It seems these past several years, when I took stock of every year that had passed with each birthday, I felt a heavy cloud set around me, filling my lungs almost and just lingering, dense with expectation, regret and uncertainty.

There was always something at the back of my mind that I was worried about, or knew was imminent. Even though I daresay I’ve spent the last few years well, the weight that I could never quite lift off my shoulders always seemed to be most noticeable during the high times.

This year that changed. It has been a most, shall I say, different year, but one I am grateful for, all the same.

This year, I think I did some growing up. Most of it necessary, though no lessons come entirely for free.

This year, it’s the first time in a long time I have no regrets.