This has been a year of change for me, as well as a year of final absorbing some of the lessons that I’ve been trying to understand my whole life. I have learned . . .
- . . . to “Expect the unexpected”

- “Life is a journey, not a destination.”
- “The journey is the reward.”
- “Be open to whatever happens.”
- I am not my degrees or my title.
- “Nature heals.”
- Art heals.
- You carry home inside of you.
- “Creative is a verb!” It’s important to live life creatively.
- Friendship comes in many sizes and shapes, but it is one of the most precious gifts on earth.
- Live life so you will not look back with regrets.
- Memories are precious.
- Be kind to yourself.
- Words have power.
- Belief and passion are priceless.
My list could go on and on, as I have learned a lot this year, but I would rather hear from you. What lessons have you learned during 2011 and how did you learn them?




Dec 27, 2011 @ 10:52:23
This post has got me thinking. One of the things I’ve learnt is that learning is always with you to give back. Another would be that a person’s worth is not linked to age and a third would be consider yourself as others do.
Dec 27, 2011 @ 13:53:44
Those last two are definitely lessons I’m still trying to absorb. I have to admit that “meeting” inspirational “retirees” like you has helped me recognize that life DOES NOT END at 40 (well 43).
Dec 27, 2011 @ 10:56:37
It’s been a year of huge change for Sara and me, as well. I think we too have had to learn a lot about being open and dealing with the unknown–not an easy lesson for me to learn.
Thanks for being such a precious part of this past year for me, Lisa!
Hugs,
Kathy
Dec 27, 2011 @ 13:52:33
I think you have come a long way with the unknown Kathy. Congrats on that.
Dec 27, 2011 @ 14:05:18
I think maybe that I have (finally, or for the last time?) learnt not to sweat the small stuff. The Christchurch earthquakes and thousands of aftershocks have given me real perspective. When you visit friends and the first pieces of informations that they give you are: where the emergency kit is, where you should get a drink of water from (not the tap) and which portaloo is closest – and this 3 months after the big one… perspective.
Dec 27, 2011 @ 15:55:33
Not sure what I’ve learned from this past year; in some things, a few amazing instances; in many others: not such a good year. Trying to focus on the positive becomes more important as I get slapped in the face with something new. So…yeah.
Dec 28, 2011 @ 18:05:31
Maybe that is the lesson you needed to learn, that staying positive despite all the crap makes you a stronger,more creative person.
Dec 27, 2011 @ 16:55:58
Expecting the unexpected and dealing with change are always the most difficult lessons for me to learn, and yet I am faced with them all the time! You’ve had a pretty profound year of change, Lisa, and I truly hope that 2012 can feel a little more settled and “safe” (warm, nurturing, etc.) for you. Good luck!
Dec 28, 2011 @ 18:04:26
Thank you, Dana. I hope 2012 is a wonderful year for all!
Dec 27, 2011 @ 18:09:30
Lisa, I have truly learned so much from my blogging friends (you) about what is most important in this journey. Thank you, thank you–a million thanks for this post–words to live by.
Dec 28, 2011 @ 18:03:48
I feel the same way, Terry. You (and a few others) have taught me how to open my eyes and see the world a little differently, and I value that lesson.
Dec 29, 2011 @ 11:03:36
It feels like a year of change for a lot of us on here. I feel like I’ve accepted who I am and what I want to do more. I’m looking forward to a fulfilling 2012 for us both!
Dec 29, 2011 @ 11:11:12
I’m just looking forward to a little more clarity for myself, whatever that means.
Jan 05, 2012 @ 15:32:32
I’ve been thinking a lot about life as a journey. It really appeals to me but I’m still struggling to figure out what I think it actually means. Thank you for this reminder! I’ve learned that when I feel like I “don’t have time” to accept an invitation or do something fun, sometimes it’s because I’m craving the profound rest I haven’t taken. No matter what I decide to do, now I better know what I’m resisting.