Reflecting on 2017, or any year for that matter, is difficult. All the memories, thoughts and experiences are overwhelming when trying to decipher the highlights. Some of the best memories thoughts and experiences end up being forgotten.
Fortunately, 2017 was the first year I kept a journal to record my most intimate thoughts, ideas, poems and anything else that came to mind.
In preparation for writing this, it was fascinating to open up and read entries from my visit to Ghana five months ago.
Every time I open the book, I relive the experience.
I see the lush landscape and hear the loud singing in the distance as I stand on the beach feeling each and every kernel of sand nestled between my toes.
I relive the bus ride from the capital Accra to Cape Coast. The hours on the bus. The hours of witnessing local life.
Dilapidated housing, mud roads, people all over the street trying to sell their products.
Flipping the page, I witness my growth over the past twelve months.
From moments of doubt to moments of resolution, issues that plagued me a couple months ago were quickly resolved, only to be replaced by new issues eagerly awaiting my time and attention.
Knowing the outcome makes it more comfortable to read.
It’s akin to watching a movie, when you already know the ending.
It brings me back into that moment.
It reminds me of moments I experienced in 2017 that otherwise completely slipped my mind. And that is scary, because some of those memories are too good to be forgotten.
As a chapter in my life, 2017 is here to stay.
What is better than preserving you for you?
—
This is an excerpt from my journal.
It’s a poem I wrote, called “Me/Roots”
On the twig of a branch of a tree was me
Yearning and searching to immerse myself into a new person
But that wasn’t necessary.
I had to know me
Explore my core roots, Then ensure my secure Feet in work boots to solidify me.
Work on body and brain
To let my synapses and sinew
Collapse to rebuild castles and condos in its place
For I am anew, not replaced
I am rearranged
I am the me that I perceived as You
I Am The Roots.
—
My 2017 edition is wrapped up but my 2018 edition is just beginning.
I’m eagerly awaiting for my new journal to come in the mail.
For 2018, I’m focusing on my spiritual journey.
I can’t wait till 2019, when I get to reflect on 2018.