I’m Feeling ’22

Dear Reader,

It’s 2022 and I am absolutely struck by how quickly time flies! I am writing this to you as I prepare to go on a six-mile hike at Boston’s Blue Hills Reservation with a local group. Two years ago, I wrote a post about preparing for my first hike with the same group (more here). I told you about how I had never gone on a “real” hike and had to run out and get all the gear just days before the trip. Now, two years later — I’m one of the organization’s many co-leaders!

Given the pandemic situation, we all know that A LOT can happen in a relatively short period of time. Two years ago, I went to Colombia (more here and here). Little did I know that this would be my last “normal” international trip — sans masks! Two years ago, was also when I made a new year’s resolution to “do more.” During this period, I would explore the city and visit local spots every week and participate in activities like pop-up yoga classes (more here, here, and here — just a few examples). While we can certainly do more and see more now than we could amid the lockdowns, I look back at my benignly naïve, pre-pandemic 2020 self with a patronizing smile — bless her heart.

Looking back on all that has happened, all that we “missed out on,” and all that we did despite it all, I can’t help but reembrace the spirit of my 2019-going-on-2020 self. For this reason, I would like to belatedly declare a few new year’s resolutions.

1. Try Harder. I don’t regret things very often. I’m not the sort of person to think, “oh, if only I had changed one thing, then all other things could have been better.” However, I am the sort of person who will regret not trying hard enough. Whether it’s studying for a test, sticking to some sort of healthy habit, or just resolving inter-personal conflicts, I often get mad at myself when I feel that I just didn’t give it my all. Where would I be right now if I gave all of my endeavors a full effort? I’ll let you know in 2023 😉
2. Eat Healthier. If you follow my blog, you will notice the odd post about sugar or alcohol (more here and here); this is because I think about my diet in these terms a lot. Over the years, I have cut back on both substances (especially alcohol — it increases one’s likelihood of getting CANCER, you know), but, of course, there is more to a healthy diet than just sugar and alcohol content. As I learn more about the subject, I now know more about how foods not only affect our weight, but also our skin, gut bacteria, concentration, and even mental health. With this in mind, in 2022 I will continue to think about food in more holistic terms and develop healthier habits to match.
3. Fitness. I very much like to be active! I love taking exercise classes (more here) and I even ran a half marathon last fall (more here). However… I want to do MORE. Exercise gives me more positive energy, it helps me sleep better, and it helps me feel better. So, there’s not much I have to say on this subject except — keep it up!
4. Seize the day. Finally, understanding that life can turn on a dime, I want to make sure that I seize opportunities when they present themselves. Who knows whether we will soon confront another dangerous, scary COVID wave. When some opportunities are gone, they’re gone for good! With this mindset, I hope that I will just say “yes” rather than “maybe, next time.”

I have heard it said that COVID has become like the new flu — we’re just going to get booster shots every year and go about our business. Will this happen? I don’t know, but either way, in 2022 (and beyond!), I want to make the most of my time rather than just wait it out. Youth will not be wasted on me!

Wishing you a wonderful and prosperous 2022!

Love,

Raven