I wrote this prayer for New Year’s Eve over 30 years ago. It was a hard year to let go of. My father had passed away only two months earlier and somehow I felt that by letting go of 1988 I’d be letting go of Papa as well. Forever. And I wasn’t ready to do that yet.
So I wrote this poem. It was my prayer of strength and courage, which allowed me to step into the future.
It seems fitting to share this prayer now.
new year’s eve parade
The countdown begins the final seconds of another year. Ten long seconds when You slow down time and parade before me a year gone by. A year of hope, promises, and dreams that have come to life maybe changed or even shattered. All the while, You shared my joy dried my tears and strengthened my faith. A year long walk through a lifetime journey. Holding my hand, You led me through forests and valleys and shady glens, and carried me over rocks and mountains and the driest deserts. Through all my learning and all my growing, You have been an oasis. My shelter and my refuge. Twelve months have passed since I last stood and watched the parade. Now here I am still linked to that moment and feeling. Funny, how one second closes the chapter on a year of life. I look back with sadness. Many people, places and happenings belong to that chapter of my past. Still, I will take them with me for I'll have need of them on my journey into the future. Now, as I look forward I see your gift, a brand new year. New chances New challenges New life And the biggest gift of all I don't have to do it alone.
Finding meaning in loss
If you know what it is to grieve, you will know that healing doesn’t come until Meaning is found. In the early days we search for Meaning in the Why, in the vain hope that the answer would bring us Peace.
But Meaning will never be found in the Why.
Meaning is the Treasure that is found in the rubble. Treasure that is found in spite of , not because of, the loss. It comes in many forms – stronger relationships, deeper faith, a renewed sense of self, more confidence…. The list is endless because the Treasure belongs only to you.
This year has been a year of loss and grief and trauma for many of us. My prayer for you, as you go through this period of reflection and sorting and deciding what you will take with you into the new year, is that you will find your Treasure.
About the Author
SARINA ELDER
Sarina is a Writer with a passion for Making A Difference (MAD).
As a first generation Australian who struggled with cultural identity as a child, Sarina understands the importance of Being, Belonging, and Becoming as a fundamental need in all of us, regardless of age.
As a misunderstood Creative, who was diagnosed with ADHD in her adult years, Sarina is particularly passionate about supporting others to identify and release their Creative, or the Creative in their children, and to embrace the Neurodiversity that accompanies Creativity.
Sarina believes the best way to embrace ourselves is through laughter, and is open to sharing her own stories with the hope of encouraging others.
Thank you Robin.
Beautiful poem Sarina, I can relate to it.