Reflections on 2011

As we enter the twilight of 2011, it's time to look in the rearview and take stock of another year gone by. 2011 was anything but mundane for me. I moved to LA; went through a depression harsher than any I've tussled with in a decade; hit some milestones in my acting career; watched my brother get married and found out he's going to be a father. I've been beat down, taken for granted, ignored, discouraged, and isolated. But I've also made great new friends, been productive, inspired, encouraged, and loved.

2011 was a difficult year, but it was difficult because I made it that way. I made decisions that made my life more complicated, more difficult, and less stable. But those decisions were mine. I cannot complain or pass the buck. I am fortunate that my 2011 was not defined by things outside my control like the tornados that devastated Alabama, the tsunami that crushed Japan, the terrorist attacks in Norway and Nigeria, or the drug war raging in Mexico.

Overall, I'd have to label 2011 a constant struggle. I won some and lost some, but the important thing is that I'm still here, still going, still struggling. I have much to be thankful for - inspired work, supportive friends, loving family.

As we step out of 2011 and into 2012, we are caught between the past and the future, the old and the new, history and destiny. We must be mindful of where we've been without losing sight of where we're going. We must take stock and take action.

2012 here we come!

 

How was your 2011? What were your victories and defeats? How are you approaching a new year?

(photo courtesy of Getty Images)

-- Gabriel Voss

Comments

[Jacqueline Chambers]

This was a great post, Gabe. I love how you've reflected on your past year's low points, and instead of wallowing and saying, "I'm so glad 2011 is over," you learned from them and are ready for what's to come. Happy New Year!!

[Gabriel Voss]

Thanks Jacqueline. Trying to learn from my mistakes and trying to keep it positive. There's enough negative out there that dwelling on it only makes things worse. Happy New Year and hope your 2012 is fruitful and fulfilling!