Hey everyone, Robert Kline here! As another year unfolds like a freshly painted canvas, I find myself reminiscing about the year gone by. It’s a natural human inclination to reflect, to sift through the memories, both grand and small, that have colored our journey. This year, as I delve into the past, I’m struck by a profound sense of gratitude for the growth, the laughter, and even the stumbles that have shaped my path.
A Year of Unexpected Turns and Rediscovering Passions
My 2017 was a whirlwind of emotions, a tapestry woven with threads of joy, anxiety, and everything in between. From the bittersweet pangs of graduation to the nervous excitement of starting a new job in the bustling heart of New York City, it was a year of embracing the unknown.
The Early Days: Resolutions and Realizations
Remember those ambitious New Year’s resolutions we all make with the best of intentions? Yeah, those didn’t quite go as planned. My gym membership card gathered dust, and I found solace in late-night pizza binges while binge-watching Bob’s Burgers. But hey, life is about balance, right?
February: Embracing the Chaos of College Life
Ah, February. The month of late-night study sessions fueled by questionable YouTube videos and the camaraderie that comes from conquering problem sets at the eleventh hour. It was a time when sleep was a luxury and dank memes were a way of life.
March – June: The Rollercoaster of Creativity and Graduation Jitters
March brought with it the daunting task of writing a science fiction short story for my final writing class. Writer’s block hit me harder than a rogue asteroid, but eventually, the words began to flow.
April brought a wave of senioritis and a near-fatal email mishap that had me questioning my life choices. Thankfully, my advisor had a sense of humor.
And then came June, the month of graduation, a bittersweet symphony of pride, nostalgia, and the daunting realization that a significant chapter of my life was coming to a close.
June – August: A Homecoming to Remember
After bidding farewell to MIT, I embarked on a long-awaited trip back home to Nigeria. The sights, sounds, and smells of my homeland enveloped me like a warm embrace. I reconnected with family, devoured plates piled high with jollof rice and suya, and shared stories of my MIT adventures.
September: Navigating the Concrete Jungle
Returning to the United States, I found myself in the heart of New York City, a fresh-faced graduate navigating the exhilarating chaos of a new job and a new life. The initial weeks were a blur of imposter syndrome and late-night coding sessions, but slowly, I found my footing.
October – December: Embracing the Highs and Lows of Post-Grad Life
As the year drew to a close, I grappled with the realities of adulting – paying bills, navigating loneliness, and questioning my sanity at 3 am while taking Buzzfeed quizzes about my spirit animal. (Turns out, I’m a Chihuahua. Who knew?)
But amidst the challenges, there were moments of pure joy: spontaneous adventures, reconnecting with old friends, and the quiet satisfaction of seeing my hard work pay off.
Lessons Learned and the Beauty of the Unfolding Path
As I reflect on the rollercoaster ride that was 2017, I’m reminded that life is a journey, not a destination. It’s about embracing the unexpected, learning from our mistakes, and cherishing the moments, big and small, that make up the tapestry of our lives.
Here are a few key takeaways from my 2017 adventure:
- Embrace the unknown: Stepping outside of your comfort zone can be daunting, but it’s often where the most rewarding experiences lie.
- Don’t be afraid to fail: Failure is not the opposite of success; it’s a stepping stone on the path to growth.
- Cherish the people who matter: Life is too short to spend it with people who don’t bring you joy. Surround yourself with those who lift you up and make you feel loved.
- Never stop learning and exploring: The world is a vast and wondrous place, filled with endless opportunities for discovery.
Looking Ahead: A Canvas of Infinite Possibilities
As I stand on the cusp of a new year, I’m filled with a sense of anticipation and excitement for what the future holds. While I don’t have a crystal ball, I’m eager to embrace the unknown, to continue exploring my passions, and to create new memories that will one day become part of my own personal highlight reel.
What about you? What adventures did 2017 hold for you? What lessons did you learn, and what are you most looking forward to in the coming year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
And if you’re looking for some creative inspiration or unique handmade gifts to mark your own life’s milestones, be sure to check out the amazing selection of handcrafted treasures on Robert Kline Art. From beautifully crafted jewelry to one-of-a-kind home décor, you’re sure to find something special to inspire your own creative journey.