This tumultuous year was rough, so I took a well-deserved writing break. Everything felt out of control, and I needed some time to focus on my mental wellness. I'm ready to move on and write with renewed clarity and confidence.

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I turned 65 in 2024, and it hit me harder than I thought. It reminded me that now is the time to start working on my dreams. I acknowledge that there’s more life behind me than ahead, and if I'm fortunate enough to live to a ripe old age, I’ll have plenty of time to break more glass ceilings and strive for greater heights as both an advocate and a human being. If not now, when?

Society holds varying views on aging, and I am committed to changing these perspectives in any way I can. It's unreasonable to suggest that we, particularly women, are no longer relevant as we age. That’s why I applaud all the influencers over 60 who promote pro-aging messages. We must embrace our identities at every age and recognize that we still matter and contribute significant value to the world.

(Check out my friend Sandra Sallin who is an 84-year-old rock star influencer promoting pro-aging in fun and fascinating ways!) 

Dealing with age, multiple sclerosis (MS), and other health issues makes it challenging for me to be as productive as I once was. Some days, I struggle to get out of bed, while others, cognitive fog prevents me from accomplishing everything I want. It's frustrating, but I'm doing my best to accept the unpredictability of secondary progressive MS.

In 2024, I learned a powerful lesson: internalizing emotional baggage takes a toll on the body and mind. As Marianne Williamson said, "The deepest wounds are often invisible." To remove the baggage, I've journaled, spoken to a therapist, and worked on living in the moment and not in the past or future. Are you doing anything to battle emotional baggage? I'd love to hear about it!

My New Year's wish is to incorporate the lessons I've learned this year to help me become more assertive and wiser. Adversity teaches us that we grow from what we endure.

“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”  - Helen Keller

Here are a few things we should focus on in the coming year. I hope you agree:

Love - To be surrounded by people who love us, whether sick or well, and understand that looking good doesn't necessarily mean we're feeling well. You can't see invisible illness.

Friendship - It's a blessing to have true friends. I hope none of mine grow tired of my need to cancel plans. I've missed many opportunities to socialize and attend important professional events because of illness. I'm hoping that by practicing self-care techniques, I can minimize the need to cancel plans in the future. Life is too short to miss out on anything!

Wellness - This term is often overused, but it accurately reflects my goal.  I want to feel well again. I want to have days where I don't even think about illness. Do you experience this hope, too?

The isolation that comes with a disability is absolute and significantly affects mental wellness. Being sick can create feelings of sadness, being left behind, and loneliness and that is NOT fun at all.

My self-care plan to combat negative emotions includes meditation, chair yoga, acupuncture, painting, knitting, spending time outdoors, and immersing myself in the beauty of nature. I hope this plan will help me manage my negative emotions. What are your plans for the new year?

Kindness, Compassion, and Forgiveness - I try to maintain kindness and compassion when someone does not support me. I strive to forgive those who have been unkind or uncaring. I've learned that forgiveness does not always need to be expressed verbally. Forgiveness can help release pent-up anger and anxiety, which is very beneficial for your health. The only path to inner peace is through forgiving both others and yourself.

"Forget what hurt you but never forget what it taught you."~Sharon Adler

Move forward -Letting go of past hurts is essential for moving forward. There's also grief. The loss of a loved one, a pet, or a broken relationship can be excruciating, making us question whether we will ever be able to heal. It's important to understand that the grieving process is unique to each individual and can take as long as needed. While it's true that things will never be the same, eventually, we must push ahead to thrive. Ultimately, we aim to survive and find a way to live fully again. Learn to let go of what no longer serves you well.

Gratitude - I'm deeply grateful for the unconditional love and support of friends and family. I appreciate every reader of An Empowered Spirit and hope that the experiences and information I share on the blog inspire you to reflect on your own life and motivate you to be your best, fabulous self. Let's readjust our crowns, eh?

Thank you for being a wonderful part of my life and accompanying me on my crazy journey. I wish you a joyful, healthy, and prosperous 2025! Wishing peace and good health to everyone.