‘Tis the season for reminiscing about the year gone by. There’s a fun hashtag, of course, and an infinite amount of images of inspirational quotes against inspiring backgrounds. Most of these, I’m not afraid to admit, have inspired in me little more than an eye roll. There is one, however, that (pun completely intended) caught my eye: "I am thankful for nights that turned into mornings, friends that turned into family, and dreams that turned into reality."
This particular tidbit is optimal: seasonal only when necessary, with the added benefit of simplicity. Too much of my life this year has been complicated, beginning with my schedule, and there is nothing like a fresh new calendar year to remind oneself to take a minute. It’s been a year of serious ups and downs, but I like to save my complaining for the things that can be helped, so let’s just stick with the ups.
I have made so much progress in my singing in the past year, and have had incredible performance opportunities, from my first title role to my East Coast debut to a delightful visit to (Trouble in) Tahiti.
In the real world, I’ve spent a few days each in Yosemite, New York, New Jersey, Boston, Washington D.C., and Chicago, as well as a month in Philly and this past week here at Donner Lake. I’ve made new friends and grown closer with the old, and spent some delightful times with my family. I’ve become SFCM’s first-ever Student Council Chair, and have earned a year of straight As in true Lowell style. I’ve worked very hard and even played a bit, and the nights, sleepless and otherwise, have indeed turned into mornings.
As I continue to grow and work to turn my dreams into reality, I want to take this time to thank everyone who has been a part of my journey thus far. Thank you to those who make me happy, and to those who make me stronger. Thank you to those who teach me, and to those who inspire me to learn. Thank you to those who believe that my goals are worth every sacrifice. To all of you, thank you, and a very merry 2015. I hope that all of your nights lead to the most beautiful sunrises, and that you give yourself permission to gather strength from each and every one.
So, #hello2015. I can’t wait to see what happens next.