Closing the Doors to 2016 & Opening the Doors to 2017: Reflections & Contemplations

New Year’s Eve takes us back with feelings of nostalgia and reflection for another year that has passed, as well as the excitement for what the new year has in store for us all. It is something that is normally started with the hope of self-improvement and rebirth. It’s only natural to anticipate new beginnings and opportunities as the new year unfolds, whether that means improving one’s health, acquiring a new skill, working on your passion or picking up a neglected hobby.

So, we have asked some friends, new and old, to share their personal reflections about how they see themselves as they move into another year, one step closer to achieving their goals.

 

I believe deep down inside that we are all the same, only layered by multiple sources of conditioning since childbirth. A friend used to say to me that the journey of one's life can be said to be one where you're becoming more yourself - may I include that it is a privilege to be embarking on this path. In 2016, I think I  truly began to let go of material pursuit and to seek the path of sustainability.

In 2017, I'd really like to be able to witness myself face the darkest and deepest of my fears, to be vulnerable and peel away the layers of defenses I so quickly put up. I believe in the choice of love over fear and would love to have that manifest fully in the year to come.

- Aly Tashi, Singapore
Currently based in Chiang Mai, Thailand
www.instagram.com/YogaWithAly

 

 

Despite the beautiful places I travelled to, 2016 is probably the worst year of my life by far which really tested my inner strength. I lost two family members in one week. Shortly after, one of my family members was assaulted, and I was very depressed at work. Then I received news of a friend who passed away. 2016 has been a year for me with mostly painful memories, but the fact that I got through it and that it gave me the courage to leave and travel alone like I have always dreamt of doing, to allow my body and mind to heal, and open my heart makes the whole experience more meaningful. This year has been about digging deep into my personal strength to propel me forward. 

In 2017 and onwards, I want to continue growing in the way that I have been recently - letting go of pain, bitterness and loss, opening my heart and pursuing happiness. I would like to explore spirituality and become sustainably healthy. I have been in good shape before but always lacked consistency, I want to find the right wavelength for my body where I can be the happiest and healthiest I have ever been.
- Rhiannon Robertson, England
Currently traveling Thailand
www.TheGypsyHeartTravels.com

- Cherie Julie, Australia
www.TravelForChange.net

 

And there you have it, 2016 reflections and 2017 contemplation from some of our very favorite folks in the GGL traveling network!  Tell us, what will you do in 2017?