As 2017 is about to end, I find myself struggling with words.  As a communication’s major and show host on various programs here at newclevelandradio.net, I’m not sure what I should say or not as this year ends and 2018 begins.  This is not the first time I find myself in this situation.  Believe it or not, I dislike confrontation, and therefore I tend to hold back except when I don’t!

I tend to walk on eggshells and not disturb others, yet I agree we all should be able to speak our minds respectfully without being called out for our views or opinions.  However, it only takes one person to read what you (or I may post) on social media, to make us feel as if we should not have said anything at all.  Trying to play fair and be the kind person ‘all the time’ can often make one feel weak and sick inside and out, and I for one need to stop allowing others to shape my feelings.

Just like you, I want better outcomes for all of us as we move forward into the new year and the only way I will succeed is to stop wearing my heart on my sleeve.  If you can tell me how you feel, I should be able to do the same.  Feelings are a belief or an emotional state or reaction to something.  We all have them. Feelings are not right or wrong, they are personal, and until you truly know the person, you will never understand them or be able to walk a mile in their shoes!  It is how we react to those feelings is what sets us apart.

I come to all of you as one year ends and another begins and welcome you to explore your awareness of life and those around you.  Even though we may have much in common until we take the time to stop judging and accept our differences, we will not achieve the happiness we all deserve.  My mother used to tell me, “Make someone happy, and they will make you happy too…”  Well, my momma was not 100% correct.   What she should have said, “Make yourself happy, and when you do others will seek to be happy too!”