November is always a time of reflection for me about the year past, as well as a time of celebration for the gift of life. As you may already know, I was born in November.

This past year, with all its ups and downs, can be summarized in one sentence: I tried my best every day to reach my full potential.

The beauty of life for me is found in the simple moments of our daily lives. So that’s what I’m celebrating this year: the tries.

To try means:

“to make an effort to do or accomplish (something); (to) attempt” or also in terms of rugby, a sport which my youngest sister plays "an act of advancing the ball past the opponent's goal line and grounding it there for a score of three points." 

She did some amazing tries this season, so I have to give her a shoutout. Either way you frame it, to try means you are moving forward on your journey. Each of those steps should be celebrated, as they are valuable.

I was reminded of the value of trying when I met an individual at a recent event who seemed intriguing. However, before we could talk much, they had to leave quickly. Then I realized I didn’t have their contact information.

As I was driving home, it made me sad to think that I might never see or talk to this person again.  In that moment, I knew that I would regret if I didn’t try, so I tracked down the person’s email and connected with them.  This started a great relationship.  I remember thinking, “Look what I would have missed if I hadn’t tried!”

So often we focus only on if we win or if we lose – we should focus on celebrating the tries. My lesson through this year is to remember: you never know what will happen if you don’t try!

Here’s to trying! Here’s to being you! Here’s to celebrating our amazing selves!

Excited for what lies ahead!