life goes on

It’s December, and I’m grateful. I have tasted the bitter to appreciate the sweet like never before, and I am still intact. It’s been a long and torturous year, and I’m glad it’s over soon.

A part of this year’s bittersweet satisfaction comes from the completion of my movie, appropriately titled, Bittersweet Monday. And it’s finally making its festival debut next week at the Bahamas International Film Festival. I’m making a much needed vacation out of this trip; I’m going to soak up some sun. Still jet lagged from my last travel, I’m thinking it might be the optimal way to be because I’m tired just the right amount not to get nervous. My sundresses are packed, and I’m ready to go.

Ironically, my filmmaking was only a very small part of either my tribulations or triumphs this year. It kept me busy here and there, giving me a much needed distraction at times. But mostly, it was relatively trivial, thus taking a back seat in my list of things to do and being postponed for this long. Instead, it’s been all about life and family.

Facing a painful situation completely out of my control, I have relearned the obvious lesson to be grateful in the present. I am also less frightened of the unknown in what is yet to be, grounded in the blessings of now. My appreciation for what is, what has been, and what will be moves me in ways I have not known in the past. The struggle will continue, for that is life. But I feel ready to tackle what’s next.