Life after forgiveness means not letting the anger and bitterness creep back in and stay. I have decided to not build anything right now. I'm just going to enjoy what others have built and figure out what it is I want. I've done the research and know what I need to do to build a better foundation, one that is strong and long lasting. But I'm not ready to start construction just yet. I want to take some time to look around and enjoy my surroundings rather than study them and concentrate only on work.

I've spent so many years with my head down, trying to plow through all I had to do  - whether I had to do it or just thought I had to do it - that I want to spend some time now with my head up, looking around and sampling what is available. Adventure is not a big part of my personality. I don't chase it, crave it, or need a lot of it in my life. However, now that I have the opportunity to see what is out there in life, I am going to take it. I am not responsible for anyone else now and I am going to enjoy myself.

I have started by adding 2 new things to my weekly routine. I will add more as I find opportunities that match my interests and schedule. I'm thinking about a new direction; I will need to do more research and figure out if it is really something that will bring the benefits I am seeking to my life and bottom line.

I am also focusing on cleaning up the things that linger from choices I have made as an adult. I had a new slate about 10 years ago and didn't often act wisely in some areas.  I want to improve in those areas, especially since improvement will allow me to achieve dreams I have  that will not be possible otherwise.

I guess I'm finally growing up!