A Reflection of 2022

Happy 2023! 

I don't have the words for 2023 and my current feelings. While I am excited for the new year and a fresh slate, I'm still grieving 2022. Here's what I mean - so much has happened in 2022, personally and globally. We encountered our second year of COVID-19, multiple gun violence incidents, law changes, and much more. 

While my business excelled, I initiated the closing of a chapter. A chapter that I've known for most of my working life. I decided to chart a new course after much prayer and wise counsel. But, as I approach 2023, it scares me. Did I make the right decision? Am I going in the right direction? What if I fail? What if this and what if that? But only I (and God) can walk down this road. So this weekend, I plan to do some reflection someone shared with me. I plan to process what I'm currently feeling. 

I saw this picture at a consignment shop. Leave a trail. That part stood out to me. Even as I've been a part of a massive group, there was never really a blueprint for me. I always felt different. In middle school, I was an athlete/theater geek. In college, I was the activist/ROTC/sorority gal. In my twenties/early thirties, I was a military officer/Board Member/Church leader/business owner, etc.

This year, I feel like I'm going where there is no path, which is terrifying but exciting in the same breath. One of my friends, Charlynda Scales - the owner of Mutt's Sauce, posted about not racing into 2023 with our resolutions, goals, and habit-changing ideas but sitting and reflecting on 2022. 

If you notice me moving slower than usual, know I'm still processing 2022 and navigating the end of an era. So I need to be honest about my journey. I find that online and especially on social media, we "portray" our highlights, but what about our lowlights or, better yet, our "real lights"? 

This essay isn't prolific about money or children's books but about sharing where I am as a business owner and a human. 

Do you feel like this? If so, share below. I'd love to know.