Yet - I won't disregard the flip side of good this year - the bad occurrences. There were changes that I fought and at times became angry with God, especially where injustices and unnecessary deaths were concerned. Unfortunately, in some or most circumstances as hard as it is for me to say it but I'm learning to believe it (I'm still having a hard time accepting it though), but God does have a greater plan in every circumstances that has been thrown on the human race, on our spirit. With that said, deep down in my primal thinking, in the pits of my soul, I know (not so much accept) that as unfortunate as it sounds, balance is required and that this world operates on the necessity of balance between good and evil. When I do catch myself over-thinking about "why did this happen in Ferguson?" or "why is there such injustices in the world?" - I step back, surrender such thoughts to God, pray and continue to treat my fellow human beings as I want to be treated. Instead of retreating to anger and adding more fuel to the fire, I do my best to be the best and lead by example. In other words, I DON'T GIVE THEM THE REACTION THEY EXPECT FROM A PERSON OF COLOR. As a matter of fact, I refuse to give hate the life that only love deserves.
It may be 2014, but the events of 2014, both good and bad are a reflection of how far we've come, how far we still have yet to get to complete equality and what is needed to improve our society. I'm one person but I'm doing my part to help society - I am that ripple that turns into a wave towards an affect of change.
Well, I bid all of you a "Manigong Bagong Taon" (Tagalog for Have a prosperous New Year), continued blessings and love into 2015; and as always, love, light and compassion to you all.
See you in 2015.
~Maria