So, what has 2013 taught me? Well, I guess taught isn’t the right word to use since I’ve already known these things…so, reassured me? Ok, that might be the word I’m looking for.

2013 reassured me that I have an amazing support system. I know this sounds redundant because lately I’ve been saying I have the best support system in my life, but it’s ok. I’ll never get tired of saying or knowing that. Without them, I’d probably be spiraling down a black hole.

2013 reassured me that my mom is truly the strongest woman I will ever know in my life. Time after time, year after year, problem after problem, she still manages to live life every day with a smile. To still care for others regardless of how many people have screwed her over. To keep waking up every morning even though her baby isn’t here with us. Nothing is worse than hearing year after year that, “This was not my year. This was a bad year. ” Regardless of it all, she is still the most amazing, selfless woman.

2013 reassured me that there are awful people in the world. Is it bad to say that there will probably always be bad people in the world? As if it wasn’t bad enough to hear and read all of the stories of things people are doing to one another, it’s even worse when it happens to you or someone close to you. Bullying still exists and it still happens for no reason. People pick on others for what? Especially those that they know absolutely nothing about. Did they ever take the time to get to know him? Did they know how sweet, kind, wise, and funny he was? No. Because people like to judge and treat others with disrespect for nothing or for petty things. So, 2013 reassured me that regardless of what you think you know or regardless of the stupid reasons why you don’t like someone, just respect them. Be kind to one another. You never ever know what kind of battle they are going through.

2013 reassured (reminded?) me to get to know someone. Make friends. Give someone a chance. Get to know more about the people you already know. Appreciate each other’s presence. You never know. You may be missing out on a beautiful friendship. Trust me, I’ve had many people pass judgement on me before they even said one word to me. Decided who and what I was at first glance. My relationships with others have grown and became stronger this year, without a doubt.

2013 reassured me that I can never lose sight of who I am. For a little, I was a very confused person. More than now. Even with the support system I have, I must also remind myself of who I am and who I strive to be. I am strong. I must not lose faith. I am a hardworker and I will keep working hard. I will continue to care for others. I will continue to be a positive person. I am…I will…I can.

So, one thing that 2013 did teach me. Time does not heal all wounds. Some wounds are just too deep. Too far beyond repair. With this situation, every day I get sadder, but every day is a new day. With every new day, there can still be happiness. There is still life.