Dear Gentle 2025: A Letter to Hope and Growth

 

Dear Gentle 2025

Thank you for teaching me that, by the end of the day, things work out the way they are meant to. I’ve always loved Rachel Green’s line from F.R.I.E.N.D.S.: “Sometimes things don’t work the way we thought they would!” It resonated with me so much that I often repeated it to myself. But now, I’ve learned that patience and faith are key when things may not go as planned.

Honestly, I meant to write this on January 1st, but life kept me busy (as it often does). So here we are. Let’s talk about 2024.

When I say I “survived” 2024, I mean it. It wasn’t that the year was terrible—it wasn’t a waste either. It was a year of shifts, struggles, and surprising breakthroughs. A year where I redefined my understanding of resilience.

✨ What 2024 Gave Me ✨

Some incredible milestones stood out: I started writing (something I never imagined would feel so fulfilling), had an exhibition that brought my art to life, spent meaningful time with my family and friends, and, most importantly, rediscovered myself. I saw myself deeply immersed in art—passionate, determined, and alive. For that, I am grateful.

But 2024 also drained me. It tested my mental strength in ways I hadn’t anticipated. It uprooted my comfort, challenged my plans, and demanded that I rethink everything. I suppose I needed that, too. Growth doesn’t always feel gentle.

✨ What I Hope for in 2025 ✨

Peace and stillness. That’s what I’m craving this year—both externally and within myself.

2024 might have been a year of excitement and success for others, but I can’t quite place myself in that category. It was messy. It was unplanned. Adjusting to the chaos took time, and I’m still in the process. I made mistakes—big ones. I failed, I cried, I tore up paintings, and I questioned my abilities. But I also tried. And that effort, however small, matters.

In 2025, I hope to find more faith and strength in myself and the world around me. Writing and painting are now woven into my life, and I refuse to let them go. But I also want to hold onto a positive mindset. That’s something I’ve struggled with.

I often swing between two extremes: either bottling up my feelings entirely or letting them out in ways that are too harsh. Creativity, too, follows a similar rhythm. Some days, I face insurmountable blocks; other days, I paint until the sun rises. This year, I want to learn balance—not just in my creative process, but in my life.

Above all, I want to hold onto hope, even when the world feels dark.

✨ For You, Dear Reader ✨

I hope you’ve found strength in your journey, too. Let’s acknowledge the wins and losses of 2024 together and step into 2025 with courage, creativity, and a willingness to try again.

Because this year? This is the year we rise, heal, and create magic all over again.