefully) never, ever forget that. From the group, to navigating the obstacles, hearing the music, the TRIP, and the MOLLY, AND MOLLY PLUS BASSNECTAR!!!!!! oh My gOd! I die just thinking about it all. WHAT A DAY! And we did it so well It was absolutely marvelous from start to finish (and not even in a "perfect" way but everything worked itself out). It left me feeling inspired about how I connect with people and receive/am open to energy (e.g. that sonic rocketship thing, the perfect metaphor). sike no the actual perfect metaphor was the little kid who was shooting me in the face with the watergun even after I told him stop, that is so life) and just.. awakened to deeper levels of myself and what I am capable of--meaning feelings and sharing and love and openness. It was hoops and trees and friends. I called Goran. I cried. I took off all my clothes and danced my ass off to Gramatik. I just remember first getting to SCAMP and seeing people at the water station and kind of laughing at how gross everyone was and by the end of the day I was ONE OF THEM. I was in it. It was amazing. It was a literal adventure and I don't know if I ever saw myself as a music festival person/hippie-ish person but that was probably the most fun thing I did last year. Thank god for SCAMP. I love drugs and music. Damn, writing this just made me wanna buy tickets to another festival. (note-- when I reread this question for editing, it REALLY made me wanna go to a music festival).

My writing partner and I tried to negotiate an option on a feature. We worked with the producer in good faith, got ready to walk away, got it together to have a read-through, and finally left him behind. It consumed a lot of energy that I wish had gone to writing.

Half a year spent in fear. Four months spent in travelling around and being happy. A very thick year, all in all.

Stopped saying Kadish for my dad. I had been expecting that going to Shul daily and saying Kadish for eleven months would be a spiritually uplifting thing. And would be a way to stay connected to my dad. What I found was that at the end of that period I felt no closer to my father and in addition had lost my previous relationship with Gd. I often felt like I was just barely hanging on by my fingernails. It has been a year of struggling with Gd. Against Gd. Searching for Gd. Ignoring Gd. Being mad at Gd. And feeling grateful to Gd.

I volunteered at Camp No Limits. Children with limb loss and limb difference to get to hang out with others like them and so do their families. It was inspiring to see how much change can happen in 5 days and in only 15 minutes. It is a rare environment where every single person wants every other person to succeed in whatever challenge they want to face. And everyone is encouraging and supportive to everyone else.

I found out that my wife is pregnant with our third child. I'm anxious. I'm excited. I'm stuck. I don't know what to do at times. I'm going to take this one day at a time and do my best to be the type of person that has earned the right to raise three children.

I lost 20+ pounds and over 8 inches off my waistline. I've been working with a trainer and I feel accomplished and proud. It has inspired me to keep going...and I learned to run for a sustained amount of time. This was huge and I ran 5 5K's this year which is incredible and I have sights set on more. I am grateful and proud.

We took our daughter off to college, turning back to each other as a couple, and two weeks later listened to her doubts and anguish and tried to help her help herself through it. Loss, loss, loss. And mixed in are dismay, tenderness, worry, a bit of anger and knowing that this uncertainty living in each of us is right.

The definitive event of 2014 was my divorce. Yes, I'm grateful relieved resentful inspired. I hurt grieve grow. I am disappointed deeply. I am rejuvenated. I am scared excited freed, broken jaded failed. It is a beautiful valley. My path is sometimes unclear. But I am free to follow it.

My husband was diagnosed with a cyst on his brain. I'm worried to a degree but know that everything is in Hashem's hands. I'm grateful and relieved to confirm that the moodiness he has been experiencing the last few months is not permanent or intentional. This too is for the best.

The realization that my single major purpose is to carry out the 'Great Commission' It unsettled me because my past focus had been on a range of other matters, not that these were unimportant, but were detractors from my main purpose. Yes I am grateful for this realization, am inspired and challenged about how this will translate into action going forward. The challenge for me in the first instance to reduce the ego and be obedient to the calling

I traveled to France and Austria by myself. I've never been to EU before and traveling by myself is terrifying. I have a unknown fear of doing things by myself sometimes... the comfort of another person helps to relieve the anxiety I feel so this experience was extremely out of my comfort zone and exciting. I am so very happy I did this. By pushing myself out of my comfort "buddy" system, I truly gained a confidence in myself and got to see EU for very little money (company trip). This trip also opened my eyes to traveling more... there is so much out there, not only in EU but also in the US and am going to push myself to take a trip to brand new location each year. My boyfriend and I are going to Vegas (I've never been) and also to Mt. Zion National Park soon and I am extremely excited for this. I hope to continue this trend and to continue to exploring all the world has to offer :)

Getting Ringo, a born on purpose puppy, while we thought Sam was sick in a way that might mean we would lose him. It was incredibly stressful and hard and not what I had ever planned in terms of getting a new dog and I was still not done grieving the loss of Dexter, or even Obi for that matter, and we weren't sure we ever wanted another dog and we couldn't really let Sam and Ringo play at first and Ringo was the most difficult puppy we'd ever had, needed the most attention, but I am stronger because of it. I am grateful Sam is better and Ringo has grown up a little, but I confess I still want things to be easier, resent a little how hard it's been. I'm worn out.

Finding Russ and getting engaged! I am every positive emotion there is...I never want to feel depressed or down again- life is too short and now I finally have what I wanted and what I have been waiting for so there is no reason to be down (except for death)

I told him I love him and risked our friendship to ask for more. He said no to more and further cemented a beautiful friendship. I was relieved almost immediately, as I'd been stuck in hope and possibility and was unavailable to anyone else. All I want of him is to be connected and for that to grow. We had that, have that, it's grown, and is growing.

Sold out home. I was angry in the negotiation of the sale becasuse we were getting jockeyed around. The day it closed I felt an enormous rush of relief and freedom - a great weight was lifted!

I had tremendous healing with my daughter this past year, and I am so grateful for this.

I formed a relationship with someone who's trying to recover from... does it matter? We 'work' together, and with others. I've been enlightened and humbled by our mutual efforts. The process has relieved both of us from (some of) our resentments and is continuing inspiration. Yes 10Q, I'm quite grateful for this experience - I recover as well.

I moved to Boston for a job. I miss my friends and family and cat and stuff, but I'm glad to have some money. Money is cool. Stop asking me about my feelings.

I gave birth to my second daughter in May. It's been harder and in some ways easier than I had imagined. I was worried that I couldn't possibly love her as much as I loved my oldest daughter, but that just wasn't the case. I loved her from the moment I held her. I'm still struggling with juggling their daily needs; they are at such different phases in their lives. I am grateful for the life the four of us have together and even when days are hard I try to remind myself that so many people have it more difficult than us.

My daughter spent the year studying in Israel. I was able to travel to see her twice...once by myself, once with my husband. It was the first time for him. He loved the country but was ambivalent about the people. Still it was an awesome trip, especially since she came home with us. I am forever thankful that she was not in Israel during the Gaza war. I am grateful that we were able to do this trip as a family.

Yes there was. That moment of clarity when I authentically shared what it is that I really want for my life with a friend. The clarity that came with that confession/epiphany was like a freedom I've never experienced. I am inspired. Relieved. Grateful and even a little bit resentful. Like I've wasted so much of my life reaching for things that never mattered. Filling time with things that were simply that...filling time.

Well, there have been several experiences of note. In each case it was about prosperity and its flow. As a senior citizen, I live on a fixed income...in theory. Several times in the past year it has been very close to payday when a need for extra cash arose. Instead of panicing or getting stressed, trying to figure out how to find extra money, I relaxed, reminding myself Who is really in charge, the Source of all my good. And, promptly, and from unexpected places, my needs were met. I practice gratitude every day. A spiritual teacher recently shared an affirmation that I use daily, "I have everything I need to be happy." And it's true. It actually takes very little to be happy and yet, it is huge. I have a sustaining spiritual practice. My health is good, I have friends, a loving family, freedom, a home of my own, food, clothing, a garden, arts and creative outlets, books and my loving animal friends. What else could I possibly need?

What stands out is the experience of asking for a new sponsor. I can't remember when it happened - maybe March? I had been feeling pretty depressed from the winter, but was also experiencing a kind of hangover after making work my higher power after the end of 2013. I had been working with this woman who I was realizing I didn't even really like - she talked a lot about spirituality but I didn't feel it from her at all. But I couldn't even admit this to myself - I blamed myself, thought it was my fault that I wasn't getting more out of the relationship. A friend finally reflected this to me - said pretty bluntly that I hadn't been happy with this sponsor for a long time, and asked me why I would bother continuing the relationship. I did finally ask for a new sponsor, and it's been life changing. I feel relieved and empowered. What the whole experience taught me is that I WANT more god in my life. Ultimately, it isn't about the sponsors themselves, but whether their guidance helps me strengthen my relationship to god. The experience also taught me the value of letting go of relationships that aren't helpful. Why was I continuing to work with someone that I didn't like? Life is too short.

My father was diagnosed with metastatic throat cancer. He abused drugs throughout my childhood and has never been attune to my needs or feelings, but he is still my father and I do love him. Years ago, I made my peace with him, and he apologized for the ways in which he had hurt me. Because, he has alienated most of the people who have been a part of his life--my mother, my sister--I took on the role of caregiver. Despite our reconciliation, I discovered that in many ways, he is still the same person he was and I have struggled to not fall into old patterns. After six months of living together, he is moving out and I will continue to try to support him with some distance between us. I suppose I feel scared of what's to come, and disappointed by what transpired between us. Still, I am proud of what I was able to do and have no regrets.

I had my first child. It totally changed the way I view the healthcare industry for one. I began questioning motivations behind advice, and I learned so much about my body, and the birthing experience. I find that I am mostly grateful. Grateful for both of us to be alive and healthy (which was very possible to not have happened since I had un-diagnosed complete placenta previa). Sure I am tired and worn out most of the day now, because I do not have an easy baby, and my life is extremely different in its routines, but I am glad that it happened.

My cousin died of a brain tumor last December. Every time I think about my throat tightens up and I feel sad. I can't believe he's gone. I think it's especially hard since I so rarely saw him-- understanding the difference between gone for now and gone forever. It makes me feel lucky that I am alive and healthy.

Our family went back to France on a visit for a family wedding after having immigrated to Canada 7 years ago. We hadn't been back in 5 years and I was so joyful to be immersed in the incredible Jewish life that is there. At the same time I am distressed about the hatred towards Jews displayed by the Moslem extremists and the anti-Israel and anti-Semitic riots that took place over the summer. There are many French politicians and citizens who are fighting this tooth and nail and I get frustrated by calls from American Jews to boycott France when the French really need help and support fighting this problem.

I traveled across the country. It was moving and grounding. Moving in places -- seeing the immense and ever shifting beauty (and ugly) of this country -- and grounding in amazing friends who so endlessly enrich my life and make me feel and think. This felt like a foundational trip in establishing the who am I/what am I reaching towards in the later half of my 20s. It was fun and exciting and expanding.

I got my real estate license and started a tutoring company. And found improv to be part of keeping my heart happy. It's been high highs and low lows, but i know I'm doing what I need to for myself and it makes me so proud of who I am and what I can do.

My grandfather's death was a new experience for me. He was the first family member of mine to pass away. His passing was not unexpected -- he had seen a steady decline over several years. I feel some guilt associated with his passing. There have been times that I have hoped for his passing, just to make everything easier -- in some ways, I have resented him. I almost did not make it home for his funeral, because my priorities were with school. At the end of the day, I'm thankful to have learned from the experience, because it has reinforced for me that family is the top priority.

This year, I helped my best friend through the loss of her Dad. Because I had already been through it, I did all the things for her family that I felt would've helped me. I asked lots of questions, because I knew people were afraid to ask me. I've contacted them on each of the milestone days to let them know I'm thinking of them and sending positive energy their way. Talking to them has been therapeutic for me and helping them has transformed my own heartache and grief into something positive.

For 2014, there can be only one answer to this question. This year I was diagnosed with MS. It has affected me in ways both profound and mundane and I find I am still grappling with it (and will be for the rest of my life). MS is a disease that sort of requires that you to take one day at a time. I've never lived that way, I've always been one to fret about the future so this really is causing me to remake my entire world view. One day, I'm absolutely fine, the next day just walking home from the metro is so difficult I'm in tears by the time I get home. There's no planning for a day like that. So, I have been learning to just accept that state of affairs. I still make plans, but I find I give a lot of caveats. I'm also struggling with my relationship with my family, particularly my mother. I find she is making my diagnosis about her in many ways and so it has put a strain on our relationship. I think at heart her intentions are good but we are really struggling with communicating with each other. Another tough thing is that I really have never exercised. It's always been one of those things I meant to get around to and would make lots of excuses to put it off. Now, it's so important that I do have an exercise regime as it could mean the difference in my basic mobility as the disease progresses. Even knowing that if I don't take action I could end up in a wheelchair hasn't yet managed to spur me to begin. I feel very blocked about it and unsure how to move forward. The other aspect I am contending with is how this disease will affect my career. It is possible that I am looking at a shortened amount of time that I will be able to work. On the one hand, I feel like I have to stay in my current job which is secure and has excellent benefits including a pension that I will absolutely need and long-term disability insurance that I might need. Financially, it's in my best interests to stay put. But I also feel like I'm not doing the work I was put on this earth to do. That I'm capable of so much more and I'm letting myself get away with not working to my full potential. I feel like I've been sleepwalking through my life for the past few years and that it is quite possible that I'll just keep doing that for the rest of my life. Basic survival was all I could manage the past couple of years (not because of the MS but other financial problems) and I can envision just managing that and only that for the rest of my days, but it also fills me with despair.

In April or so, I was awarded a research fellowship for 2014-2015. It gives me $30,000 for the current academic year. I am grateful. I am relieved. I have greater self-confidence because of it, and I am more relaxed because of it. I generally take it for granted now, but when I imagine what my job this year would be like without it, I am very thankful.

Oh...i got married! haha. It hasn't really affected me, aside from the formality. I guess it's enabling me to think more about future planning and stuffs...like buying a house, making babies, etc. I'm relived that the planning is all over, and now the real stuff (hopefully) begins.

So much, baby is getting bigger and walking and even talking a little. We have had to take custody of our niece and somehow this has brought us all closer together. I am grateful that it has brought us together. I am grateful that as a family we are closer. I am grateful with how much I love my wife, how amazing she is and how much she does. I am resentful that I think she might have cheated on me. At the very least we have so little sex that I think that must be what is happening and see a story in the shadows of her actions. I am resentful of myself that I focus on the negative and become unfocused on the good. I am thankful that I am the interim-Director of my dream job.

This question challenged me immediately because I am hard pressed to think of a significant event. The year has been filled with many life events that I think I have finally learned to stop at, not merely pause, and take in what I think I need for myself.

Grad school has been a continuous and significant experience. It has shown me how much purpose I have in this world, how many different lives I've touched by teaching, and really just what I can do in the world and for the world.

So much has happened to me this past year, it's hard to pin down just one. I moved to Vermont 13 months ago. It completely changed my life. I think one significant experience was running the Burlington Pride Parade; being in charge of something like that was an amazing feeling.

In December 2013, I met my nephew in Israel for the first time (I live in the US). It was an amazing experience filled with so many different emotions that I do not even know where to begin. When I was much younger (and very immature), I had secretly wished that my brother would not have a child because my brother and I were very close and I did not someone else to take that attention away from me. Then to my horror, his wife miscarried...several times. It took them years to finally have a child, and I couldn't help but feel responsible. I finally met my nephew when he was 5 months old, and I was overwhelmed with the feeling of wanting to shower him with all the love I could give. How could I have ever wished that this child would not have been born, simply for my own selfish desires? I have never felt such an overwhelming feeling of love as when I met my nephew. There is a saying that states that to be loved is to give love, and this statement is completely true. Loving my nephew has made me feel more loved than ever before. I am resentful to have been so selfish in my younger years but am grateful to have become selfless instead. I am so thankful to know what true love feels like.

I was off work with stress for three months from June to September, which meant I went through various emotions including sadness, anger, resentfulness, numbness, worry, anxiety. It also gave me chance to reflect on what had led my being off sick, and what I can do to avoid similar things in the future.

Going to Israel with my family this summer was significant in so many ways. Seeing Israel through the kids' eyes was a wonderful experience, as was experiencing it alongside my spouse. Leaving the country while it was under fire to return home was a bit of a relief (first time I've ever felt that way leaving Israel), but was also incredibly difficult. I can't wait to return. Definitely inspiring.

Of course -- of course, my own wedding day. I'd been having vaguely wistful thoughts of it since girlhood, and legitimately planning it for two years or more. And the day arrived! I was most surprised at how tremendously moved I felt by the love of everyone who came to share in the day with us. I felt buoyed, lifted up, afloat. I felt a sense of regret for every moment when I've been curt with one of those people who smiled at me while I walked down the aisle. For every time I've chosen to be less than fully giving with the people who lifted up our chairs during the hora, who spun around us in dizzying chains, ecstatic orbit. The day made me want to be kinder. To love more fully. To give generously of my heart, my time, and my wallet. To more fully pay attention to the wonderful people in my life. To truly see them, to truly hear them, and to let my heart shine out toward theirs.

I had a Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant on July 3rd 2014. It made me miss out on things like school and I cant goto public places until next year. I'm grateful though, because next year I will be completely well and will no longer need to occasionally visit a hospital.

I welcomed my first child, a daughter, on May 30th. The experience has been incredibly overwhelming. I love her more than I ever thought I could love anyone or anything. But it's also been incredibly stressful. Being a parent is, by far and away, the hardest thing I've ever done. That being said, I don't regret my decision to have a child, not for one second.

My uncle became very sick and needed someone to come into his home to help. I felt i needed to help him. I was able to help for a short time, hopefully giving him and his wife some relief and comfort. Although unfortunately it didnt work out as they needed much more time than i could work around my kids etc., i am greatful for the time i was able to spend with my uncle and i hope he gained something from the time spent with me as well.

A few people who I considered to be my closest friends decided to ignore me after school ended. Instead of confronting them about it, I decided to let those friendships go. I honestly do feel relieved because it leaves the door wide open for me to make more genuine friends in college.

I got accepted into midwifery school and moved to Portland to pursue my dreams. I have felt every emotion from elated to grief. I am so overjoyed to have been given this chance to follow my dreams, but I grieve my "former life" the one where I lived in the house I own in the city I grew up in, surrounded by the people I love most. I am inspired by the crazy awesome people in my program and the patients I've gotten to meet so far. I feel such pressure to succeed that it can almost be crushing. I have these fleeting moments of knowing followed by many OMG what the heck moments!

I reconnected with some old friends. Hadn't seen them in years. It was as if we hadn't been apart at all.

Graduating university. I am grateful, relieved, and happy, but also stressed out about student loans and the responsibility of being an "adult" according to societal standards.

My husband developed a serious medical condition which required surgery. The experience made me realise I had lost focus on our relationship. It also showed the failings of the UK public health system.

I got a promotion at work. Doesn't really sound that significant but it was the last thing I saw coming. I wanted to leave work and was looking at other things (I had no idea what at the time) and felt a little lost and unsure of what I wanted to do. All i knew was that I needed to change things up a little, I was incredibly unhappy at work. Then I went on holiday and while I was away 3 people handed in their notice, including my venue manager. So when I returned things were a lot different, and then a few days later the assistant manager handed in her notice too. I went up for a meeting with my area manager unsure of what to say to her as I had previously wanted to leave too. That day I accepted to become the new assistant manager, acting as venue manager until they find someone else after Christmas or I could be promoted again. I was so relieved that I had a set plan for another year and that people (especially my family) were proud of me, as before the question was always 'when are you going to get a real job?' I was also incredibly surprised at how quickly something so unexpected could happen, I never thought that I would have this opportunity because I just thought no one would ever leave!

This summer I went to summer camp. The whole 7 weeks were a great experience and it relieved all my stress that I had all last year during the school year.

A significant experience is doing poorly on my math tests, it taught me to work harder and not be so stressed out about school. I am somewhat grateful about it, although I am not relieved or resentful I am inspired to do better.

I went to camp for 2 months at camp tanuga. I've been going for 8 years as this was my last year. I learned more about myself and others than I ever have before. For instance, I like to work more independently than in a group, and it takes total cooperation from everyone in a group to succeed (apache).

I had the opportunity to go on a summer teen trip to Alaska. It has been one of the greatest experience of my life. I find myself a better leader, more confident, more efficient, and all together a greater person.

Got my job at JCMH. The training helped me move past the "I'm reliant on others to take care of me" into the "I'm in charge of this situation and I am NOT broken." I am so grateful that I could spit. The relief I feel and the positive changes that I have in my life are indescribable. I have been inspired to help others and it gives me the strength to get up every day.

Eye surgery and treatments. It freed me from my blindness. I am so grateful for the gift of my sight. And, I can now see there is still so MUCH to be done.. and that I CAN do it!

In the past year, I graduated from business school with my MBA, and started a new job in management consulting. My husband and I also bought a house last spring -- our first home. It's hard to decide which of these two events was more significant... Buying the house has made me very grateful, and I love to be at home and think "Wow, this is ours. This is a place where we live together." However, it is also stress-inducing, because our house was built in 1950 and so occasionally needs work, TLC, or touch-ups. Overall, I am pretty amazed that, by some twist of fate, I was born in a forward-thinking country, that I had the good luck to grow up where I did, receive the education that I did, and pursue the opportunities that I have. I am overpowered with gratitude and in some ways, it seems so unfair that *I* have had this good fortune, and others haven't. Don't get me wrong - my life has had its fair share of strife and loss - but these two experiences have made me really happy for all that has come thus far.

The most significant experience that has happened to me this year is learning more about my wife and how she thinks. We have started going to marriage counseling again and it has helped so much. We are finally learning to understand what the other person is meaning and wanting and thinking and not just reacting to what we think we are hearing. Our wants are very similar in many ways but in others they are different. For example, when a conversation flares up and threatened to become an argument, my reaction is to try and fix it real quick (because after all it is based on a misunderstanding.... and if I can just get her to understand.....) but she needs to take a time out and be alone with her thoughts and emotions. I never got this before. I would be so insecure if we didn't solve things right away. Now I know to chill out and take a step back and give her the space and time she needs to process things. Then we come together later and work it out. This realization has had a major impact on our life in a very positive way.

The company that I work for (or worked for) is in the process of closing down. The moment when the news broke out, it was scary. The next day it was inspiring. The next week I was relieved. Many opportunities open up, and at the end of the day, I was better than a week before.

Breast cancer. Wondering how in heck I was one of the few men to get that. Taking Tamoxifen which has side effects. Wondering if it will work. Resigned, more empathy for women that get this. Put in perspective, a bump in the road. Get on with life make it good and fun.

Three experiences, not unrelated. First, I had my worst, arthritic knee replaced. I am still in rehab, so I walk six days a week, go to the pool two days a week for pool therapy, and do in-home physical therapy the other days. It is working well. Another is that I started volunteering at the local state mental hospital, serving as a chaplain. This is one of the best things I have ever done. Finally, I continue to make progress toward ordination.

This year, I experienced what it means to be an activist via Twitter. I am tired, but I am inspired to keep speaking truth. There are so few who are actually speaking out that it seems I must continue.

I suffered a stress fracture in my leg from running too much. It's taken a very long time to heal--over 5 months now and still not better. It's stopped me from running which is one of my favorite activities and stress relievers. I'm also worried I will need to have surgery... it has not been easy.

While it might not be considered an experience I really got into Sherlock Holmes. However it did have a huge impact on my life. I feel like I've finally found myself, who I am and what I want out of life. Shockingly without Sherlock Holmes I don't think this would have happened. I've become all around happier with who I am.

Two big things: 1) Our little man was born! Sohan has been an absolute joy in our lives, and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't feel totally and utterly grateful for his health and happiness. His smile melts my heart :) 2) I started a new job within SJUSD at Burnett Middle School. I love my work, but damn it's hard...

A significant experience was doing the Maccabia games. I did not expect so many jewish teens to be all around the world.

I finally went to a psychologist. It was a very intense experience, that forced me to analyze myself and think about things that I preferred not to think about.

I went to Hawaii with my husband for our honeymoon. It was a brand new, amazing experience. I was on this beautiful, wonderful vacation... I got to actually LEAVE reality for 2 weeks. And I did this with my best friend and love of my life! I felt comfortable and relaxed because he was there with me. I didn't have to worry about a lot of the things I would've worried about when I was on my own. Getting to see him relaxed and truly having a good time was such a treat. I feel like he doesn't often do things that he wants to do so this was a real treat for both of us. The happiest 2 weeks of my life.

My granddaughter was born. I didn't expect to be so moved by her birth. My son and daughter-in-law had already been blessed by one child (a perfect boy), and money was very tight. I worried about how they would get by financially. I was also fixated on the state of the world, especially after the Sandy Hook massacre. I wondered how anyone in their right mind could bring an innocent child into such a screwed-up world. But, then I met her. I realized that she carried in her tiny little female body all the hope of the world. I felt awe-struck by her potential, the potential for good. She smiled at me and I changed. While concern for the future of this little family still occupies my thoughts, I am more often grateful and optimistic these days when I think of them. I'm especially grateful for my daughter-in-law, who had the vision to know the power of children and family and the courage to trust in a positive outcome. I'm so very proud of my son, who has been a pillar of strength for his family, despite being nearly a decade younger than his wife. The deep love and devotion that resides in him for his family is in part because of the unbound love I gave to him. And so it goes...

This year we found out that we will welcome a child into the world in January. WOW it changed everything. I am both nervous and inspired all at once. My successes and failures in life no longer just affect me and my wife, but now our child also. Big pressure, but big rewards as well in the future.

After a long period of procrastination, my husband of many years filed for divorce. After a long, uneventful period of anticipation, our divorce came through. I thought I would feel relief, be overwhelmed by a sense of opportunity, want to celebrate. Instead just a low-grade sadness and the need to reflect on what it all meant and where it brought me. Because it brought me here, it's ok.

My mother died. And I'm sorry to say it didn't have much of an effect on my life. She got herself into serious trouble when I was around 20. Fraud, embezzlement, some...rather inappropriate relationships. Attempted suicide. She stole from family, friends, her church, and her employer, and as a result wound up alone for quite a while. She eventually got herself together, married a man she truly loved, and lived a decent life after that. I adored the woman I thought she was when I was a child. I was fond of the woman she eventually became. I detested the woman in the middle. I said goodbye to the first long ago. I'm sorry the second is gone, but that doesn't affect me much. The lattermost...sigh.

My dad's mother has had to be put into assisted living, for her own protection. It's made the whole family focus on our own end-of-life wishes and it's made me second-guess my decision not to have children. When I'm in Grandma's place, who will help me?

Making it through my first year of teaching. I feel so so grateful to have the opportunity to teach in this school. It's such a challenging job and I'm never sure if what I'm doing is correct. This year I did a pretty terrible job of managing how to be "there" for the kids and not be their friend. I'm still having a hard time with that. Some classes last year literally didn't learn a single bit of Theatre. That makes me so ashamed. But every day I try harder and get more organized. Someday it'll be old habit but for now it's pretty scary.

Probably the most significant experience this year was Licia's and my epic roadtrip with the kids. I was prepared to hate it; it had all the ingredients necessary for total and utter disaster, but it wound up being one of the most amazing experiences of my life. We got to see a huge chunk of the country, experience life on the road, and most importantly, get to know each other in new and different ways. I came away from the trip feeling more sure of myself, closer to all three kids, and more in love with Licia than I even thought possible. It drove home the idea that she and I can conquer absolutely anything together; we are an incredible team.

Moved out of my parents' apt and got a job. Both pretty significant experiences. Also started therapy, which I should've done a long time ago. I'm relieved that I'm out of their apartment, though it sucks to see all my money go down the rent drain. Also relieved and grateful that I have a job, even though it's the cause of so much anxiety. It's bringing to light a lot of the underlying issues I need to work to, and it's hard. Every day is a battle. But I'm motivated by the people and the work, and I want to find a way to be successful. I WILL find a way to be successful.

One of my most significant experiences of the past year has been commiting to a relationship with Hannah. Both the process of getting to this point, and the beginning of really diving in have made me more true to myself and happy (as well as extremely sexually satisfied). I am grateful that she was so adamant in pursuing me. When we first met I was in an exploratory phase, trying to figure out and reestablish what I wanted to get out of my relationships with other people. I was also playing around with many different ideas of what a relationship could be. While fun and stimulating it was ultimately unfulfilling. The more time we spent together the more enamored I became. I was drawn to her unwavering confidence, empathy, and passion. But even as I began to fall for her, I was still unsure in what I wanted. Not whether I wanted her, but whether I wanted to share my life with someone else. I was stuck in the idea that now was a time to be selfish, to focus exclusively on me. But Hannah wasn't afraid to ask for what she wanted, and told me that she wanted to be with me. This direct ask made me step back and really consider things. Here was someone so bold as to make themselves completely vulnerable with me. It was so honest and beautiful, and I was so strongly drawn to it. Since then we decided to start dating, and I'm so happy that we did. I'm learning so much from her, about knowing yourself, accepting yourself, and not being afraid to show vulnerability, because ultimately everything will be alright. Show the world open arms and someone will hug you back.

I started going to a counselor in February. She really changed my life--she taught me to be aware of my thoughts, how to change them, and, most importantly, I think, she taught me that I am valuable. She is like a friend in a way. Going to her was the best thing I've done this year, I think, because, even though its still hard, I now have the steps to find direction in my life.

A big experience that happened this year was dad died on June 13th. I was in ireland with the family when dad died & it put a damper on the trip. I was with dad so much the week before dad died & we had good times. He was so gratefull for all i did for him. So nice to have those memories. What I realized was after that, dad was the person who worried about me. He was my person that cared about me the most. Who knows how life will be now that i don't have parents alive. grateful no, relieved, that dad died quickly & peacefully; resentful, No; Inspired, i will see. probably still surprised & sad.

I moved back home after nearly a decade away. I realised that I took the freedom to be who I really am for granted. I grossly overestimated my liberal mother's liberal values. I realised I could not continue to hide. I came out to my mother and sister. I told them I was dating a girl. It did not go well. I learned my mother's (and family's) love is conditional. I'm grateful that I am an adult and money to choose the best options. It further reinforces my fears and anxieties about having children of my own. I never believed the bullshit people spout about how 'your love for a child is unconditional and unlike any other love you'll ever experience'. Now I have proof that this particular motherhood myth is false.

1. Started working again after about four years of focusing on my babies. I have regained a lot (but not enough) confidence -- both professionally and (as a consequence) personally! My Spanish has improved greatly, and it's so great to be using my brain and skills, and to be making a difference. This HPV self-test and Pap study has already found two advanced cases: CIN3 and carcinoma in situ. Those women may have died without the study. My boss Andrea is very nice, and her boss is too, though she's crazy. 2. Both parents have been hospitalized in the past year -- Dad twice. He's currently in a rehab facility. I don't remember feeling much except that I was quite upset with my brother that he didn't see the urgency, didn't plan to fly down and see Mom. I worry about how we will get along through our parents' decline and after their deaths.

My grandmother turned 90 in January and we took her on a Panama Canal cruise to celebrate. Although she's not especially mobile, she was game for any adventure that she could tackle. She was a rock star among the passengers and the crew treated her like a queen. I was so proud of her and inspired to live my life as fully as long as I can.

I am resentful that my 40-yr-old daughter has not kept her promise to pay her share of our living expenses. She was to have gotten a job over a year ago and hasn't. I cashed in a pension in order to buy a house for her and her 3 children (+ me) and she has not fulfilled her promise to pay 1/2 of the household expenses. I am TOTALLY appreciative that she is (for 3 years) a recovering drug addict - and am therefore hesitant to rock her boat.... BUT I am 63 years old, paying her bills (I get her piddly child support) and need a way OUT of here. She works intermittently but has a 5 year old son who needs special care...

It is my first year with real money. We have not been crazy. Just a little more expenses than before - covered by interest mostly. The freedom, the pleasure of doing stuff spontaneously. Being able to indulge partner a bit. Less worry ie none. Learned to do international bank transfer. A bit annoying with G and N and Nicky pressurizing me. That is sorted I hope with a one-time bukhta. Soldier-son's hospitalisation for attempted suicide - we worked together - things have so improved since my day - support, openness, Health services - everyone so helpful, prayerful - he recovered so well

Sarah announced that she was filing for divorce. I was crushed. I did not understand her logic. I thought I knew her and that she valued our relationship. I resented her selfishness in putting her potential future happiness above our son's and my emotional wellbeing. I resented her sexism, however culturally based, which held and still holds that men should be emotionally stalwart, able to withstand anything with no support, while still being romantic and perfect sexually. My life will be easier, but less substantial. I did everything I could to stop it. I don't hold myself at fault at all. I can't express love forever when I never feel loved myself.

I am grateful to be retired. Teaching was extremely rewarding at times but I realized that there was a constant stress for me. I still thank God every morning that I do not have to wake up at 5 and trek into school. I miss my friends and I am determined to keep in touch with them. I worry that I will become lazy and I must fight that.

The drawn out deterioration in my relationship with my father, as my whole perception of who he is and his character changed based on experiences and things that have happened. The tension and difficulty of his moving into our community and acted in an extremely narcissistic way forced me to come to grips with the falseness that was always there. It's been painful, burdensome, I've struggled with feelings of guilt and over-responsibility, but ultimately realizing the truth is freeing even as it's also devastating. I am through the worst of it though, I hope. In the end I feel freer and especially really sick of and decisively finished with this nonsense in my life.

fui a Nicaragua a un colegio llamado pan y amor para ayudar a los chicos de ese colegio. Me ayudo para poder apreciar mas lo que tengo porque después de ir a las casas de los chicos y ver las condiciones en que viven me impresiono y me ayudo para tener mas motivación para ayudar

I commenced a divorce to help my daughter and I escape from her violent and controlling father. The divorce is still ongoing and my husband has skillfully used even the laws that are meant to protect us to continue his ongoing abuse of us both. It is harrowing and many days both my daughter and I say we want to die, we are so despairing - but I have to believe that when this process is over we will be at least somewhat more, if not almost entirely free - I can't bear to contemplate a different outcome for her or myself....

June 22, 2014 It was my 21st birthday and I never expected for you to utter the words, "Happy birthday, you're twenty one and single!" Even though I knew you meant to say this lightly, it hit me like a bullet train. These were words that came out from my favorite person's mouth. This is the boy I met three years ago, and spent the past three years with. There are times when I say to myself this is for the best, this is the perfect moment for my growth and find self-love for myself. However, there are moments when I want to crawl back into his arms convinced that we can make it through anything. I have this mindset that if I continue to give and give, love will eventually flow. I tried everything I could, I begged him to stay, but I have to learn to let go now and finally move on.

Our (my siblings and I) book was published! It was such an amazing accomplishment and the start of more adventures. I am grateful, relieved and inspired. I am blessed to have 8 siblings all over 50, all in relatively good health and we love each other and like spending time together. It just can't get any better!

Lost my job. Got a new one. Things have changed but in a good way. I am grateful for work. I am grateful for my family.

I was called to be the Youth Leader in our church area. Huge responsibility. Surprised, especially at my age. Took awhile to feel adapted to it. Yes, of course I'm grateful and love the calling. Inspired at times.

A significant experience has been to be back home for 4 months and opening myself to new options in Spain, closer to my family. I feel grateful for the time and very moved to see how I suffer being close and how much I learn about myself. At the same time I need to be there to help and I also enjoy bringing happiness. The other significant experience has been ending a job that lasted for years at a Film School. I am open, and quiet. I am being more coherent and more compassionate with my self talk , and reminding me that being confident in life its the best way to go.

I began to put on Tefillin each morning. I feel more connected with G-d as a result. I have a way to communicate with G-d and focus on what is most important to me.

I finished my conversion to Judaism. It was something that made me grateful and inspired. I am finally able to call myself a member of the faith I've been practicing for more than 5 years, and that feels amazing. I'm also able to fully participate in services which opens a whole new world of learning and service that I didn't know existed. This excitement is coupled with some trepidation though, because this faith carries a lot of responsibilities, and I sometimes worry about living up to the expectations in front of me. I know that no one is perfect, and I am still learning, but I want to do my best. All in all though, this signifies the end of a long journey and gives me great satisfaction and a sense of achievement and excitement.

My best friend and I began dating. He was my answer to this question last year, but it was because I was enforcing boundaries with him while he was dating someone else. Last year, I was proud that I kept him out, and stayed honest to myself. Because it was so difficult, it felt like an appropriate thing to be proud of doing, even though I hated that it was necessary. Now that we're dating, every day is a revelation: how to love someone, how to communicate with him, how to act in a way that considers our individual needs as well as our needs as a couple. It's all new, it's terrifying, and it's the most important thing I've ever needed to learn. I've never been so vulnerable before in my life - and now, here I am, willingly making myself vulnerable because that's what is needed, is required, is essential - and, in doing so, *we* become stronger. He's with me every step of the way, making himself vulnerable right along with me. I couldn't do it without him, and this time last year, I couldn't have dreamed where we'd be today.

The greatest significant experience I had was when I attended sleep away camp as a camper for the last year of my life. There were so many friends that I made, and that will last for the rest of my life, and so many amazing moments!!! I will never have to really leave my childhood.

I can't really think of one individual event, but there have been so many things that I'm thankful for: Tori's love, the kids smiles, the new job, traveling around The world and still living in NYC.

I changed to a running coach and I decided to take advice. :) At first, I was skeptical, some part of me thinking that I knew better. BUT, I was able to let go and follow directions. Grateful is an understatement. I made my goal of running a 5k in under 20 minutes in September. I would not have done it, had I not hired her and listened to her. I also made many new friends that I enjoy and cherish. I truly feel that I could not be more content at this point in my life and I'm so grateful for it. this is just one small part of my gratitude.

I'm gonna go with the first answer that popped into my head: Robin Williams' death. I'd known for at least a couple of weeks, maybe a couple of months, that I was depressed. I wasn't ready to admit it, though. Then Robin Williams died and all of a sudden the conversation about depression and mental illness was one that was allowed. Encouraged, even. My entire Facebook feed was full of information about how to get help, and everything felt like a community for once. I can't remember what he wrote exactly, but there were several posts by Jason Manford that really hit home. He, along with my friend Oli, made me realise that I shouldn't carry on ignoring what was happening in my own head. On my 25th birthday, I decided to get help.

My mother finally admitted to me that she needs to seek help for her depression. I never anticipated having two parents who both suffer from depression/alcoholism. I feel relieved to have opened up to my mother about this in the car while parked in the Safeway by my apartment (right before the homeless man tapped on my window and scared me mid-sob) but I currently feel like I still don't know how I can help her. I have also just got out of (in my opinion) a long-term relationship. He seems fine while I feel pained and hurt. I'm resentful but realistically should be relieved. I'm wondering when I'll stop putting such a precedence on filling that relationship void constantly.

I seriously injured my left knee, torn MCL, right before Thanksgiving. I chose to forgo surgery even though my colleagues at work encouraged/pressured me to have it. I am still healing but I expect to be back at full capacity by this time next year. I'm glad I didn't do the surgery and believed in my body's ability to heal. My granddaughter and I took a 2 week road trip during the summer. It was fantastic and I was really grateful to have done so. I'd love to do it again. She's really important to me and in a couple of years will be off to college. It was good to have this time together.

All the letting go has been the most significant experience of the year. Letting go of what does not serve me. Relationships that have been disappointing, remote, one sided. Seeking out a different direction for my energies, divesting of the stable, lucrative, in search of something bigger. I can't say I'm there, but I'm closer. Perhaps letting go, again and again, of what balancing motherhood, marriage, career and self is "supposed" to look like in light of the realities... and finding ways to make it work and find joy. I'm grateful for everything, though maybe not enough in the moment. The fear, the self-doubt, the disappointment that I"m not further along... and seeing others surge past with their big dreams and goals. This was really the first year I've felt "behind the curve" I haven't had a lot of regrets in the choices I've made or the work that I've done, what I've chosen to devote my time and attention to, but, at 45, I'm feeling the I need more connection, abundance, joy, love. I've been slowly creating that here in my sphere. I want to feel community around me and create that support and inclusion. I crave that. I am open to it.

Having someone treat me so badly for months on end simply because I disagreed with them over something seemingly petty, and didn't behave how they wanted me to. My reaction was initially to feel very hurt but later gratitude, that his behaviour toward me meant not having to converse or interact with such a narrow-minded and arrogant person. I still feel a little hurt I suppose, but I also wonder what happened in his life to make him like that in the first place?!

WarHorse came to a close on August 24th. I was grateful, sure, but mostly relieved. I have spent a lot of time in the past year thinking that I didn't belong in the company. On the final show after party, watching Caden and Curt belt karaoke in a small Tokyo bar, I felt that all the more clearly. There's something about it I'm not cut out for. I like the work, but I don't like the approach to the work. I don't like the social scene. As the next year approaches, I won't be actively pursuing acting. I wonder how that will feel.

This past year has been very mundane. I worked more than I should have because it was my almost singular focus. I did manage to finally visit Turkmenistan but my trip the the Gobi Desert and the Pamir Highway were both cancelled due to work. I have to say I do feel more resentful than anything about the work experience. But mostly I describe my current status as fatigued. Not tired, not even exhausted because those are mental and physical conditions that I can bounce back from. I am fatigued

A significant experience is dating Rohit, and lying to Madhuri and not telling Ari about it. I learned a lot about trusting myself, and trusting my gut, and not having fun now at the expense of later. I know that I will (or I hope that I will, or I believe that I will) never do something like this agan. Another significant thing is living through the war in Israel. War is terrible and divisive and destructive. And yet I am here, carrying on. It is so strange, to be broken by something and yet to continue.

CJ died. And it cut way deeper than I thought it would. CJ was a close friends father and for lack of cleaner language, well, CJ filled the roles that my dad didn't know how to. CJ cared about my relationships. CJ helped me with my writing and my acting in high school and college. CJ was the first adult to tell me I was funny. And CJ told me that my first serious boyfriend wouldn't work out. But he also told me that my sharp wit and sometimes cynical attitude didn't mean I was broken. CJ told me I was pretty in that way a father tells his daughter - to remind me, to make sure I used my powers for good and not evil and in a way that reassured me it was the icing on the cake and not by any means my only value. He was also imperfect and strange and conservative and all that. But, in many ways CJ was a second dad. And his loss cut deep and still hurts a bit.

This year I realized that I was the problem in my marriage. I decided that I needed to fix it and make it stronger so it would last. I sought therapy and am working on myself and going to make the relationships in my life all go where they need to be. I'm relieved and scared and embarrassed and devastated that I caused so much pain.

I started working at Lee. It has been a great experience working there. Granted it has exhausted me, and i did get let go, but my time there was invaluable. I learned so much and i grew. I learned about structure and discipline, not just ideally, but practically. I gained experience with being disciplined to get somewhere on time, with dressing appropriately and keeping clean, with being responsible for keeping things tidy... all these things have helped me to become a more responsible person, one who is more capable of taking on her own power. I also learned so many new social skills. How to listen, be more trusting, and especially live from a place of realization and truth. I learned that no man i s an island, and that actually we are better together. I met so many wonderful people who reflected beautiful things to me about myself and about the world. I feel relieved in a sense that i now have the time to recuperate because the stress totally zapped me, but i will forever be changed and have the refinement of character that i worked so hard at at Lee. I love that place despite its serious setbacks, being a capitalist business and all. I know once i get more energy back, i will be ready to keep going, maybe at lee, maybe somewhere else, but i have learned so much about myself, i am a better person because i worked there. I am so grateful. Everyday i am going to get up and get ready for my day, and be a success because i have learned more deeply about what it takes to take care of myself. that having high standards for your own self sustaining actually gives you more in return than the effort put into maintaining yourself. I have taken the first steps, now it is up to me to keep up the good habits, and continue to grow and prosper. I am glad this phase is over cause i am tired, but i am also glad that it happened. wouldn't change it for the world.

Of course , there was no greater event for me this year then the birth of our daughter Aviva. She shattered and remade life as we knew it. This is how I describe the experience of becoming a parent: imagine you lived your whole life in outer space. Imagine you were free to float weightless amongst stars and other beautiful bright things. Induction into parenthood is like being plummeted down to earth. It happens breathtakingly quickly. You feel disorientated, and nauteous. You're no longer in control of your own body and no longer free to chart your own course. As you burst through the atmosphere, you feel everything that once made up your identity burn away. By the time you find your feet again, you are a paired down version: scraped so near to the bone that you barely recognise yourself. It's all about survival now. Now, 13 months on, I'm finally beginning to add some the trappings of my former identity back onto my frame. In a word, I was gobsmacked. I love her, but I love me too and sometimes I think these two things are not compatible.

I became homeless. My two roommates moved out of our apartment. I was stressed, but excited for their futures. I defaulted to moving home, instead of paying crazy high rent and committing to a long lease. I hoped that by not committing to a lease, I would be able to make a career and location move. I have not done either over the course of several months. I have a long commute everyday. This has affect me positively and negatively. I am enjoying the time with my parents, but I miss my independence. I am not hanging out with my friends as much because they live 2 hours away. I am grateful that my parents do live close enough that I was not pressured into committing to a new lease. I am waiting to be inspired, instead of seeking my own inspiration.

I was not able to complete some algae counts I was hired to do after college. I have tortured myself for not coming admitting it for decades. In Carolyn Hax's August 12 column advised someone that was apologizing while at the same time rationalizing. If you're going to own up to it own up to it unconditionally. Bingo. That was me. I still have uncontrollable anxiety making mistakes. Burger and Starbird's effective thinking talked about actively going out and do something and fail to learn. I still have the anxiety but am trying to address it as it comes up.

I became a doctor! Im both relieved and inspired. I have already made mistakes and learned so much more than i thought i could take in!

the most significant experience for me has been my illness, which i had just started noticing during these questions last year. it has lead to so very many feelings.... anger, grief, sadness, frustration, confusion, even laughter and gratitude at times. it led, of course, to my retirement, which is complicated as well. and then is the memory loss, which means i don't know the incidents, the triggers, the moments. those are lost. that's the worst part; losing part of myself in the time. if i had the memory for an online diary, and the motivation, that might be interesting to look back on. dad asked me last night how it's going. and my answer is basically that i don't know yet. i'm concentrating on the ceiling, and it's early days yet, and.... maybe that's all it is; no grand plan, just one day at a time until it's a month, a year, a decade.

Wow, it's hard to think back about the last year and pick just one significant experience that has happened in that past year. There is so much. One thing that stands out is going back to school. That was a big move for me to not only go back to school (something I've wanted to do for so many years) but also to go back to school to study something that feels so integral to who I am but also something that doesn't have very much currency in terms of what constitutes "successful" in the wider world - both in terms of subject and degree. I feel grateful, worried, anxious, and proud of myself. I think, no matter what, I did something that was really true to myself and that can only stand me in good stead.

The most significant part of the previous year for me was the end of my school career. This has initially led to a huge feeling of maturity of enetering adulthood and a transformation in what stage of life I am in. However now that has given way to an intense sadness about the loss of my childhood. It feels similar to the passing of seasons I cannot stop them moving onwards but I'm constantly looking but i'm constantly looking back with longing. I'm still not sure i've processed how much change this has signalled in my life. I am both relieved and nostalgic, looking forward because of it but glancing back at all opportunities. The main fear it leaves me with is that no part of my future will ever be as good as these few years of my past. I accept that I cannot stop change but am still sad for all that I must leave behind. In think the correct description for how it has left me feeling is Melancholic.

I discovered my husband has been having an affair, that, he has been involved with this woman for 10 out of the 14 years we have been married. Not only that, but evidence and eyewitness accounts reveal his mother was the matchmaker. This woman is among a group of women I dubbed his mother’s wish list—believing that they were actually her fantasy for him not his. My most humbling insight is that my intuition and instincts were showing me loudly and clearly what was going on. Whenever I heard this woman’s name, a distinct dread welled in my gut. Shortly before I uncovered the truth, I noticed her name on his telephone and this time I spoke up, explaining, “I am not a jealous woman but I feel uncomfortable every time I hear her name or see that there’s been a correspondence between you. I know you say she’s a friend but I would appreciate it if you would let me know when you connect because that would normalize it for me.” He gave me his usual reply when I asked about her, “You don’t have anything to worry about. She’s fat.” Then he’d draw me close in his arms. I chose to believe my husband. I chose to doubt myself. I chose the lies and deceptions. It was easier to believe that I was mistaken than to imagine the truth being true and I actually knew what I knew. Although I have always seen the unseen and heard the unspoken in the room, I learned the hard way not to mention the elephants. For as long as I can remember, I was taught to shut down and sublimate my intuitive nature. Because I was told I was wrong and too sensitive, I learned to mistrust myself at an early age. To fit in, I ignored all the signals, signs, and sensations, tried to be more logical and less sensitive, and if my brain couldn’t rationalize it to me, I trusted the authority of those around me who always seemed to know what was actually happening and happy to tell me. I also ignored the many shifts in my husband that resulted in shifts in our relationship. I chalked it up to everything except what was really happening because I trusted him. He had walked in on his first wife and one of his closest friends making love in their bed. He personally suffered the pain as the one betrayed, the one whose life was a lie. Seeing what it did him, it never occurred to me that he would become the perpetrator of the same act in our marriage. I remember how he recognized in hindsight that his wife was involved with another man. He ignored the same emotional and behavioral changes I did. He told me before her affair was uncovered, she distanced herself, found fault with everything he did and said, and was angry with him all the time. When I discovered the truth, I felt horrified and mortified. At the same time, I recognized that other parts of me that felt relieved to discover I wasn’t crazy. There was one thing in all the distortions that had become the truth though, and once I saw that, my whole body, mind, heart, and soul self-corrected. I recognized that I had come to believe so many lies about myself and taken on so many projections that I was no longer myself. Without noticing the incremental shifts in me over time, I disconnected from my true loving nature and became exactly who he accused me of being. I recognize his accusing me of being unloving and angry was exactly how he was behaving toward me and how his first wife behaved toward him. And it was exactly the energy I had been living in for years so I was pickled in it. Once the veil was lifted, I came to understand so much about what was being said and done and what wasn’t being said or done in our home. I imagine it’s like having one’s eyesight restored. Once the light comes it, the world reveals itself more fully. This whole experience is still unfolding and it is too soon to declare the lessons learned. What I do know is that I am more me than ever before and so my life is more beautiful than ever and so am I.

Had an argument with my wife on the eve of our first anniversary. While it seemed to her to be a harbinger of bad things to come, to me it was really the first time that I felt safe to be able to listen to my own reactions and follow through on how I felt. I think it helped me see what a very good fit we are; ironically it left her feeling very vulnerable and afraid.

I graduated school. I am incredibly proud of my result and my hard work, relieved that it's now over and that I don't have to worry about it anymore, and slightly sad about it at the same time.

My church elected me as their Clerk/Treasurer this year. I am thankful that I am a trusted member, and this honor also makes me a little fearful. I don't want to let anyone down. I want to do the very best job I can do, not only for my church, but for God. I want to be a good steward. This new challenge made me realize I have to do a better job of the other activities I am involved in so that I will have the energy and the mental clarity to do it correctly. I must starting saying "no" to certain requests - this is making me much more thoughtful to what I agree to do for anyone else, even myself.

Got engaged. Inspired and excited and optimistic and hopeful for what the future holds. Affected me because there's more certainty about who will be in my future, but at the same time unknowing (and excitement) of what's to come

Getting engaged was a momentous occasion for me this year. Having been in a relationship for a very long time but never having the guts to make it official was something that had been eating away at me for many years. The decision to finally commit to a person that I love was one that was difficult at first but has gotten easier and easier by the day, to the point now where I have no doubts that I made the correct decision. I am relieved and grateful that I finally did it, and cannot wait for our wedding day.

I am sitting across from a man that I love and I realize that we have absolutely nothing in common. He stares at his phone while we sit at a table in a bar in New Orleans. I'm enjoying the jazz music, the smoky haze, and the companionship of this man that I love but I am also fully aware that we have absolutely nothing in common. It occurs to me that I probably bore him. (He is a drinker and I am almost four years sober.) We are in New Orleans celebrating his birthday while our relationship is beginning to unravel. Our differences become more and more apparent and I don't know whether to try to talk it out or run. I ask him if I bore him and he tells me that I don't bore him but there's only so much fun that one can have in a bar with another person who doesn't drink. I haven't left him yet, but I left that bar in September wondering whether we would spend another birthday together.

Giving birth to my daughter, Lena. I suffered paralyzing depression during my pregnancy and following what was a traumatic experience after her birth. But she has made stronger, better, and wiser. She has refined me and challenges me. She calls to my inner self to be more.

My daughter, who has autism and an intellectual disability, turned 18 this past year. It had an enormous affect on me. I felt a very intense and ongoing grief over this, because if she did not have these issues she would have been applying for college and making a decision about where to go, aching to leave home, chafing under being a fledging adult still in the nest. I shed many tears in the past several months, way more than I have over the past 15 years since her diagnosis with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. And yet...I am now ready to let that go and to move on to working with her, for her, to create a happy and meaningful life for her.

Grandfather passed. Resentful

I moved my mom up from Florida to a nursing home near me a couple of weeks before her 92nd birthday. The last time I lived this close she was 48. It has been and continues to be a difficult transition for me. I think she's done the transition pretty well. She has some dementia but it tends to paranoid dreams that she believes are reality. So it's not that she doesn't recognize me that's hard. Her life has become very small and it's hard to watch her be frustrated and in pain. Many days I resent the time I spend with her particularly because I feel my sister, who lives across the country, isn't doing her part. She comes every 2 months for 5 days but in between she never even calls mom.

Earlier this year, I finally told my dad that I wasn't interested in a relationship with him because of his choice to abandon me as a child. This decision offered me a lot of immediate personal relief and has allowed me to start living a less guilty and more healthy life. However, I do question if I will one day regret this decision.

I adopted a rescue dog and then had to return her to the rescue because she was aggressive with me and my husband. We had already gotten attached to her and it was (and still is) very painful. It was the only decision that we could have made and it was a relief, but it was still very, very hard.

Working with the amazing babies at SRDC - Summit Ridge Day Camp. I went into that job not really knowing what to expect and with pretty low expectations, and it was one of the best things that has ever happened to me. SRDC opened my eyes to the beauty of children, of teaching, and of inspiring little minds each and every day. They filled me with pure happiness, and showed me that I want to work with kids for the rest of my life. I am so grateful for that opportunity.

My daughter has stopped communicating with me. It makes me sad and resentful. I've always tried to see her warts and all, but the girl has a lot of shit with her. I've always left the door open and told her, written, texted, and sent videos to let her know that I'm always going to be willing to listen and/or talk about whatever her issues are with me. But she seems so bogus to use the excuse that I talked about religion with her atheist boyfriend. I'm sorry she has not started to do any really honest work resolving her own issues or issues with her relationship with her divorced parents.

A very significant experience this past year was the death of my husband, my sweetie, after a long battle with multiple illnesses. My life is so different without him and I miss him so much every day. I'm grateful he lived the way he wanted to and died at home in my arms. I'm grateful for our relationship, and for the people whose lives he touched. But I am still sad, deeply sad. I am learning to live alone for the first time in my life, and it is uncomfortable. I don't like it. But I realize how wonderful our relationship was, and what a gift we gave each other, an open and honest 15 years! What's next? I am seriously floundering, trying to figure it out. I don't fucking know what I'm supposed to be doing, or what the next adventure is. But I will stay open and receptive.

One son engaged, one son drinking, the best of times, the worst of times. Grateful, relieved joyful, scared, anxious. I am reminded that my responsibilities as a mom never end and I must always be diligent and know that my influence on my sons lives is important.

I lost my best friend. I was not able to say goodbye or thank him for everything he taught me, for the selfless love I recognize that he gave me and the years of friendship, of sharing the experience of being human beings together. I am grateful to have known him, humbled by the gift of his friendship and heartbroken that I was not there for him in the end. This person was a beloved teacher, dedicated, devoted to the faith a real joy to know. I learned so much from him. I can only hope to be the kind of person he was, to serve others and maybe one day inspire others to be good people as well. If I brought him happiness with my friendship and love and caring, then I can consider my life worthwhile.

1 year sober, feel proud, grateful. Still a struggle with depression, day by day, need to maintain the connections, the practices that I learned in treatment. Proud that I've not had any alcohol for this long (including holidays, travel, airplanes, birthdays, weddings...!) and have lost 53lbs! (Weigh 111 down from 164). Got new job. Felt so relieved, happy, excited, nervous. Love the work and love the people. Still questioning myself since I am only "office admin", but feel like there's many opportunities for growth and learning here.

Taking the birdhouse to priceless was incredibly important, challenging and fulfilling. The last few years my larger public artmaking has been subsumed into a collaborative group. which is fulfilling in its own way and harder in some, but safer in many respects. It was terrifying to get back on the horse and build my own art again esp on a large scale and public. But it was exhilarating and fulfilling.

After 9.5 years doing work I felt passionately about, I had to leave due to complicated factors including my being a relationship with someone in the department and a reinterpretation of the HR policy. Though I am clear that my loving, committed partnership is worth the loss, it was a very challenging transition to leave the agency, which was a professional "home" to me and working with a population I care deeply about. I moved through intense anger, sadness, betrayal, and have come to a place primarily of acceptance, though there are still times I miss the work, my coworkers, and feel sad about the loss.

I went on my first real, honest-to-God date for the first time in a few years at the beginning of this calendar year--well, I went on two of them. And they affected me way more than I thought they would. The whole experience was quite new for me: I ran into an old friend that I found attractive at another friend's party, I got her phone number, and asked her out on a date. (I even specified that it would be a date so there wouldn't be any confusion.) I felt so mature and confident. And the date, as well as the subsequent one, went really wonderfully--I felt able to open up so much more because I didn't have to focus half my attention on the is-she-or-isn't-she dance. And I actually found her attractive--she had this great smile that could light up a room--meaning that I didn't have to focus the other half of my attention on debating whether I was really that interested. Both were really life-affirming events, and though things kind of failed spectacularly after then, I was glad to have the experience as a "what-could-be" moment.

i moved to Melbourne under the pretense that the grass was greener. and in a lot of respect it is. I am unbelievably grateful for the opportunities i've had here. the friends i've made. the relationships i've formed. but i resent the fact that i did it with AUJS. i should never has used AUJS as a reason to move. It got me here, but i didn't want it afterwards and i've spent the past year wishing the year away. I think this has been one of the most challenging experiences and i totally wouldn't change it for anything but i don't think im ready for it. I love melbourne, but i need to grow up a bit more before i come back and i think this is the biggest lesson i could have learned

Graduating college Going on the major grad trip (israel, croatia, florence) Going on the graduation trip really taught me a lot. How much I am in my head sometimes, especially when I don't meditate. How much our to-do list is a way for our ego to sabotage our experiences. For example, I felt guilty to enjoy the trip, always thinking I should be using the spare moments to send networking emails and set up interviews for when i return. why the guilt? I can't relax? who was putting this pressure on me? Either sit home for a couple hours and kill it, or dont let it kill you. Then, the fact that i went to Greece for the weekened. How much stress and turmoil just for those mere couple of days. How much negativity I experiences and inejcted into others becuase of this 'horrible' decision. I also realized a a lot about decision making. how its hard for me without my parents consent or opinion. in the end, I needed my mom to tell me to go or not to go, as I was next in line for the airline check in. trust your intuiton. And, how difficult it was for me to sit with myself. my mom suggested for me to take a mere 10 minutes to meditate and come to the decision myself -- the idea of beign on my own REPULSED me. I was nearly offended she recomended such an idea. How sad that it was so hard to be alone. poor baby. what make it so hard for you to have peice of mind? or a moment of silence. then when I was there I was resentful as well. this island was ugly. the nightlife was 'rachet'. the girls were immature. instead of using it as time to detox and relax either, i barely slept, was too afraid to take a cab home by myself and suffered/complained when I was out with the girls. either go with the flow, or make an effort to change the direction of the stream (aka dont follow the group and just go home!). Another thing I learned was the beauty of being by myself. My last day, I FINALLY organized my gooddam luggage and did laundry (even tho I was kinda rushed and starving). But, it brought my peice of mind again. Then, I searched the whole town for a nice place to eat. finally, I found a modern design cafe on teh waterside. ate the same greek salad with tuna I could have and did get at every other restuarant. but it was the architecture and 'hesabi' design that mattered most. after searching the whole island for the best beach, i ended up coming back to the same beach, right in front of that same cafe. grass is greener...right in front of your face sometimes. the highlight was the romantic dinner I had with myself. A delicious white fish and white wine. On teh most intimate spot on the island -- not only was the dining area on the level of the water rather than above, but I was also the only small table on the ledge for the fisherman to step on to deliver the fresh fish in the morning. aka #1. the waiter so kindly ask, "why is it that such a lovely lady is having a romantic dinner by herself?" For the first time in a while, I did not feed lonely. I thought to myself the quote I learned on Birthright in Israel, "Eem ein ani li, mee lee?" If I do not have myself, who do I have? It confirmed for me the importance and value of being able to be by yourself. with yourself. love yourself. yes, a partner, family and friends are pivotal parts of life, but you can't seek meaning in them. they can't provide the foundation for you. because in the end, we also die alone. so its up to us to love ourselves.

I lost my job when the start-up I was working for folded. I was initially pretty confident that I would land on my feet quickly, but I decided not to take the first thing in hopes that I could find something I was really passionate about. One month turned into two, two months into three, and at the beginning of that third month I received a second offer. I knew in my gut that this also wasn't meant to be and declined it, without any warm leads in the pipeline. I doubled down on my job searching efforts and it paid off -- I landed two offers in the 4th month of unemployment and accepted one that I am really excited about. I think I kept an optimistic view for the majority of the time, but I did hit a hard spot after turning down the second job. I felt fortunate to have a few people in my corner who were able to support me during that time, though I found mostly it was a lonely journey that I had to conquer by myself. The time allowed me perspective to think about where my career and life are headed. In the end, I feel both relieved that the search is over and excited about the path I'm projecting. I'm also a bit nervous - I have set high expectations both internally and externally through the interview process and I want to make sure that I exceed these expectations.

My father was discovered by a neighbor, delirious and incoherent, practically comatose, two days before Christmas. He was in the hospital for over 3 weeks, followed by a rehabilitation center. It was discovered that his illness in December, was really just a symptom of multiple myeloma. And on September 13th, he passed away. It's been a hard year, but I learned more about my dad, seeing him more than I had for quite sometime. It brought me closer to my two older half sisters, and to my younger (6months!!!) step sister. My level of grief is at times overwhelming, and surprisingly manageable. I regret not having a recording of his singing.

This past year I ran my first and second half marathon. The decision to do so was inspired by trekking in Peru. On that weeklong trip I realized that I couldn't enjoy the experience if I kept thinking about each time we would take lunch or reach our destination. Every morning we'd wake up and there would be another mountain to hike. I had to let go of counting and milestones to just enjoy and focus on each breath. This inspired me to train for a half marathon which required a similar mindset. I let go of counting miles and how many minutes I had left. I just enjoyed the music and the feeling of moving. I also learned how to take care, prepare and reward myself for these long runs. Sometimes I still can't believe it was me who completed these races. These runs overall allowed me to surrender to the experience and inspired me to see where else I can incorporate this approach.

I moved out of a flat with my friend. I think it was best that way as I think I was really letting myself go. Not really looking after myself, or the flat. Becoming less reliable etc

I learned to put my - not so happy - past behind me, and with it leave behind the poisonous relationships, which were hard to let go. But I did it, and feel much better now that I have acknowledged which of my friendships are good for me, and I can appreciate them much more.

I graduated from my doctoral program. At first, I was in shock. After 11 years, I thought I would never finish. Now, I am relieved and trying to get my life back. I am also concentrating at work for the first time in almost 7 years. It's strange not having a monkey on your back. Sometimes you miss the monkey's company, but most times you are happy to finally walk unencumbered.

Quitting my job was one of the hardest decisions to make at the time, but one of the best things I have ever done--and one of the easiest decisions when I look back. Trusting in myself, in the love and support of the Divine....I could not possibly still work there. I learned to take care of myself first. I said at my exit interview "I feel myself doing work that is not my best, and the work I do is too important not to do with excellence. I cannot stay when I am not able to do good work, because that is unethical." That was a good lesson for me. And what Amy told me during my internship was so important: "Don't look up clients after they aren't yours anymore. Hold onto your successes with them, and then let the rest go." I like where I am now, and I am proud that I was able to trust enough to leap and let the net appear. "When you come to the end of all the light you have known and are about to step out into the darkness, faith is knowing that one of two things will happen: there will be something to stand on, or you will be taught how to fly."

My ex-husbabd came back into my life for a brief period of time. It brought back into focus feelings that I thought were gone that I discovered were only lying dormant. In some ways I am grateful for the few short weeks we had together but when it ended it was quite painful and left me not trusting him once again. It let me know that I have never stopped being in love with him since I met him over 18 years ago and it reminded me how much I want to be in a loving committed relationship and have a companion/ husband to love and be loved by and experience life with. And whether it is with my ex-husband or someone else, I am ready for that new season of my life to begin. I am tired of living life alone and I want someone of my own to love and cherish and to be loved and cherished by.

After I spent some time being single and hurt, then quasi-involved with my ex on-and-off, and then going on a lot of dates and sexcapades (about a year's worth of exploration), I found myself in a new and scary and exciting relationship. I feel really grateful and appreciative for my partner. She is kind, smart, thoughtful, loving, fun, communicative. This has been a big relationship of growth and unlearning some old patterns for me. I feel grateful for the ways she pushes me to think about my life, my goals and values, and also to be vulnerable, expressive, and my truest self. It feels a little corny, but being in this relationship, navigating the challenges and joys and fears and all of the feelings, has been really meaningful for me.

I broke up a long, painful and intense relationship. I miss him everyday or I miss the idea of what we could have been. I am not sure why I miss him , whether because I love him or because I am afraid of letting go. I feel paralyzed by not being able to decide what is good for me and what is true for me. I feel like naked in the dark. And at the same time I am unable to give myself completely to the man that truly loves me and for whom I terminated previous relationship in the first place. I am in the worse place I have ever been in my life and I am not sure what is a way out.

Of course the most significant experience this year was the birth of my son, Henry Michael. It changed my whole life. The birth itself, and the following months, humbled me. It gave a whole new meaning to "never say never". I am extremely grateful that he was born healthy and that he is such an alert, happy and beautiful boy. So curious.

I met S. It has turned my life upside down and made me reassess everything I thought was 'normal'. I am scared, excited, inspired about the possibilitites

My 84 yr old father nearly died. He had kidney failure and spent a week in the ICU. All 7 of his children came to see him in San Angelo, Tx thinking we were saying our goodbyes. He pulled through but I was disappointed that his attitudes towards his kids and life had not changed a bit. I would think an event like this would create change in a person. I'm more disappointed in myself for feeling this way.

A significance experience was me going to Sourh Africa! I was something that I said I wanted to do last year and got to do it as a mission trip. I didn't have too pay for it. All the money I needed was raised. I got to experience God there like never before. I got clear on what a marriage looks like. I got to see first hand how God provides for the vision he gives you- our camp ground. I meet some awesome women and got to do life with them. I was able to experience my moms love for me. People I never would have thought supported me. I was at peace! I was with God every morning on the beach. I'm so blessed that it happened!

This year my wife and I sold our home of 21 years and built a town house. We have had many such projects before but this was by far the most stressful. Over our 32 years of marriage we have dealt with many stressful events, including life threatening illnesses. So, while this was the most stressful elective project we had ever undertaken, it was by no means our most serious test. Nevertheless, working with my wife through all of the issues involved in a home sale, build and purchase, was a great experience in partnership. We agree on important things, give in the the less critical ones where we disagree , and support each other in the decisions we make. The experience was reinforced our appreciation of each other and for the life we share. I'm so very lucky to be married to her.

traveling to Israel with other educators. I found myself inspired about my teaching but overwhelmed by the breadth of experiences continually coming my way.

My father passed away last December, this experience has changed me in several ways, I miss him all the time and I allow myself to feel grief. I also feel anger and I allow myself to feel that as well. I am very resentful that life took him away from us, he was too young to go. I didn't think I would lose a parent so young. Life kicked me in the gut and I am still trying to breathe again. My wedding is coming up in a little over a month and my dad won't be there to walk me down the aisle, this makes me cray almost everyday as the date gets closer. I did learn one thing from his death, people you think will be there for you won't and others that you didn't expect to be there for you will surprise you. I was raised to move forward and that you can't stop, I just wish I could call my dad and talk to him, see him this year, for now I will have to settle for seeing him in my dreams.

It's hard to describe an insignificant experience of the past year. Where to start? I went around South America and had such a lonely and anxious experience - although I was so grateful to travel and to see so much of the world, I also realised that I was there for all the wrong reasons. Not to soak up culture or enjoy others' company but to challenge myself and prove that I can be alone and independent. I've learnt that I don't need to do that anymore. I then went to Sri Lanka and taught my clinical skills to local agencies. The experience finally brought home how important it is to me to promote gender equality and taught me that I work too hard, and need to relax and allow myself to enjoy all that I do. It has also made me decide to do something to empower women. I broke up with my fiance and almost lost my mind. I learnt the importance of giving space, of letting go but also of recognising love. Now, six months later, I think I'm starting to see past all the anxiety and uncertainty of our relationship and take comfort in the love, friendship and companionship that has survived the hardest of winters. I am so incredibly relieved to have this man in my life. I started working again and all my insecurities regarding my competence have resurfaced as I've struggled to navigate who I am professionally and who I'd like to be. This is an ongoing struggle. I've learnt that I'm tougher than I thought and that I have survived experiences I thought I couldn't.

Traveled to what is probably my favorite city, in my favorite country, with friends, but didn't have quite as wonderful a time as had anticipated. It's not the MOST significant experience one can have, but it made me realize that one cannot predict everything. However, I am very grateful for having had the opportunity to go. I did enjoy some parts of the trip.

I bought and renovated a home. I am delighted. It is something I have wanted to do for a long time. I feel proud. Of the outcome. Of the process. I fell in love and gave it my all, only due diligence was undertaken, and issues ironed out. I adore this place, and it is my own.

I made the choice to end a ten year friendship because I didn't want to continue my half of a codependency any longer. I'm very sad and miss her very much because I know she is a person that has been deeply hurt in her past. I never wanted to be a person that would hurt her. I told her that our friendship was about transcending childhood pain, if we let it. I said it would be difficult, but that we'd both have to own our own dysfunctions in order to heal. She wanted no part of it. I said then that I'd have to leave. I feel more authentic in my interactions with people and live deeper in my integrity as a result of the parting of ways. It took a lot of pain to finally wake me up to the fact that that friendship wasn't working for either one of us. I think it had to be that painful for me to finally say to myself, "Why do you keep ending up in this same place with her? Why are you accepting a low level of abuse from her when you know better? You can see it is a co-dependancy--what is your half of it and how can you change that which is in your power to change? Can't you see that by not addressing this, you are leaving her in her pain as well?" Then knowing in my heart that if I make that change, I could lose her friendship forever. It took awhile for me to come to grips that it wasn't the kind of friendship I thought it was. It was based on me keeping my feelings to myself in order to "keep the peace". Peace at any price, including compromising myself, is not peace--it's unconscious and abusive.

The significant experience was completing my Ortho-Bionomy program....first round. It prompted my move to Texas and a cross country move. I am grateful but I'm a bit overwhelmed with the list of things to do. I

Victor, 83, born 12/23/1930, a friend of the family living with us got ill. He is living in America alone. His immediate family lives in the Philippines. There is no one to care for him but me and my mom. He had a mild stroke on or about December 27, 2013. Tess and I spent our New Years day at VA Loma Linda Hospital. Victor was discharged. However, Victor was getting worse by Jan 7, 2014. He had progressive stroke, and on the 8th, we took him to emergency room at West LA VA Hospital, he was admitted by midnight of Jan 9, 2014. He had 2 strokes after that. He end up with peg tube, and also filter onhis vein to stop clogging his heart. Doctors wanted to send him to Hospice. I was told that he will never get any better. He DX was semi paralysis, Parkinson's disease, prostate cancer with mestasis, cholesterol, diabetes, etc. He cannot take anything by mouth. We were told that he was never going to get any better, he will jus get worst. We advice to make a funeral arrangements. and I are adamant about him getting better and coming home. I stalled doctors from sending him to a nursing home. I also worked on his children to cone to visit him. Got visa for his daughter, Sharifa and her husband. I am also working on getting his two other daughters to get their visitors visa. I found out that the doctor's were giving too high of a doze for his Parkinson's that caused him to be like vegetable. When the dosage were lowered down drastically from 102mg to 37mg. He was able to move his foot a tiny bit, a sign that he could survive and may qualify for reconditioning therapy. I was relieved and grateful when Victor was able to go to Rehabilitation for 2 months. On May 2, 2014, Victor was release. It inspired me to be a conduit to the healing power and know that the energy field of the spirit world and the divinity exist Today, Victor is able to swallow and eat soft food. On October 6, 2014. We have a dental appointment for Victor, I think this will help speak better and also eat more solid food. Victor is also able to walk several steps with an aide of a physical therapist. I am inspired to help others heal themselves. Am I really meant to be a medium and conduit to heal others? This significant experience takes my breath away.

My most significant expierence of the past year is the realisation that nobody is perfect. Everyone has their own share of troubling emotions, inadequate behavioural patterns and sheer ignorance. And we all have the same potential to release ourselves and others from these imperfections. Yet many others do not even realise this potential, let alone attain it. In my mind, a different ignorance reigned. A strong filter rendering everyone else better than me, and beating me up for it, hindered all facets of my life. Through analytical meditation upon the workings of my mind, I have realised this ignorance. Lifting this illusion to any degree is a great relief, as well as an inspiration to continue my efforts to believe in myself and be the change I want to see in the world.

Eleven members of our family flew to Las Vegas, rented two RVs, and drove around the southwest for eleven days. I was worried about the trip from the early planning stages. I need some quiet time every day, and there was no way I could imagine that happening. Shortly before our departure I realized that my irritability and lack of get-up-and-go were signs that I was depressed, which made me worry even more about the trip. I was definitely relieved when it was over and we were returning home. I had moments of resentment- I resented my husband's automatic reactions to things I said or did. I resented the fact that my husband had meticulously planned every day of the trip yet his sisters and brother-in-law did not seem to me to be sufficiently appreciative of this. I resented that I was on a trip that I really hadn't wanted to go on in the first place, but agreed to in the name of compromise. I resented that my bil was only concerned with himself and the hikes and other activities that he wanted to go on and didn't seem to care how his plans impacted everyone else. But I also had inspiration and spiritual moments looking at the beautiful landscape of our country. It was also wonderful to see all six cousins together, enjoying each other's company. Above all, I'm thankful we were able to share this trip and show our children this part of our country.

I asked my ex-partner to homeschool our son who I felt was beginning to, once again, shut down and feel terrible about how poorly he was doing in school. It turned out to be one of the worst things I ever did. My ex and I had been getting along fairly well and I thought we had similar feelings about educating our son. Instead, she became very closed and controlling about the entire affair and refused to discuss my concerns or ideas. She was unapproachable and had told me I was not allowed in her home to see her teach as it was not a public school. - I went to our mediator and was counseled to get a lawyer. I am anguished by my decision - what I thought would be a good move that would support my son's growth has become an intense bitter battle

My school got a new principal who is supportive which is a change from the previous principle. I'm very grateful.

Finaly managed do visit Israel, a long posponed dream. I felt at home and grateful

In the last year I started a new job at a new company which involved leaving all my old work friends behind and meeting lots of new people. It's been an inspiring experience to meet so many new people with different skills and outlooks. It has also been stressful trying to figure out how I fit in in a new place, but overall it has allowed me to look at what my value system is and reflect on how it was being shaped by my last job vs. how I actually want to be perceived.

I moved from the city I had lived in for over 35 years to a new home in the city where my children have settled. Sold the house I had renovated and the beautiful gardens I had created. Bought a new house. Did a lot of clearing out of stuff before the move. It was a major life changer. I left a community of friends, not sure we would be able to keep in touch even if we wanted to. It's turned out very well. I'm happy. Contented. Feel at home. Missing friends but slowly making new ones. Grateful for my health and the luck of financial security so that I could make this move. Inspired to new learning and creation.

Ending my relationship with Carl is the biggest thing that happened in the past year. My whole life changed. At first it was devastating and colored everything for months. I was heartbroken; a year later, I'm ready to move forward but find it hard. I'm sad and it hurts to think about on several levels. But I'm strong and will survive it all.

I had a coworker that was bullying me and my boss did nothing about it. The coworker actively went out of her way to get me in trouble for things that I was not doing. She left recently for a new job. I am still resentful though and am not quite sure how to let it go.

Ahhh feel self conscious writing - eek! I think there's only one answer to this question. I could choose to talk about the power of support I've had, or the generosity and abundance of love I've gotten, or the moment M told me that she wanted to cover me and C's college loans, changing my life path in ways I don't truly understand. But the most significant experience I had, hands down, was battling the longest and most intense period of fear, sadness, and hopelessness I've ever experienced in my adult life. It had me ready to give up. It had me awake at nights, barely sleeping for almost nine months - January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September. Three quarters of a year. It took away my voice, it took away my hope. It took away my sanity - living on that little sleep and trying to find joy was hell. I wasn't alone - I had more support than I could quantify. Minis anytime I wanted, even at night, sessions on sessions on sessions, a lover to sleep with at night who woke up so I could cry, fought every night to learn how to help me through. The people who had me - I guess it's not how most people go through anxiety and depression. I didn't hang onto everyone I wanted to, I couldn't think about a lot of things, but I sure as hell tried. Throughout the whole thing I tried, throughout the whole thing I tested my strength and found myself the winner. Turns out you can live on one hour of sleep for over two weeks. Turns out you can even have fun, even make connections, be loved, love. It's so much easier now, I can't even understand it. My body is in a state of joy, gratitude, deep, deep, heart-feeling. Like the feeling (which I also have right now) of being healthy after a cold. What joy! To be alive! In a body that has what it needs! Oh, even now, on this new adventure in a new city far from home, far from my loved ones. I don't know how to look back on it now (which I am doing, right? I'm through? It feels like it, but only you, future A, can tell. That is, if you're alive (the hardest thing about writing letters to the future for Jews :)). I do love you, and I've worked to love you the whole time. Anyway, though, that time period functioned to crush me. It took away my ability to do so many things. But I think it also showed me my resiliency, and that no matter how hopeless things got there were people who were going to stand by me and come to my house and hold me. I learned a lot about overcoming challenges, and especially challenges that seem unsurpassable. This totally seemed like it was going to continue for my whole adult life. I sit here shocked that it hasn't. I really got through this?? People said that would happen, but I didn't believe them, I didn't believe I could access myself again, full and healthy and alive. It is a miracle, the best New Year's gift I could ever receive - myself, my body, my mind, rest.

I turned 40 this year. Darn that base 10 number system! Yes, I know the only significance in "40" is in my mind (and maybe that of others). Still, "40" invites analyses of accomplishments, shortcomings, and the journey itself--have my 40 years have been used the way I wanted them to be? Now that I am thinking about it, it is interesting that the first "significant experience" that comes to my mind is solely IN my mind. Maybe it is a good reminder that I should focus on "being" and "doing" instead.

My good friend was diagnosed with Cancer. It was such a shock to me, she has always been such a healthy example of how to live through diet, exercise, stress mindfulness, etc. Her getting sick knocked my universe out of whack. The realization that she was sick and not me, the one who has continually been ill and takes crap care of herself, made no sense. Realizing that I could lose another person I care about so soon after my fathers death sent me into a depression. So much so I got pneumonia again, and my anemia kicked in, which took months to recover. I would hope in the coming year I can listen to the wake up calls I have been given and learn from her example of strength and health instead of getting wrapped up in depression.

I felt good when I figured out how to ride the bike.

In this past year my best friend and lover was diagnosed with terminal esophageal cancer. His friendship helped me survive and grow through the last five years of an unhappy marriage and eventual separation. He taught me That I had more strength than I realizedshortly after learning of his diagnosis I found out that throughout our relationship and 10 years prior to the start of it he has been it what would best be described as the relationship with the love of his life, A wonderful woman who happens to share my first name. At first I was very angry and hurt. This knowledge confirmed since I had about the relative importance of our relationship to him versus me. Knowing about his other lover did not however change the importance of our relationship to me and the tremendous strain and love and happiness it brought still brings to me. I resolved to support my friend as best I could and I'm glad that I have I only wish that I could do you care with him at the very end.

The birth of my son on May 11 2014. I am all of the above... And so very tired. And in love. And numb. And full of joy. I recently described my birth story as being not one but three stories. Or three versions of the same story. There is the funny version - I had visualized my first birth since I was very young. I always "knew" I would go unmedicated, that I would fully experience and "receive" every surge. So when my turn came up I sought out a doula and a natural childbirth class and I prepared my labor supplies and made a labor bead bracelet and did my yoga and meditation and filled a playlist with Chopin and Sigur Ros. When the time came and the shit got real, though, I didn't give a shit about my fucking playlist or my damn meditation cushion or those STUPID electric candles. I just wanted this monstrous demon baby OUT of my body. He must have been a demon because I was DEFINITELY in more pain than anyone else before me. I get to the hospital and don't care that all the lights are on or the iPod stopped working. I almost kick the midwife who brings evil messages like "honey you haven't had any cervical change in 2 hours..." Are you KIDDING ME? I wish everyone would just stop talking to me and HELP me get this baby out already. Then I "get" to push... "YAY" they all shout "you're almost there!" LIARS. every last one if them. Commence two hours of HELL. Of the greatest athletic event of my life. Did I say greatest? I meant shittiest. "Push into the pain" they tell me... "I need you to push harder" my doctor says. If I had had the energy to talk or move, I would have told her to FUCK OFF and kicked her in the face. Finally he's there. This slimy purple hot... Thing. On my chest. Taking a big fat dump on my stomach. Thanks dude. And I'm just feeling... Relieved. For years I had visualized this ultimate moment where my husband and baby and I become a family. Where we gaze lovingly at each other and him and a golden halo of love descends on us. But that's not entirely how it was. Instead of love, I felt overwhelming relief. Instead of a golden halo there were bodily fluids everywhere, sweat-soaked hair, flushed faces and meconium all over me and my new baby. After a few minutes I remembered I had a husband. I really looked at my baby... And then it hit me "more lidocaine!" I yell at my doctor! For the love of Gd and everything holy, numb the crap out of me down there! I don't want to feel anything anymore - certainly not those stitches! Half hour later i gladly hand off the baby I was so sure I wouldn't want to let go of so I could finally pee. Except I can't pee. I just brought forth an entire human being from within my body and I can't even manage a dribble. So I sit in the bathroom with the water running and think to myself "what the HELL did I just do?! That was the dumbest decision I've ever made! Why didn't I just GET that ever loving epidural? That was terrible!" I still can't friggin pee. So I get cath'd and then try to very unsuccessfully to breastfeeding my new baby... Something I also assumed I would automatically just... Do. Like some sort of goddess of motherhood floating above all the others. Basically, very preconceived notion I had felt turned on its head. And that was just the beginning, I imagine, of the rest of my life. Take 2: I felt so excited that morning. The first signs of labor invigorating and subtle. I walked with my husband and felt the warm May breeze and breathed in the beauty of the blooming purple jacarandas. My mom braided my hair and served me eggs and Fritos like when I was a little girl. I sit on my yoga bolster and joyfully receive each early contraction while swaying to Paul Simon and the other love songs my husband put on his most recent collection for me. "Oh wow" I say when one contraction is suddenly so forceful it stops me in my tracks. "Must be a sign of what's to come" I smile innocently at my mother as she rubs my back. Then somewhere in the early afternoon that feeling fades away and I am so scared. I'm nauseated and miserable and in so much pain. So much pain. Like a vice grip it doesn't let up. Worse - it comes faster and harder with shorter and shorter breaks. My pelvis and lower back feel like they are ripping apart. My enormous belly is tight as a drum. I am light-headed and faint. I can barely eat or drink and I feel trapped in my horrific pain. I want my mommy but she can't fix it and I'm like a fearful Child in her presence. The ride to the hospital takes only a few minutes but I don't know if I'll make it. I don't know if I'll last the elevator ride or the walk down the hall or even this birth. I want to scream. I say, more than once, "I can't do this anymore. I just can't. This is too hard." And when I'm pushing I feel so spent and like I could die there. And it's hard to see a finish line and I'm so tired. I cannot speak. I say nothing. And then he's there and I'm so overwhelmed with many emotions, not just love. I'm beat up, traumatized, changed forever. But I'm alive on the other side and so briefly my worst fear is quieted. Until I realize over the next month that the fear of death is even bigger and more real to me. And I must try to master it from a totally new place... The final story- I wake in the sunshine with my beloved by my side. My body is supple and full and heavy with life. We sing to our baby and greet the day. We walk amongst the jacarandas in the early morning heat and I know it's here. I feel my body in a way I never have before. There is blood and tightening and a pattern slowly emerges. I sway with each surge. Eyes closed and focused. As the surges intensify I move within the space of our home. For the warm waters of the bath to my bed to the floor. There is so much pressure and the pain is white hot. We leave our home for the last time as husband and wife - to return as mother and father I the not-to-distant future. As I move through every surge I take leave of my sweet mother. I must do this on my own. I must shed my inner Child and dig deep to fine the sexual beautiful Warrior Woman within me. My beloved is there with me. My doula gently guides me. And I begin to sing. I sing loudly and freely. The music rises up from my belly and fills the space. There is an element of theatre and performance though it is for no audience in particular. Outside in the deep dark of night the streets are deserted and the wind howls with me. I stand and I squat and sing my song. And the amniotic fluid rushes forth as is move through transition. My song is louder and deeper. I stand facing the world in my nakedness. I raise my arms in the air and sing my baby lower.. Lower... Lower. Until he is right there. So close I can touch him. I begin to push. And I'm aching and exhausted. I no longer speak. I see visions of the mighty women who have come before me. Of my sisterhood of powerful friends. Of my immensely powerful mother. They beckon me forth. Remind me of the power I was born with. The power held by women. I move through the final stage. I deliver my child from my body as my limbs shake and shudder. I weep uncontrollably in awe of this experience. This rite of passage. I am wrecked and covered in fluid and holding this tiny human. And I am beautiful. I am a mother. I am through the transition and ready for the next leg of my journey

I attended multiple births as a new doula, and began to trust myself and my skills in this life adventure. I also ended a relationship that was no longer healthy. I am feeling a lot of different things, including gratefulness, relief, resentment, and inspiration, but beyond that I am feeling really in sync with the universe and my path. I never knew it but everything was leading up to this exact moment, and it is all leading me somewhere else too. Somewhere great. I feel like I'm stoked to be right now. Just to be.

We moved one son to another school. So far my life is easier, and he seems a lot happier, even getting along better with his brother. It's too early to tell if that's all just because it's new or whether it's all better. More globally, I'm not surprised at all but disappointed in our lack of strong leadership and diplomacy in the middle east. This past year we spent tons of money on crap we didn't need to, and oh, more to the point, hey Obamacare, I lost my original health plan - my company thought they would take the government at its word that they would give better deals and dropped me. Did I get a better deal? NO. My son was dropped (with disability- it's a mistake) from the rolls entirely, we're paying more and receiving less, and I did not get to keep my plan. Did I see that coming. Yes, and I have no problem pointing out I TOLD YOU SO, because I did.

The most significant experience from the past year was getting in to the University of Chicago. In the days before, I was denied from my dream school, MIT, and was terrified I wasn't going to get into school anywhere. Chicago was never on my radar, and when I got in, I didn't even consider going. Over time, I absolutely fell in love with the campus and curriculum, and couldn't be happier to be a Maroon.

i was chosen to work for walt disney world as a part of their disney college program! the program was the fall of 2013 and lasted until the begin in of january 2014! i met so many amazing people, experience new activities, and meet the best friend of my life! I'm so grateful for this! also very inspired to chase after the things i love!

My father died unexpectedly. I am grateful that he lived for 87 years and that I made his start hugging and saying I love you, and especially that he didn't have to suffer. I mostly do not really think about it, as it doesn't seem to be real, and occasionally now get very emotional. I miss him and am so sorry that he will miss my daughter's wedding and future great grandchildren.

My significant experience is going from totally head/thought/idea/ ways of experiencing the world to allowing them to be more visceral, more powerful in my body. Specific time was recently when reading about angels creating a crown of prayers, it went through me like an arrow to the heart and I was filled with energy and created some beading/wrapping project into the night.

This past summer my best friends all moved out into an apartment in Hoboken together and then my sister and her boyfriend moved out. I felt resentful and jealous. I don't see my friends or talk to them as much. It makes me feel like a failure. I'm 25, still living at home, still in a job where I'm not making enough money or advancing. I'm stuck and it sucks and I can't help but hate everyone else who is getting their shit together.

I chose to do a second year with Public Allies. And it was rough. But it was also amazing. Meeting Matt has changed the way that I see things and has changed the way that I think. He really showed me how to not only see the strengths of the people but also to share that with those people. Sounds simple, but that is an incredible gift. And I now make an effort to do it. He also showed me how to be more sensitive to the diversity that is all around me and to be more confident in being a part of that diversity as a straight, white, CIS-gendered woman.

I got a divorce after 17 years of marriage. It was a difficult process and I can not sat that I feel anything but confused at this point.

Grateful for having taken care of my Mother with Alzheimer's who was in a care facility. Giving her joy every night after work and being with her when she took her last breaths. Knowing I was there for her gave good closure to being her son through her last days.

My husband and I got married in front of our families, and officially started our life together. Since then, I have learned the true meaning of unconditional love--what it means both to receive it and to give it.

In May I had 'stomach' flu. So painful and landed me in the hospital. I experienced a complete numbing of my nerves- I was in the hot shower, saw the steam, but it felt cold. What has happened since then is that I am paranoid at all the pings/pangs in my body. Is my stiff neck more than just a stiff neck? Is the muscle pain really muscle pain in my chest, a pulled nerve or something I should be truly worried about?

It's been a year of hardship. It sounds cheesey but this is the year that burned me down quite a bit, but I think I needed it so I can rise from the ashes. Brian and I broke up. The biggest part of my life, my biggest piece of identity came to an end. Watching my future walk away was really sad/startling, but now I know that it's for the better. The fun part is experiencing newness again. I do miss Brian, for who he is and the way he used to make me feel, but our relationship deteriorated for about a year and it would have ended poorly regardless. I would have miserable had we gotten married. I feel a mixture of resent and relief, but I've been working hard to lean on the relief to carry me through.

Went to florid to see my mom following her heart attack and hospitalization Three friends offered their financial support so I could go I was SO relieved to be with her and go to the cardiologist with her!

Apparently I got a job in Germany and this made me think how O feel of the people surrounding me, of who has same motivations as me, of whom will I miss, what is going to be different from now. I think that has got me into very much thinking and being grateful for the coming opportunities. Also I had the chance of participating in a family constellation with a great teacher. He has taught me to change my life and look at it differently. I feel grateful for having the opportunity to learn from him.

The most significant experience for me has been turning 50. I wasn't sure how it would make me feel emotionally, but it hasn't been very negative at all. In fact, I feel less attached to things. I've been going through my belongings and deciding that I don't need to keep collections. I can let a lot of it go. Things mean very little, if anything. As for getting older, well... I do feel a sense of being less connected to people younger than me. I feel like I'm at the beginning of my descent into old age (if I get there). I don't feel an urgency or necessity to start new projects, but would rather finish old ones or re-examine my life and see what I can use from it. i.e. old poems used as lyrics for new songs. Turning 50 has also made me realize that I need to start taking better care of myself. So, I have started walking, meditating, taking vitamins and trying to spend less time in front of a screen.

I took the fall off from NYU to live in Israel for the first time in my life. I didn't enroll in a program. I volunteered Sundays and Mondays with migrant caregivers from Southeast Asia. I saw the photos they showed me of their children half a world away who they hadn't seen in years. I spent Tuesdays at a beit avot where the old folks happily chatted with me in Hebrew. At meal times, I fed the ones who needed me to hand to mouth. I thought about how they fed their children and now were being fed by a stranger. I volunteered Wednesdays at a clinic for African refugees. They showed me their injuries from torture camps in Sinai. They told me they couldn't find work and were living cramped with 5 men or on a park bench. Thursdays and Fridays I traveled to the West Bank to witness the occupation. I immersed myself in suffering. When I came home I thought God bless America. But we have the south Bronx. We systematically keep a people down here too. This world is very broken, but I am doing all I can to heal it.

I joined a second synagogue and I discovered Renewal Judaism. I am more aware of how I feel and how I touch others. This experience has opened my awareness to my behavior and to a deeper understanding of Judaism. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn more and to grow in a new more insightful way. I am inspired to learn more thru reading and study and in developing a circle of people also interested in the same

I lost it to him. I'm relieved it's over, glad it happened, a little disappointed at the outcome.

I wrote, illustrated and am getting published two illustrated books, I started exhibiting my abstracts Very Grateful

Wow... significant experiences I have! Let's just claim the imminent breakout of Rob and myself as number one in terms of significance. It happened the tenth of May, around 7pm on Skype while he was in his Korean living room and I was sat on what used to be "our" bed. It was a long time coming, but it still burst me into pieces. I had a panic attack in the shower and called Brad - which is laughable in retrospect. I remember texting Simon as well, who was a great help even though I didn't want it then. I was wearing my black floppy sweater and I remember the sleeves being soaked with tears and nose dribble. Every time I wear that sweater, I think of that night. Now - just short of five months later - I am certainly not grateful, relieved, resentful or inspired as the prompt suggests. I still feel somewhat numbed by the experience and my emotional state of the moment tends to be based off of how my Tinder dates and social life are going that week.

Getting a new job. So, so grateful and relieved, and inspired by myself and my hard work, and wanting to improve.

Oh god, where do I even begin? At the beginning of the year I decided that I will start speaking to people about religion, in an effort to understand my own relations to god and the religion that I was born into. Realizing that I want nothing to do with it is one thing, but admitting it out loud? It changed my whole life. I met more people this year than I had in the past 5 years since I came back from Sydney, formed a beautiful friendship with a man I eventually slept with for the first time, getting hurt over it because of our differences and fears, but not regretting the experience one bit. I got back to writing about the things I believe in, sat for coffee with one of my favourite authors, and creating great conversations with people old and new. In short, 2014 is the year of great unraveling. Good or bad? I don't know, I suppose I will find out.

I graduated with my master's degree this past year, which felt momentous but also terrifying. Finishing that stage of life left me with a lot of possibilities, but also a lot of uncertainties, which I have been struggling to be OK with.

2014 was significant in 3 ways: I turned 60; Mark and I celebrated 25 years of marriage and this was the 40th anniversary of my SCI accident. Sixty seems like such a significant birthday - although I think I look much younger, I FEEL as though I've entered a new era of my life. Since the deaths of SLRBJ I am so much more aware of my own mortality, the finite nature of life - and not just the actual end of my physical existence but perhaps a sooner end to living as I am - that I could lose my independence, mental awareness, and conscious relevance before my beating heart stops forever. There is a sense of urgency to LIVE for what seems now like a limited number of years. 40 years of life as a SCI person is also significant. That fall down the mountain in 1974 was such a sudden, crazy event that has made my life veer SO differently than it would have otherwise. While I often think, and SAY to myself "it happened, and there is no return to that fateful day that changed my life" I DO wonder what may have lay on the other path. Perhaps I haven't mourned the loss of that life enough - - maybe that is the source of some of my sadness - - yet my accident has brought about experiences and joys I wouldn't have with out my catastrophic injury! 25 years of marriage to Mark is something I thought about on April 23, 1989 - - at the time I couldn't imagine NOT coming to this point in my life without him. I have NO regrets about marrying him, but it hasn't been without times of anger and frustration. I had hoped that this year would be a time where we would reflect on our time together, how it has affected our individual selves in relation to our Married Self. I sense that we have alot of work to do, but for some reason, 10 months into 2014, we have yet to do it in any significant way. I'm sad that we haven't been able to communicate our real selves to each other.

I left my stressful, abusive job for a healthy, inspiring workplace. The change in my outlook and health is so great, I actually went down a strength in my eyeglasses prescription. I am happier, more active, and no longer full of hate. As a result can better serve my families and be kinder to my husband. I could not be more thankful to be away from that horrible situation that I should have ended years ago, yet I do not regret anything.

I lost 40 pounds, grateful is an understatement. i never thought i would be able to ever do it. it changed me. love life again.

My sister Beth died in May. I was hoping this past year, there would be a break from death and losing those I love. This constant grieving has been hard and almost making me numb about loss. Now I am the last living of four siblings. My two sisters and my brother have died relatively young. It makes me wonder if I am next. And if not next...am I jinxed that those who are near me, die? Thankfully, my mother who lives with me is still with us, even though her heart is weak and is not functioning up to par, she is strong and keeping on. So, I am sort of pissed - at losing my sister - who died too young, too soon. She was doing everything she could to survive but her body failed her and now she is no longer here, forever. I miss her so.

This was my first year working on a big art project for Burning Man. When I first joined the project, I didn't really think I had any particular skills to bring, but that my biggest asset was my enthusiasm. I realized that my enthusiasm is a much bigger asset then I thought it would be. All of the things I did for the project did not require special skills, but rather just a willingness to show up and work. It made me realize that I am capable of more then I thought I was, and it also makes me want to tackle more challenges.

I taught an Access Bars Class (an energy healing technique) for the first time. I said "Yes!" took action, people showed up, asked for & received support and guidance and the planning and execution flowed with joy and ease. I experienced a channeling and facilitation of what was needed to plan and teach the class. I stepped into my power! I taught effectively and powerfully! I was relieved because I finally taught this class after putting it off for a year out of fear but the timing was perfect. I was inspired to teach more even in other ways besides Access Bars classes. I discovered that I can create and do more than I ever knew. Many fears and old stories or conditioning dropped away. I am grateful for the freedom to be more of just me with nothing added. Tuning into my inner knowing is the best way for me to receive guidance and support and expanding this out to my other guides expand me even more!

Received a history scholarship -- very unexpected, much appreciated, a great boost for my confidence.

My relationship with Zach reaching the five year mark on September 7, 2014 and on a very related front, us taking the time to really heal our relationship where it needed healing and strengthen it where it needed strengthening. Definitely relieved that we decided to make this move, and feeling helpful about our future together. There are definitely still times though when I think "He just said what?! He really believes WHAT? That's ridiculous/stupid etc" I guess the goal of therapy and healing is to have those moments become less and less frequent, and to be at peace with them, and have the skills to handle them thoughtfully and calmly, when they do appear. Part of my wants to as some of our friends that are in committed relationships whether they think about this as well, but part of me also thinks that maybe I don't want to know; that Zach and I have a relationship that really is more strained and full of larger differences than other peoples, and that this is just something we will have to live with...

The protracted illness and death of my brother-in-law. It brought the family together -- perhaps to stay a little closer -- but left a profound void with my wife. She lost her mother while still in law school and her father (still alive) to dementia. Her brother was the last close living link to her childhood.

I became a true "empty nester" this summer. My older son went to Israel and my younger son stayed in Peoria to complete an internship. I guess I am grateful, because even though my youngest son has two more years of college, it really got me thinking of how I was going to handle him really leaving for good. My older son has actually been gone for awhile.

I successfully quit drinking this year. This is something I've struggled with for a long time, and have essentially been buzzed, drunk or stoned for 15 years. I didn't believe I could do it, and I certainly didn't think the structures I thought I needed in my life could withstand the change. Some days I'm angry, some days I'm devastated at the absence in my life, but most days I'm moved, almost to the point of tears, by my friends who have stuck by me, adapted to the different selves I've presented in the past months, and am so relieved not to worry about cleaning up after a day, night, weekend, or month of drinking and drugging that constantly left my life in disarray. To say that I'm inspired would be a profound understatement and to say I feel "lucky" would be a disservice to the hard work and stamina the process demanded and continues to ask of me.

In February, I went on a service immersion trip with my high school. It lasted for about a week during our school break, in which time we would be doing community service in the greater New Orleans area. Packing up my supplies on the eve of our departure, I realized something quite amazing- I really had no idea what to expect there. I was certainly excited to spend time with other guys my age (as an only child it was a relatively new experience to live with about ten other people, sharing a house as we did), but I was also rather hesitant about such a new experience. It was not quite the fact that I would be far from home that daunted me, but more that I would be completely separated from my family, forced to be open in such an unfamiliar setting. Looking back, though, this seems to be a defining moment in my life. Honestly. Due to this trip, I not only learned much about the benefits of service, but also about living life. I felt a new connection with my classmates, who had now become my friends. I had learned to interact with vibrant but vastly different people there, who made me both laugh and cry. I even discovered a little about myself. I had acted as my own individual, for a week, and it had been great. In fact, I found myself reluctant to leave at the end. However, this impassioned feeling has indeed now carried over into all aspects of my life, and all because I took a risk, thinking that I would just go on a trip to New Orleans and help some poor people.

I'm feeling really not in the mood for this right now. I traveled. To Peru. I got a new job at DOE. Blah. What experience am I really excited about? Relieved that I got a job working with smart people. Not feeling that inspired overall though. I FINISHED GRAD SCHOOL!!! I knew there had to be something... I am very relieved, very proud. So glad and grateful to be done. Not sure how if at all it'll impact my life, but it'll be good to have the piece of paper... for my whole life :)

I started my first job out of grad school. It has been a mixture of experiences and emotions and effects - I am grateful to have gotten the job, grateful for all of the learning opportunities it has brought, challenged by having less responsibility than I anticipated and how that has affected my confidence, and challenged by the fact that this job is not my "dream" job and what that means about how I am living my life.

In the past year I completed my first year of grad school. It is not so much the completing the year of grad school, it is or was everything that went along with it. All the transitions. It was packing and leaving my home, it was parting from my daughter, it was living with roommates, it was losing my cats, it was always being surrounded by people so much younger. It was struggling with money and age and wondering if I was good enough but then knowing I must be because of the university I was at and the people I got to meet and experiences I got to have. The beautiful buildings and special places I found. It was moving again and the summer internship and living in Portland and moving again. A year full of so so many different experiences. I am grateful and amazed that this is where my life is. I am sad sometimes that my life wasn't more typical for my age but then I did not want typical. I have had amazing opportunities to hear and learn and run in places I did not think I would have but at the same time, my life becomes more pared down. As if the universe is trying to show the very core, the very essence of what it is I can do or what I need. I just need to remember that I am fortunate. That I am being given opportunities. That I am capable of what is in front of me. That is more than I could have dreamed of and that when others say to me it is quite an adventure, that it truly is quite an adventure. At times I am sad, at times I am scared, at times I am regretful, at times I am filled with awe, at times I am inspired, at times I feel free. At times I am hopeful. At times I long to find the answers that will show me how to use this opportunity to its fullest.

I found community. I began practicing yoga regularly and attending support group meetings. In these two spaces, I feel strength and hope. I am able to show up as me- and not apologize for how I'm feeling. I feel accepted, supported, and safe. Life feels more manageable. These people have become my family - they have my back, on good days and bad days. Having these genuine, supportive people in my life inspires me to shed my old skin {of fear and doubt}, and believe in myself and dreams. I am so grateful that places and people like this exist. Finding community has been a game changer this year.

A couple weeks ago, I was walking around without my diaper. My mom and dad let me do that every now and then. I kinda like it. It's nice to just hang out if you know what I mean. Anyway, I got this familiar tingly feeling in my butt. I knew what was coming next. Usually I don't worry about it too much because I have a diaper on. I just hide in a corner and let it fly. But I didn't know what to do without a diaper. Naturally, I freaked the heck out. My mom was home with me. God knows where dad was at the time. He's always disappearing on me. I fall asleep with him next to me at night and then I don't see him again until after I get home from playing with Owo and Owa the next day. Anyway, my mom kept asking me something about a potty. I was like, "now's not the time for questions! Something is coming out of my butt! It will not be pleasant!" I didn't want to just go on the floor. My dad would probably not be happy with that. I mean, he gets upset when he finds Cheerios on the floor. So my mom takes me to this small seat that I sometimes sit on for funsies. She put me on it which I wasn't so sure about. That seemed like the worst idea ever. I did my thing and...my mom totally went bat-nuts crazy. She was smiling and clapping and giving me high fives. She must really hate that chair. You ask if I was relieved? Well, yes, in a way. It was a weird morning. It started out nice and ended with my mom cheering me on as I defaced a plastic chair. Parents are so strange sometimes. I was just glad it was over with and that I'll never have to do that again.

I took Jane LaFazio's art journal workshop, and I discovered that, contrary to what I've always thought, I *can* draw. I am grateful, relieved and perhaps inspired-this opens up a whole new world for me.

My trip to Amsterdam was really wonderful! I just love to travel and wish I had more time and resources to put toward that endeavor. It inspired me to go to museums more often . During 5775, I'll going to try to go to a museum or exhibit once a month. Even if I have to go alone.

In May 2014 I started practicing Yoga at Yoga Studio Satya. I was first introduced to yoga long ago through video, and a few formal classes . I purchased a Mothers Day Special from the studio which included a 5 class package. The first class was Introduction to Wall Yoga. The class was so much fun!. I felt renewed. So I signed up for additional Yoga Wall classes along with Gentle Yoga, and Vinyasa classes. During the third class, I realized that yoga was going to be a big part of the rest of my life. "Yoga is for every body. Yoga is learning to love without judgment, find your path without expectation, and live your truth just as you are" (Amanda Neufeld). Through yoga, I have become better aware of my breath, body, emotions, and reactions. I am grateful, relieved and inspired.

A significant experience that happened in the past year was that I was able to switch jobs and move into the job I ideally wanted. It is a huge step because for the first time that I am working this is the job that I actually want to be at. Every job I have been in was a stepping stone to… For the first time I am at something that I want to stay and grow in. I am grateful yes, but also stressed and terrified to fail.

This year I went "all in" concerning a love relationship. This is the first time I've let my guard down and allowed someone in since the dissolution of my 17-year relationship in 2010. It was a big step. I've noted that since this wall came down I've been feeling more deeply on all fronts of my life. Feeling very grateful.

By amazing coincidence as I started to look for a new job, someone I'd fleetingly worked with called me to ask if I wanted to join the brand name ad agency that he worked for. It felt like being called up from the minors to the majors. I'm neither young, nor old, but realized that this may be my one shot at breaking it in the world of big city advertising. It's been six months and although I'm still finding my feet and things don't always come easy, I'm grateful that the call came in and that I answered. PS: Isn't t weird that it was dad passing away?

I am very happy to say that since my last set of answers I have started my own cake business - Willowbrook Cakes and Bakes. I started this on 24th November 2013 and in this time I have taken part in a couple of fairs, run a vintage tea party event, donated a cake to charity and had a number of cake orders. I am really proud of all of the hard work I have put in to make this a reality. It's very exciting that I have done this pretty much myself, with the research and setting up. I guess I will just need to wait and see how I can continue to expand this in the future.

I switched from pre-med to pre-dental. This made me anxious at first but I believe was the right decision since I am now able to use my hands more for detailed work since I love art so much!

This year has been interesting. While a lot of the things that I had wanted to happen from the last time I did this didn't, a lot of things did. I didn't move out, I didn't propose to Kelly, I don't have my own show and I'm much more broke then I was a year ago. I did quit my job at FiOS though! This year has been hectic and trying and weird and to pick one significant experience is difficult but the one that may have effected me the MOST was the production of Patrick Noth's My Posse. Back in November 2013, Kevin and I were recommended by Phil Jackson to shoot a music video for Patrick Noth. This was the biggest production I had been asked to do (at the time) and it jump started where I am right now. My Posse was a huge undertaking. It had a massive cast and a bunch of locations, but the song was awesome and Patrick was great, so we did it, and we fuckin nailed it. When we shot the video I was still working at Push Pause and man oh man was I low. I mean drink till I blacked out low. At this point I was missing deadlines getting into massive arguments with producers and generally hating myself . Despite all that, I was still offered a contract extension. Finality speaking, I should have taken it and hinesite is 20/20. The problem was that I just made My Posse. I just spent a month prepping and shooting a project that my whole heart was in with a group of people who had similar goals and aspirations. I got a taste of what was possible, and doing anything that didn't lead to that was dumb. The day Posse came out I went with Kevin to see Willy perform improv at the Magnet. The view count on the video was slowly creeping up and I was feeling good. I had to make the call if I was going to extend my contract with Push Pause and all though I needed the money, my heart couldn't take the thought of another year. After Willy's show we went to Mustang Sally's for a few drinks. It was around 11pm and the video was around 500 views. I've made a lot of video all doing about the same but I never felt as confident or proud of them. I looked at Kevin and said "if this breaks 1k views by tomorrow morning, I'll quit my job." Before we left the bar that number was hit, and I kept my word. I did not re-up at Push Pause and since then I have had a bunch of amazing opportunities. From that video I got an internship at UCBComedy. That was in January. I've since AD'ed a few projects for them including Gary Saves the Graveyard where for 2 weeks we shot over nights in Pennsylvania. I've gotten to make other great projects with other amazing UCB performers and I got to go to LA for a week to shoot more Mr.Popular. I'm now on a UCB Digital team as a Senior Producer, I work at UCB as the equipment manager and all of this stemmed from making that one music video. I make a lot less money, I'm about to loose my health insurance, and my relationship is kinda rocky, but I get to work in comedy, be around insanely funny people and collaborate with them. I'm doing great. The short answer to this question is "A significant experience that has happened in the past year was shooting My Posse and quitting my job. It led to an insane amount of excellent opportunities, I'm super grateful and I'm inspired to keep going."

I quit using anti-conception. I did this because I was feeling down, for almost 4 years I recall when reading back my previous answers. I had no energy, I had tantrums, I couldn't balance or control my emotions. I got bored easily. Quiting anti-conception is probably one of the best choices I made over the last years. I might have a little more problems, use condoms and check them every time I have sex with my partner. A little more menstruation pain. A bit of weight gain, my skin getting greasy. But. And this is a big but, I have less tantrums. When I have them, I notive them myself and can get out of them myself. I am less moody. I am happy more often. I have less headaches. My body seems to like it more. Most of all my partner sees a lot difference in the person I used to be and the person I am now.

It has been a year of losses. We moved from our dream home...nothing grand but a place we had made truly ours...home in a profound sense of the word. It seemed time to right-size for our age and we were escaping the tyranny of a neighbor with whom there was no longer any reasoning. We moved six months after my chemo for a second cancer and while waiting to see if my daughter would qualify for disability at 42. Shortly after the move, I found one of my heart bypasses from 2011 had failed. Three months later my beloved sister-in-law died of cancer and a favorite cousin now has only a brief time left since his cancer has spread into his bones. It is likely, my oncologist tells me, that my cancers are genetically linked. So my cousin's outcome is sobering. We are two of four in our generation with cancer. All of this has led to a year of grief for me. It feels as if I barely get up off my knees when something else knocks me over. I have put much of this grief in writing, especially poetry and I have also sought help from my physician and a therapist. And I have made progress. I still laugh a lot. I love intensely. I get through my days with some joy. But there is a dark place of loneliness and despair in the woods where I go at times. These experiences have opened up a great deal of reflection for me on larger questions. I think about so much preoccupation with mortality, what to make of it. I examine my role in the lives of people I love, especially how to set boundaries that are healthy. I search for what should inspire gratitude in my life, the Buddhists' "my-barn-has-burned-down-and-now-I-can-see-the- moon-rise." I search for meaning and purpose as I approach my 70s, for the "what now?" in my fourth quarter. I try to focus more on being fully engaged in moments. And I write about all of these reflections, in part to explore, in part to remember and in part with hope to grow from here.

I got a second dog. Holy shit, life is wild with her in it. I'm a bit resentful of her never-ending need to destroy my house, a bit inspired by her excitability, relieved that she came into my home to be a friend to my first dog. Overall, i'm grateful to have her. I've laughed harder at this dog than I've laughed at anything for years. She's taught me good parenting (my first dog was easy). She taught me responsibility (again, my first dog was easy). I joked about giving her back. But she's a part of me. I can't wait to get her hiking, camping, hunting, swimming, all of those things that she was made for. I love her.

I was struck my a terrible health problem and I was very unhappy and going through pain

The past year has been bittersweet to say the least. I graduated from my masters program (with a 4.0 - woohoo). I moved to Nashville immediately after graduation. I moved into Justin's apartment (note the emphasis on Justin’s apartment and not “our”), just like we planned. The moment that we drove away, towards our new life in Nashville, I knew that I was not moving with the right person, although I knew I was moving to the right state. I started my new job in February. For as along as I have been using 10Q, my goal has always seemed to be offered a job I dreamed of. It feels so good to have finally reached that goal. Not only am I doing exactly what I went to school to do, but I absolutely LOVE my job. It's fun because I do repetitive tasks but they seem to somehow always be different since they are always for different shows. It's a position that I get to be creative in and am learning from so many people that have extensive experience in the industry. Exploring Nashville has been amazing. I am inspired by the creativity in the city and look forward to continue making the city my own. I broke up with Justin in April and although at the time it was hard to make the decision because I didn't know at the time if I was making the right one - at the moment, I know it is the best thing that I could have done. The relationship was so toxic. Moving into my own apartment has been the best experience I’ve ever given myself. I am learning so much about myself and learning to be okay alone. I am enjoying decorating my apartment and making it my own. To answer this question, there is no one significant experience since so much has happened, as it is obvious in my answer. However, I am ultimately grateful for how everything has happened because I am finally free and living the life I've always wanted. I may not be living it with someone right now (and who knows when that will be) but I've become the person I've always wanted to be and I couldn't be more proud of myself.

In June I was in New York waiting in line to go see Shakespeare in the Park's Much Ado About Nothing. I had just been caught in a heavy rainstorm, and took shelter on a bench under a tree dripping water. I ran through the rain to the theater and huddled under the eaves. Just as I was about to go into the play, my phone rang. It was my mother calling to say that my dad had been in a motorcycle accident. My heart stopped and I bust into tears. I was soaking wet and cold and 3,000 miles away from home, and more importantly, my father who was at that moment lying in the hospital with scrapes and bruises and a broken ankle. His bike was a mess of twisted metal and there was no way for me to be with him. He was so sad- his favorite escape in the world, riding for endless hours on the windy backroads of my hometown, was ripped away from him with one miscalculated wipe out. And he wouldn't be able to walk all summer- he wouldn't be able to swim in the river, or go bike riding, or on long hikes in the mountains. And he would be dependent on my mother to care for him for months. I was so far away, and felt so lonely- I was angry at him for coming so close to death, angry at myself for not being there for him, disappointed that I wouldn't be able to ride with him ever again, and hateful of my own selfishness in his pain. And, yet again, death was spinning toward me, the shadow that I used to nightmare about was hovering over him. I was so grateful that he was alive, and so shocked at the closeness of horror at the fringes of my life. I don't know what I hope will be reality when I read this- will he be back on the bike? Riding through the falls colors to the river? Will he have another dream he unravels n the long afternoons?

Habo shnat was the most significant experience that as happened in the past year! It is an experience I'm not just happy and grateful I had, but so so relieved. I thought I was living such a happy and meaningful life before I discovered Habo, but then I became aware of how much more one's life can be enriched by a youth movement gap year. It deeply saddens me to think how many Jewish kids will never experiences the feelings, thoughts, emotions and relationships I have developed from being in a youth movement and going on a shant program!!

My husband has always wanted children. I thought I did too, in the beginning. But there was a period when I was quite resistant to the idea, knowing that it will completely change our lives in ways we couldn't imagine. I changed my mind again eventually - blame it on the maternal instinct. I fell pregnant the first time we tried. And lost it as quickly as it happened. It was very early in the pregnancy. We told each other it's okay, we'll get there another time. But we both felt disappointed. I blamed myself for a while and felt weak as a woman. We've been trying to conceive since, to no avail. Whatever hopes we had in the beginning have been replaced by doubts. We don't really talk about it now. I have an appointment next week with a doctor, I'll be bringing all the tests we've both underwent and see what he says. That's the general spirit I guess, and the answer I give people when they ask when we are going to have children: 'We'll see what happens.'

In the midst of a pile of unhappy, I graduated from law school. I would say that this degree was little different than my undergraduate with regards to my distaste for much of the pedagogical efforts of the faculty; thankfully there were a number of professors who managed both to inspire and challenge. I don't feel good about having graduated. It just is, and I'm glad it's over. I do feel that the degree is worth having, and both the knowledge and great opportunity gained from the process of obtaining the degree are, as yet, untested.

Hearing the sun tell me to go to on retreat to Hawaii, meeting my soul family, moving from my country, letting go of secure job, coming to California. SO grateful for incredible journey exponential growth and healing and expansion on ALL levels.

Nina was born. Everything changed. So much love. So little sleep. Our family and extended is so much more vibrant and involved. Our world socially is smaller and tighter. Sean is such an amazing partner. Dakota is figuring it out. Nina is wonderful and wacky and different every day. I am feeling exhausted and essential.

Um, I had a baby. I am....incredibly thankful, awed, and hugely overwhelmed.

I started therapy again. It continues to affect me today, as more painful memories seem to be percolating upwards. I don't know that I can say I'm grateful, but I think it's a good thing that I may be able to get this pain/poison out of me.

I fell in love and had some dramatic relationships with men that led me to do some real emotional work and get better and clearer about what it is I want and who I want to be with. I was resentful, but now I'm grateful and optimistic.

The birth of our daughter is as significant as it gets. She is as awesome and amazing as it gets! I am beyond grateful and relieved (and tired) to have her in my life. In her first five months of life she has made me realize that no task is impossible or too difficult to handle. Maybe she hasn't made me realize it, but she's made me want to prioritize this. From not putting little tasks aside for the following day and just doing them right away to accomplishing big picture life goals and wanted changes. I hope to act on this realization this coming year.

This past year has been a hard one with both ups & downs again. I am praying that my hubby can land a job that will be on where he can grow. The last one laid him off after 15 months.

I got offered a job at work and after I had jumped through all the hoops the role was taken away. It upset me but showed me the type of company I was at and gave me the belief I could get a better role somewhere else (that was also better) Now I have been offered that job at a better company I feel relieved and glad that it happened.

I found out that I've got a gene disorder that will kill me. It's had an amazing focusing effect on my life choices, at least. And it's made pretty clear to me that my partner is a good and caring one.

- Hand injury healed- grateful and relieved. - Finally started working in the nonprofit sector (EA over summer and now at SASF as of August)- mixed feelings, happy to get a foot in the door but itching to do more meaningful, people-oriented work. - Finished reading Seven Habits of Highly Effective People- inspired and motivated to try to implement at least some of it. - Applied for fellowships and internship (MJE, PT, Big Duck)- although I did not end up getting them the application processes forced me to rethink my values and aspirations, personally and professionally.

I became very comfortable with being single for the first time in my life. I feel happy and content with myself for the first time in my life.

This year I moved around the globe. I saw more of the world this year than any previous and I made friends in everywhere I went. It was incredible. I also lost my grandmother and my cousin. It really hurts saying goodbye. It is really hard. I guess it was a year of extreme highs and extreme lows and continuous instability. If anything, I am learning the only stability I have is inside of myself. And I need to trust myself more

I've gotten my own apartment for the first time, and furnished and decorated it. I have a car, I've made really strong connections with my family, and I'm a manager now at work. I also just went back to school. It's been hectic and stressful but taught me a lot too. I still struggle but it's getting easier.

I moved to spain, so that was a huge culture shock! I was so homesick in the beginning but it is finally feeling like home, even though I am now starting over in mallorca instead of madrid. I am grateful for this opportunity and feel lucky to have the opportunity to teach without having a teaching degree (apart from my TEFL) and to be able to travel. I am not making a lot of money, so financially it can be tough, but I know this is the only chance I really will have in my life to do something like this so I am trying not to worry about what I will do next year!

My daughter growing up so quickly has been incredible to watch. Just a year ago, she couldn't even sit up or roll over. Now she's about to walk. And, she understands so much of what I say, and chooses to ignore half of it :) It's just amazing. The other major change is that my client hired me half-time. That's been great -- I have benefits, which is really nice, and I'm back in an office.

My sister's death. I'm devastated that I lost her, blessed to have had her, grateful for the support I have had, and surprised by the reserves of strength I didn't know I had.

Realizing I am a Nine on the enneagram. It made so many pieces of my personality and my life fall into place that it was almost dizzying. I understand my patterns (both healthy and unhealthy) a lot more, and for that reason am able to get un-stuck more quickly while having more grace for myself when I’m in an unhealthy place (which usually gets me out of it quicker).

Russ came back into my life. It has been strange, but I am grateful, relieved even, that we have been able to work through our misconceptions. I have been inspired to live life more fully and honestly in my relationships. what if we had been able to communicate back then? We could have been great together. Now, we can be great friends. He understands me better then anyone so far. I suspect Lew will surpass him.

This past year I gave birth to my daughter. She's ten months old now and this experience has been the most life changing event I have yet encountered. No one tells you why having a child is HARD, but it is. People seemed ashamed to admit that being a parent is difficult, challenging, and exhausting. Don't misunderstand me, I love my daughter and my partner but I thought raising a baby was going to be easier than it is. I didn't realize you had to learn how to relinquish your body (breastfeeding) and undivided attention entirely to another human being. No one told me you would feel used up like a natural resource that's being taxed at an unsustainable rate by your child. On top of which, your partner is still needing and demanding the same amount of attention and the needs of your body as well. I felt drained for the first six months physically and emotionally. I struggled with being a mom and not being able to focus on my career or anything to do with the likes and desires of my former self sans a child. It was maddening to not have the energy to keep up with the most basic functions of an adult such as keeping a clean house, doing chores, or walking the dogs. I never knew how much I would resent my partner for his lack of help (it wasn't his fault he couldn't breastfeed) but I resented the fact he slept in the middle of the night and I couldn't. I resented everything about him sometimes and get into these awful one up games with who did what for our baby last. But it all changes slowly. Soon you don't mind the beds not made because it's more fun playing with your daughter. You become okay with the sacrifices you make and you learn to love your partner again. Your body learns how to live everyone and adjusts to their attention needs. It all seems less hard and that's because it is. It's still not easy being a mom, but I've learned how to do a little bit better each month.

Someone I desperately liked, liked me in return. For a brief moment in recent history I was able to live what felt like a fantasy. Until she dumped me.

I had a VBAC with my second child after a grueling, abnormally long labor. While it was the most painful, physically (and possibly mentally) challenging experience of my life, I was euphoric afterwards. I've never felt so empowered and strong. If I can do that, I can do anything.

I'm grateful to be in a relationship that will last the rest of my life with an amazing man. I'm also grateful that my grandfather made it through brain surgery at the age of 89 - and that it has significantly improved his quality of life.

I had a small stroke in August, out of the blue. I have recovered completely, but I am still struggling with my feelings about vulnerability and aging. At the same time. I have been blessed with a number of wonderful events this year, including my son's remarriage, my daugter's engagement, and the impending birth of my first grandchild. I am trying very hard to focus on the positives, which do in fact greatly outnumber the negatives. I hope to get better at it!

This year I entered treatment for my eating disorder at the Eating Recovery Center. It was one of the hardest if not THE hardest decision I've ever had to make. My life was falling apart in June 2014, I was miserable and sick and tired and felt dead inside. I knew intellectually and in my heart I had a lot to live for…family, good friends, a nephew on the way, an exciting life in New York, a good job but I didn't feel it at all, it could have all been in quotes because it was like the outside perception of my world, not what I felt. Making this decision, telling my family and friends and work and everyone…putting myself out there as someone who had fallen THAT low was very hard. I think the 7 weeks I spent at ERC will stay with me forever as one of the most impactful experiences of my life. My heart is FILLED with the most intense gratitude on being able to go there, covered by insurance, to meet the most incredible people, learn about who I really am and how I might actually be able to live a life free of an eating disorder and be happy and healthy again. I am grateful for the support of my family, work and friends. I don't think I'm relieved (YET)…I'm almost scared in a sense of what happens if this doesn't work, what happens if I relapse. I can't even imagine myself going to treatment again. It's like a sink or swim situation…like I'm done it, now this has to work and I don't know what I'll do if it doesn't. I'm a little resentful in that I have gained the weight I have to do and I'm not acting on disordered behaviors but I'm still not that happy yet. I'm having trouble FEELING the good out of it yet. Sometimes I think "okay, I've gained all this weight, close to 20 pounds, now I'm meant to be happy, right?!?" I can accept it's a process and that instant gratification won't lead me to long term satisfaction. I am incredibly inspired by this whole experience…by the amazing souls that I shared that journey with, the incredible people who stood by my side and walked through the shit with me. It didn't make me feel alone and makes me want to live my life in a different and better way.

I started my own business. I'm grateful, relieved, inspired, exhausted, sad, scared, amazed - and more. The reaction when I launched was incredible. I had no idea so many people would be so supportive. I was so happy to be free and in control! It's also been a load of hard work, which has been, well, hard. It's hard to prioritise, and I second guess myself all the time. It's been lonely. I've had young voices reactivate to try to keep me safe. So I guess I'm grateful that I'm learning so much and moving forward so far.

Seeing a rainbow BENEATH me. It might sound trivial, but it WAS inspiring, and memorable.

My Dad's death. It was like I spent my whole life waiting for something significant to happen - but when it did it was the most terrible, painful, horrific thing that could have come. He meant so much to me, we were connected and he was a very special father. He suffered immeasurably with Motorneurone Disease for years leading up to his death. I was fortunate/unfortunate enough to be there in the house the night he died and I spent his last week with him and mum, I'm so grateful for that. How did it affect me? in a way I could not have predicted. Yes a huge wave of grief, sense of isolation (can't really talk with my Mum or siblings the way I could with my Dad). One positive effect was that I started to live. I started to care for my body, I started to take pride in my appearance (the way he always took care of himself). Small things like lipstick could change my whole demeanour. I've been exercising, running, acupuncture, massage. I am nurturing myself because of Dad. Post traumatic growth.

I did really well in my second year of university, way better than first year. I am not sure what changed in my mind, but it all fell together for me. I cried after getting my marks in Fall semester last year - I was so happy because academics have never been my strong suit and finally after so long, and with a good amount of effort - I did it. Anyone can do it really. Doing well only gives me higher expectations for myself because now I know what I'm capable of.

I found out last December that my parents were separated. They had been separated physically for five years, but had not told anyone about it. My dad had an affair with his long time friend five or six years ago and my mom found out about it. They kept it a secret until right before Christmas so that we would not be surprised when Ashby and I came home for Christmas. We ended up not going to North Carolina for the holidays, and I actually have not been to my homeplace in almost two years. This has affected me in different ways. I finally see the whole picture with my mother's emotional outbursts over the years, and I also have realized that she chooses to play the victim card. It is heartbreaking to me, but all in all, the greater way it has affected me has been mostly positive. I finally look at my parents as an adult. I can finally look at them and not care whether I am imperfect in my choices. It is relieving and resentful because I have always thought of my dad as being someone who was smart. I now see that he is smart, but he also is very prideful and broken. He is haunted by his own demanding character, and refuses to truly embrace LOVE. He has had to tell his family about his affair and this has really been hard for all of them, especially with my grandparents declining health. While going through all the emotions of anger, sadness and relief, it has also inspired me to seek even more truth in my own ways. It has motivated me to tell my story- no matter what I do RIGHT OR WRONG. I am grateful. I hope that my parents get divorced. I think it is the best thing that could happen to my mom at this point. She is already living in an apartment with a crazy mutt who chews everything. She has gone from one chaos to another, always putting herself through much more than she ever has to. As for my life, it has been awakened and shaken even more because of this event. I am grateful.

Wow. You wouldn't believe how long it took me to think of something. I feel like a lot of the time, when I actually force myself to look back on the year as a whole, nothing really jumps out at me. Maybe I'm doing life wrong. I guess if I had to label some event in my life this year as "significant," I'd maybe say finding Dan Howell's YouTube channel. Not that I'm not already addicted to the Internet and to YouTube enough, but it's funny how I was surfing YouTube and accidentally clicked on his channel page about two months ago, and now he's probably my favorite YouTuber. I guess I'm grateful. Grateful that I stumbled across a YouTuber whose content I don't just enjoy, but relate to in many ways. It's nice, knowing that there are other people out there who experience just as many awkward moments as you do, and who might share some of your stranger habits.

I tried to get a loan at the bank to pay off one of my debts from a company charging me a high interest rate. The bank refused. Of course I'm resentful. I'm also increasingly worried that I'm going to get hauled into court by this company because I'm having trouble making minimum payments and they are averse to working with me.

Moving out on my own was a game-changer for me. "Live on my own in a big city" has always been one of those things on my "list" since I was a young girl. "Go away for college," "Start my own business," "Treat my parents to a special dinner," "Live on my own in a big city," the list goes on and on. So when I moved from Manhattan to Brooklyn...and into a two-bedroom apartment on my own last fall...this was a major milestone in my life. I was scared, but also empowered. Many times I found myself thinking to myself, "So I am really doing this?" "Was this the right decision?" "Will I be lonely?" "Will my friends come and visit me all the way out here?" This new adventure and experience woke me up from the life I had been living for the past five years in Manhattan. Not only did everything change around me, but to my surprise, I felt myself changing too. I felt more courageous and empowered than every before. I approach challenges and new experiences with a different attitude. I felt more open to the world. Pushing myself out of my comfort zone was an important reminder to me that taking chances, embracing fears, and doing something just for YOU helps you grow as a person and truly learn more about yourself and what you are capable of.

This has been an extremely significant year in my life. I cannot narrow my experiences down to just one. I changed jobs (grateful and happy), we bought our first house (relieved, grateful, and inspired), and we got married this past Saturday, 10/4/14 (overjoyed, grateful). I guess you could say the theme this year is "grateful." I have had many blessings bestowed on me this year, and it has brought my (husband!) and I even closer together.

We got Bobo! Alex had wanted a dog since before he moved in (December) and I said we had to wait until the warm weather. We waited until spring, and then started our search for a rescue dog. We had a few fits and starts, failed attempts, frustrations, etc. On Pride Day I was having lunch with Mark, and he showed me a picture of a cute little puppy in Macon Georgia that his friends were fostering. We got a video to make sure he wasn't a crazy puppy (he wasn't), put in an application, hoped, prayed, waited, and finally received word that we were chosen! We picked him up July 4th, a rainy rainy Friday, and Alex worked Saturday and Sunday. I wasn't prepared for how much peeing and pooping a 10 week old puppy does. That first weekend was exhausting (and many times since). But he's adorable, a good puppy, very sweet, loving, and has made us each individually happy, and happy as a couple. He's been a wonderful addition to our lives.

I made a commitment to focus on a relationship that ultimately wasn't the best match. When it ended I was relieved but sad to lose my friendship and my role as a parent. I learned that you can't take people for granted and that regardless of what you have going on personally or with your career that partners who love you and 9-year olds who look up to you are much more important. I'm relieved that I don't have to change or let go to make the relationship work but I'm frustrated that I wasted my partner's time and my own. I'm inspired to move forward more honestly keeping truth close to my chest.

Within the past year I have been incredibly blessed with a multitude of events. After being inspired by my friend who isn't a runner and who signed up for the Paris Marathon, I decided that it was a great idea to sign up for a marathon myself. Of course one of the first ones that caught my eye was the Patagonian International Marathon in Patagonia Chile. When I told Andy about it he seemed extremely excited and thats where the training and running of my very first marathon started. I was extremely grateful to be able to travel to one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and to be able to be healthy enough to run the race as well as hike the stunning landscape afterwards. All with my new fiance, yes fiance! About a month before we headed down to Patagonia the love of my life proposed to me while we were in Seattle. He got down on one knee in the middle of the St. James Cathedral and said a bunch of words I didn't comprehend, and I think I said yes as he proposed to me with a blue wax ring which was a mould of the actual ring he would later on give to me the week we leave for Patagonia. Both of these experiences were absolutely incredible and only a preview of the amazing event to come on February 1st, 2014. On that brisk February morning, in between two snowstorms surrounded by hundreds of friends and family we were married! I will never ever forget the feeling that I felt as I walked down the aisle. I was extremely overwhelemed when the doors of the church opened- the very church we met at, and I saw the pews FILLED with family and friends from literally all over the world. I was so overwhelemd with such pure love that when I cried I couldn't contain it so I snuffed the tears with my bouquet. And then being able to be wed with my now husband in front of all those people and under God.... that was an amazing experience this year I will never ever forget.

I did lots of dating in the past year, and though only a few of them turned into semi-relationships, I learned so much about myself and how I/how to relate to people because of it. I like dating people from diverse backgrounds because I learn such interesting things from them about worldviews/politics/religion. Out of the maybe 15-20 people I went on dates with, I think of the grand majority of them with much fondness, and even those who I don't I learned something from too. It made me excited to keep dating, feel like its okay to be picky, not worry so much about 'falling in love', and know that I am good at meeting new people. If I move to a new place I know that I will be alright forming new relationships now (except for maybe on baby St Eustatius). Oh, also I had lots of sex, most of it pretty darn good.

This year, I fell in love. Real love. The kind of love you grow into. Comfortable, and yet still exciting. Love that pushes me every day to want to be better. For me, and for him.

I moved out of the house i'd shared with my sister for 3years to move in with friends. While the situation isn't what I'd planned on or hoped for due to one of the friends unexpectedly moving out of state, it's working out well.

My mother died and my first feeling was relief. Then I was sad at the distance that has been between us for my entire life. It was hard reliving the abuse that she and my brother did to me. It put me in a dark, angry place and I lashed out at people who loved me. I reminded myself of my mother at her worst. I've worked hard to turn the corner again and move on. I've got a little sadness left and a bit of worry that one of my brothers will try calling me again, or sue me, or harass me. I'm a little afraid but I'll work on letting it go, knowing that I can't worry about what may never happen, and that I'll find the strength to deal with them if it comes to that.

'Became' a Hypnotherapist . I'm grateful & inspired that I followed my dream x :)

Living in the dorms! I've met some awesome, crazy, amazing people and they have helped make my college experience better! I also have a roommate who often pisses me off, but it's teaching me patience and to accept that everyone is different and has different ways of doing things and I can move past this and be a more responsible adult in the end. Also I became a BeachBody coach and while I'm not anything higher than a coach, I'm so excited to help my business grow and to be reporting how I've been doing this next year! Also it helped me change my habits, which works for a good while, but then I fall off the wagon. My goal is to get break the habit!

My daughter got married. It was very moving, emotional and touched me deeply -- a huge milestone. AND -- she and her husband did it so well -- so meaningful and so much fun.

I suppose my significant experience has been my 1 year anniversary of working in the same place... It's a weird feeling, but it has made me feel quite confident in my job. I'm having a tough time being a leader, but I hope I can change that

This past summer Aden proposed to me at Pride. He told me I was getting a puppy but really got down on one knee and asked to "travel through Space and time with me" and gave me a note about his love for me. It was amazing and I said yes. We walked through the parade holding signs that said "I asked my partner to marry me" and "I said yes". It was exciting, overwhelming, and uplifting. It was a great day surrounded by great friends.

My wonderful dog, Teddy passed away just 2 weeks ago. It has had a profound effect on me. I feel so grateful. Grateful to have had such a long wonderful relationship with him. I'm grateful that I was there for him in his final moments. I'm relieved that he's no longer suffering. And I'm so inspired to let Teddy's passing (like the sound of the shofar) serve to shatter the complacency that has crept into my life.

I felt weirdly lucky to get Evan's old job at CSJ. That was a seriously significant event. I also made good, good teen friends at NYJT this year. I think I may know that group for a long, long time. AND we started the Hootenanny's! How many years has it been since Chris M and I sat down at New Year's and played a bunch of songs in his living room?! And now we have people to sing with. And I am starting to play mandolin! So, so inspiring and fun. It's easier than I thought :) Just finding the chords is easy, I mean, not being able to pick like a pro :)

On Nov. 8th, 2013, along with my business partner, Brenda Schultz, I purchased Niche Boutique. I'm beyond grateful for the opportunity that without Brenda, I would never have even been able to consider. It's truly changed my life path in ways that I never would have predicted. It's been a roller coaster of lessons learned the hard way, & many sleepless nights, but I fall more in love with this new endeavor every day.

My father died. We had a great relationship, no regrets but it was so quick. I never thought that it would hit me like this. I don't know if it was the suddenness - he was healthy as far as we knew, he had recently traveled with Mom, he was still working at 85, or the shortness of the illness - less than two and a half months, or the fact that I am now doing so much caretaking of my mom, but it is so present, and I miss him so much. Now I keep aging and he will stay the same. We had a great run but I am human and greedy and I wanted more time.

I got made redundant. I didn't expect it to affect me as much as it did - after all, I still have work for another couple of years, and I was planning to move on in that time anyway. But suddenly I felt (and still feel) like the business was saying I had no value, and that really hurt.