Oh, the end of the year. The time where we tend to reflect over the past 365 days. Reflection gets to me every time. Reflecting upon the memories, the accomplishments, even the fears, but most importantly, reflecting encourages me to improve.
Reflecting on the Past Year
I’m not saying all was grand this year. There were those days when I didn’t want to like my kids, those days when my heart didn’t want to be kind and those days when my heart was overwhelmed. I want to be upset at myself for being this way, yet I find myself saying, “It’s okay.”
It’s okay to be selfish for 15 minutes. But I don’t like it! I don’t like being unkind. I like to share joy. I actually pride myself on bringing joy to others. As I sit here and reflect, I wonder if I brought joy to anyone this year.
In my heart, I believe I did. In my mind, I know I did. Yet something is missing. I’m not sure if I stretched my “joy comfort zone.”
Was I fearful of pursuing something that was beyond my current circumstances that would bring more joy? Did I bring joy to everyone I encountered, or did I just bring joy to those immediately around me? What can I do or what should I do to bring more joy from here on out?
Thinking About the Next Year
Next year is a milestone year for me. I’ll be 40 years young. Since my last birthday, I’ve also been pondering what I can do before I turn 40. Here are few ideas I’ve had:
- Complete four pull-ups
- Read 40 books
- Find 40 new meals to cook
But even with all of these items on my “Before I Turn 40 List”, something is still missing. For the longest time, I couldn’t put my finger on it. Then, I went to the movie Wonder, and I knew exactly what was missing.
- Showing more kindness
- Sharing joy
- Giving standing ovations
There’s a line from Wonder in which Auggie Pullman, the main character, says, “I think there should be a rule that everyone in the world should get a standing ovation at least once in their lives.”
I know exactly how I felt when I received my once-in-a-lifetime ovation a few years ago. The feeling is indescribable. I wondered what it would feel like for everyone I encountered to receive an ovation?
Setting Goals to Share More Joy
My “Before I Turn 40 List” took an unprecedented turn. I’ve decided to give 40 ovations before I turn 40.
I’m going to be intentional in sharing joy by bestowing ovations. Forty ovations to let others know I’m inspired by them. Because I’m only one person, I realize I cannot accomplish standing ovations for all those who have inspired me; therefore, I need to look for a different outlet.
Which is why I’ve decided my outlet will be in written form through cards and online posts. That way, I can specifically share reasons why each person has inspired me to be a better mom, wife, teacher or friend.
As this year comes to an end, and you prepare for the new year, what’s one thing you can do to inspire others? I challenge you to give someone an ovation and bring joy to those around you!
Shelly Mowinkel
K-12 & Teens
My husband and I have three kids. Our oldest is a freshman in high school, and our youngest is in second grade. Most days, I feel like we are a “tag-team chauffeuring” service, yet I wouldn’t have our life any other way. Not only I am a business/technology teacher at Milford, I am also the district technology integration specialist. I love teaching because I get the opportunity to make those around me better. My hope is that, through my blogging, I am able to inspire, encourage, and share with you my adventures of being a wife, mother, and professional.
