Make a good end to a year of shock, tumult and change

By Karen Carnabucci, LCSW, TEP

Here we are, looking at the end of 2017. It has been a tumultuous year for many people -- personally, politically and socially. Depending on where we live and who we are, the happenings of 2017 may still be stirring within our minds, bodies, hearts and spirits.

However, there is still time to make a good end to 2017:
 
Remember all of the painful and difficult experiences that took place this year. There may have been shock, distress and feelings of disbelief. Or perhaps there was great chaos, and feelings of deep disappointment, worry or fear. Write these feelings and experiences in your journal (or on a piece of paper if you don't keep a journal) and say one by one, “I acknowledge and agree that this happened.”

If you wish, light a candle to recognize and acknowledge all of these events.

Breathe. Release your thoughts with your breath. Take time to notice how you feel in your body when you make this acknowledgement.

Then remember all the joyful and wonderful experiences that took place during the year. Feelings of hope, moments of connection and times of strength and inspiration. Write these experiences in your journal and say one by one, “I acknowledge and agree that this happened.” If you wish, light a candle to recognize all these events.
 
Take some time to drop into awareness of your body. Breathe out your thoughts. Notice how you feel in your body when you make this acknowledgement.
 
Say thank you.
 
Pause and breathe.
 
We’re not done yet.

Now, call in the people who love you, or have loved you, past and present. The people who have mentored you. The friends who have celebrated you, who have noticed and remarked on any struggles or difficulties that you have faced in 2017. Those people who have courageously spoken out to tell the truth about their lives.  Those people who have comforted you. The professionals who have guided you. Your ancestors. Your neighbors. Your teachers. Your family. Anyone in your life who has been important to you.
 
Now, blow out your candles. Look forward to 2018.