The Last Few Breaths of 2009

So here we are, at another end of the year. Another year older, another year wiser, hopefully.

I've learnt so much this year. About others, about myself... well, basically just about humanity in general.

I've learnt that it's okay to say "No". I've always been a very obliging person.

But I've learnt that saying "No" doesn't make you bad, or any less nice.

Sometimes you have to say "No" for your own sake, for your own health. How can one expect to help others, or make others happy, when he himself is in need of help? It's not impossible to do so, but being in a state of on a 'whole' enables one to better spread joy to others around.

It's also okay to say "No" because the people who should and do matter, will eventually understand. Of course we should never take them for granted. But generally, they do understand. Others that simply can't or won't understand and conversely give you grief for it... well, maybe it's time to do some relationship pruning. I'm just sayin', you know?

I've also learnt that relationships are dynamic. They are constantly evolving and moving all the time. And it takes efforts to maintain a relationship. Until we realise that, none of our relationships are going to be lasting. Be it between family, friends or lovers. It all require efforts. Just to come home for dinner, and have a meal together, even if it's for that one or two hours. Just a chill session over coffee with old friends. Just time out for the two of you. It all require efforts. It all requires a certain time commitment. And we have to specially set aside time for that. Because it's important. Because it's what makes us, essentially human.

So yes, my new year resolution is to have more balance in my life. To set aside more time for the people whom I care for. To see them happy. If I can achieve this, then yes, I think it is a type of success too. And I think, maybe, just maybe, this might be the secret to happiness.

Then again, being a Libra.. it seems so difficult to balance.

Anw, happy 2010 in advance everyone.