First things first

…Happy New Year! I hope you are shuffling nicely and comfortably into the waves of the new year. I am cosy in conversation with my dad at home in Kampala, as I visit for another couple days; feeling extremely grateful for life, for the chance to be in communion with my loved ones and for the newness of season. (Btw it’s a new year, buy my book “Seasons”)– side bar. On the real though, the festivities of 2022 leading into 2023 have been interesting to say the least but also, different, in a way I am yet to unpack. Much of my last half of the previous year was spent in deep reflection and contemplation of future plans as well as a stock take for that which has passed. I struggle with the idea of New Year’s resolutions, as an anxious person, I’m always thinking and creating ideas. So, I am constantly setting internal resolutions. Although, I fear that I may lose sight of those expectations during execution time. A few weeks ago, as I was scrolling through my TikTok FYP, I came across a free template for a planner/guided writing tool for reflection and projection called Year Compass. I intend to fill out my copy sometime today after gather myself for the 20-page journaling process and for the internal unrest I might be setting myself off into. Nonetheless, I am excited to do this activity because it comes at a time when I am making sacred vows to myself about the things which I want to orchestrate in my life going forward.

Unlike my usual indulgences for New Year’s celebrations, I spent the evening with my dad, my brother and my partner, having dinner, conversation and merry-making away. I had no plans of getting wrapped up in the craziness of Kampala’s wild NYE’s festivities (an experience I think everyone should have, the place is just loaded with merriment). Instead, I fancied some Chardonnay and fireworks, blasting so brightly and illuminating the Kampala sky and seeing the joy on the faces of everyone around. Intimate, sincere and modest in nature, I loved everything about the way my year began. 2022 was a tough year in many respects and I for one, was looking forward to its end. I am keen on my superstitions; I know that a new year starting does not take away from the struggle the previous one had. If anything, it perils on. But, the commitment to optimism and good faith I have embarked on in 2023 refutes me from carrying on burdens I housed last year. That is not to say I won’t be attending to the parts of my previous year which I was deficient in, e.g., my spiritual practices like praying. With so much thanksgiving in my heart for the stress we’ve collectively endured because, I 100% believe that there has been a communal grief; I want to approach the new season with a renaissance of mind, body and spirit. We deserve a season of ease after tumultuous periods of sadness, strife and instability summersaulting in tricycles and wearing us out. From COVID to civil and religious wars around the world, to BLM and the killings in Kampala in 2020 November, to World Cup; we share a collective joy and suffering globally. With that in mind, I can only hope that the new season allows for re-evaluation of failed strategies, revisiting of old selves and intentional goal setting for the short and long term. That we can heal as a whole community with the shared understanding of humanity, peace and compassion. That we may be more environmentally conscious and use resources sparingly. That we may be kind to one another and dismantle prejudice in our small corners of the world to the greater good of others to come. That we may have grateful spirits for the kindnesses offered unto us. I wish you a beautiful 2023, may you forgive yourself for the mistakes of 2022 and may newness of mind, body and spirit find you in abundance.

Cheers,

Miss Nai.