2016,

They year that started with a

bang

pop

laugh

And a warm embrace.

It was a year that seemed full of

promises,

hopes,

and dreams,

lasting only 365 more days.

But for now, we vowed to live,

moment

by

moment,

enjoying 2016.

 

2016,

The year that came with

spotlights,

directing,

competitions,

and backstage nerves.

Lights swirled in cool blues and warm hues.

The dark black floor of the stage was steady under a pair of feet.

The audience, undaunting.

 

2016,

The year that came with lies.

“Lauren, you are a terrible person.”

“Lauren, you are a mistake.”

“Lauren, you deserve nothing.”

“You don’t even exist to me anymore.”

Helpless and a failure.

A heavy burden that no one will carry.

Alone.

That’s who I am,

or at least that’s what I was told.

My soul left shattered.

Lies left me believing.

Friends left me abandoned.

2016 the year of hope, now demolished.

 

2016,

The year that almost overcame me.

Made of sleepless nights,

days darker than nights,

smiles used as a cover up,

and a limp soul asking, why?

Why does my heart feel heavy?

Why do I wake up at 3:00 am?

Why is my pillow stained with tears?

Why do I have to force a weary smile?

Why are they talking behind my back?

Why can’t 2016 be over?

 

2016,

They year I made a choice.

To believe.

Believe that I am -

victorious,

alive,

healed,

worthy,

unstoppable.

Life moves forward,

my health restored,

2016 continues.

 

2016,

The year that time stopped.

2016 halted quietly.

Butterflies fluttered in our stomach’s.

Our eyes locked.

A masculine hand

slowly,

gently,

intertwined with mine.

A strong arm,

protective,

yet compassionate.

Wrapped around my waist to pull me closer.

Lips locked,

carefully

and sweetly,

yet it had the power to make a moment dance with vibrant color,

send electricity spiraling through every part of our souls,

leave me breathless,

in wonder,

and in love.

 

2016,

They year that changed my life,

Would soon come to an end.

The countdown began.

10

2016 not only pushed me but,

9

it pried me,

8

it pulled me,

7

it molded me,

6

and it prepared me.

5

2017 will have its issues.

4

so will 2018,

3

and 2050.

2

But I am ready,

1

because of 2016.

0

Happy New Year.