The New Year

Here’s to us,

for making it this far. 

As another year closes

we dust down resolutions

review the messes we’ve made,

the triumphs we’ve tasted,

taking a shot for every disappointment

whilst dancing on the embers of the past.

We revel in the victory

of all we’ve overcome.

Nothing compares 

to this strength,

to this evolving—

surviving the torture 

of our cocoons.

Now,

we emerge,

glittering, 

ready —

for all this year will bring

and more.

For all life has in store:

the days unmarked,

the chances yet untaken,

the light we’ll find in unexpected places,

the lessons hidden in shadow.

For all the love waiting to be found,

all the joy we’ll dare to claim,

and even the storms we’ll weather,

growing stronger with every step forward.

Here’s to the future—

unfolding like a map,

ready to take us

everywhere we’ve dreamed

and beyond.