And so the new year is here..lo and behold we are 15 days into it already!
That leaves me another 350 days to make 2011 a memorable one. I'm not one who sticks to New Year's resolutions. I've grown to learn that these are pretty much the same every year (health, wealth, love and happiness, growth in all aspects: physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually, financially, professionally etc etc).
This year will present new challenges, given that I've stepped into the child-bearing phase of life. My life is no longer about me only; I'm giving a large part of myself for my family, specifically my child.
It is really hard to describe in words what motherhood does to oneself, but put it this way: it is one of the most special jobs in the world, and for some reason it seems that women have the strength and endless love to toil through what is demanded of her. A woman's touch is different when it comes to managing the family, that is why a mother is such an important person in one's life.
Since becoming a mother I have done things which I never thought I could. I haven't had continued sleep for more than 8 hours in the last 5 months (except for 2 days when I fell ill and had my baby sleep over at my sister's place. I think I was pretty much exhausted, hence the flu). But no matter how tired I am, I still get myself to work for the simple reason that my salary will not just fund expenses for myself, it will also fund things for my daughter. I am willing to forgo so many pleasures in life because now I need to think about the future - my daughter's future. The sacrifices one makes as a mother is unconditional, and purely done out of love. I find this one of the most beautiful experiences and precious gift a human being can give another.
That said, I've also learnt that I need to take care of myself, before I take care of others. I relish my time at work, because that gives me me-time, and professionally I am still contributing to the economy. There is still much for me to learn, and so many opportunities for me to grow, I just pray that I may find my true professional calling soon.
And therein lies the challenge for me; finding the delicate balance between providing for my family, and accomplishing personal-professioal goals. So many roles to play, so little time to execute them.
Here's to a great year ahead, I pray that we will find the strength, wisdom and courage within ourselves to face challenges, and enjoy every bit of love and happiness that comes our way this year. Cheers!