Out with the Old, in with the New

I usually like to take a little time on New Year's Eve to reflect on the year that was and to get motivated about the year that will be. I generally do this at New Year's because I haven't taken the time out during the rest of the year to really pause and reflect - and let's face it, New Year's is a convenient time to do so. However, given the circumstances of the past year (some of which have been described here, others to be left for another day), 2006 was all about reflection and insight. This is not to suggest that I've now got it completely figured out - that would be remarkably arrogant of me (see, insight!) - but I've learned a few things along the rough, rocky road that was 2006:

1. Love the ones you've got while you've still got them: a particularly hard lesson this year, due to the sudden and tragic loss of my brother-in-law in a drunk driving accident last April. Trav, not a day goes by when I don't think about you - we miss you and wish you were still with us.

2. Health above wealth: self-explanatory, I think.

3. Protect the public health care system: although there were a few bumps along the way, the overall level of health care that I received while in the hospital was excellent. I was fortunate to have great nurses, fantastic doctors and the best surgeons around. And I didn't have to worry about whether I had enough private insurance or whether I would have to mortgage my house to cover my treatment. There's something to be said about supporting a public health system that is able to provide a high level of care regardless of a patient's income level.

4. Turning 30 isn't so bad: I'm just happy to be here - although I can't imagine what 40 will feel like...

5. You don't have to be everything to everyone all of the time: otherwise known as letting go of your deeply rooted inner desire to be Superwoman. You probably don't hear much about Superwoman anymore because the stress of having to please everyone likely killed her.

And perhaps the most important lesson of all:

Be thankful for what you have and never take anything for granted

Happy New Year!