For last year's words belong to last year's language
And next year's words await another voice.
And to make an end is to make a beginning.
~T.S. Eliot, "Little Gidding"

Reflections on 2007

You might find it helpful to first think back seasonally to recall key events, transitions, decisions, etc.

What were some of the highlights for you, and what made them significant? (successes, joys) Of these successes, which one(s) are you most proud of?

What did you let go of? And, what did this seem to make room for?

What wasn’t quite right this year?

What was your biggest challenge/life lesson?

What surprised you?

If you haven’t already mentioned it, what new things were embraced this year? – new relationships, new ways of being, new risks, etc.

Imagine each year representing a chapter in your life…what would 2007’s chapter title be? What was its theme? (Or, what 5 words best describe the year?)

What do you feel in your body and your emotions as you reflect upon these questions? And, what messages do these feelings convey?

What are you most grateful for?

What else is important for you to say about 2007?

Moving into 2008

After reflecting on the past year, what do you want to keep, hold, and nurture into 2008?

Based on the question about what wasn’t quite right in ‘07, can you set an intention around that to work on? Make sure that your intention resonates with you and feels good.

What will you be letting go of in 2008?

Imagine looking into the future; it’s December, 2008 and you’re reflecting back on the year. What was 2008 like for you? How did it unfold? What were the themes, lessons, successes, and joys?

Personal Ritual

If you’d like, you can light a candle to honor and release 2007. You can also burn some sweetgrass or incense to usher in positive, welcoming energy for 2008, or simply meditate for a moment on the candle’s flame.

Imagine that the year ahead is a new person coming into your life. This person is going to make some requests of you, as well as offer you some significant gifts. … Welcome this new year as you would a new, close friend into your life. Open yourself to give and to receive.

What words, feelings, or images come to mind? Allow them to flow easily. Breathe into whatever images may be coming. What guidance emerges?

When you’re ready, move out of the meditation and journal a bit if you’d like or simply move gently into the rest of your day.

What other ideas do you have about rituals for this time of year? Is there anything you’ve been wanting to do? What would be a great gift to yourself? What inspired actions (inner or outer) want to be born?

About the Author : Debbie Lacy, MSW, is a Life Coach in the Seattle, WA area. She launched her full time practice in 2002 and has created a successful business based primarily on word-of-mouth referrals. Debbie helps people access self-nurturing, clear decision-making, and true change in support of creating their unique, inspired lives. Please visit http://www.TheInspiredCoach.com for more information about her services for individuals, couples, and groups.