In Retrospect
Words by RACHEL DORN
Where were you, a year ago? On Copacabana, Rio, with my family. Where are you now? At the desk, work, Sydney, by myself.
Was it what you expected? Did you learn anything, and where do you go from here? These are the questions that haunt us on the eve of every New Year. There’s so much pressure to live each one bigger, better, and with more purpose than the last. Without a doubt this year has definitely been one rich with new experiences but not all have been what I looked forward to on that eve, a year ago, as I watched the sky light up over Copacabana, full of optimism, and wonder at what lie ahead. I have been lucky enough to see some of the world; travel has opened my eyes some and stirred in me a hunger to become aware, sensitive and more sincere. Although, admittingly I am somewhat still the same naïve and dangerously impressionable girl I was a year ago, I have seen happiness despite poverty, experienced beauty in desolate parts of the globe (and in people), been true, and amongst other things, made many mistakes, all of which have scarred and left my skin that bit thicker in some places. I am that bit wiser, more compassionate, honest to myself, but still I enter this new phase anxious of the unknown.
Its to be expected that when you’re young and searching for some kind of meaning, people walk in and out of your life at leisure. Lovers, friends…hold no grudges because they all serve a purpose; they are there to see you grow. I’ve met many amazing, talented, beautiful and inspiring people; a precious handful of which have become friends I will hold dear for life, some are lovers who teach you that nobody is perfect, others teach you to love unconditionally, for to be loved is the only thing that can make one a better person. We all carry regrets; they are proof that we are human, but to dance and laugh and love and be loved is the greatest conciliation for whatever hurt we may feel.
Without sounding preachy (I regret its probably too late for that), this New Year learn to forgive, (but not to forget what you’ve learnt), for chances are whoever’s caused you pain is as lost and confused as you were before you became that little bit wiser. Most importantly give in to love and new experience if you happen to find it, and make it unconditional, there is no greater investment.
