It is finally here. The ball has dropped, the fireworks have popped, and we finally get to ring in 2018.
I've never been a big fan of New Year's Resolutions. I make them every year, but tend to break them before Valentine's Day. This year however, I want to make a few promises to myself, and to you, in hopes that this year will be different. In addition to making new promises, I want to reflect on what 2017 has brought me, and what I can take into this new year.
The beginning of 2017 was full of new experiences. I was headed into my second semester of college, became an initiated member of my sorority, and saw real snow for the first time. I was feeling more confident in school (and in life), and was ready to take the world by storm.
As the year went on, I was tested both physically and mentally. The return of my back problems, and the loss of a few friends and loved ones, forced me to change my perspectives, and made me stronger than ever.
Throughout the second half of the year, I started my third semester of college, which without a doubt was the most challenging four months of the year, and probably the most stressful portion of school that I have ever encountered. Once again, I was put to the test, and tried my hardest to pull through.
Despite the school stress, I also had many positive moments in this second half of the year. I found the perfect little in my sorority, got to celebrate my younger brother in the first half of his senior year, and even got to experience snow for the second time with my best friends (thank you, crazy Texas weather).
At the end of the day, 2017 gave me successes and failures, smiles and tears, and enough laughter to last a lifetime. It was challenging, rewarding, and was a large influence on the person I am walking into 2018.
With 2018 in full force, I am giving myself a fresh start. I am going to put my health and my schoolwork first, and will pour my heart into everything I do. I will not let the little things stress me, and I won't let the bad days be more than just bad days.
I promise to fully embrace who I am, and to love others the way that they have loved me. I promise to remember all of the little things, and cherish every memory I make throughout the year. I promise to work harder than ever, and to try my best to be the very best version of myself.
I promise to be honest and open-minded. To not only hear, but to listen, and to hold myself accountable for the promise I make to others. I promise to stand tall and be confident in who I am and who I want to be.
I am here today, ready to face the new year head on, and willing to take in all this year has to offer. 2018, bring it on.