Guest Writer: Wemi Opakunle

For a lot of people, 2015 was a great year. For others, not so much. There were trials and tribulations, heart breaks and let downs. For many, this year could not close out fast enough. I want to tell you something that might help put things in perspective in spite of how you feel about the past 12 months. The universe does not label experiences as good or bad. They just are experiences.

As human beings, we usually have the need to label things. It gives us a better understanding of why things are the way they are. It also helps us find our footing in this world; it helps us understand where we stand in the grand scheme of things.

In spite of our labels and feelings, we have to know that obstacles and challenges are not meant to break us down. It is actually impossible for them to do that. We only think they can because we’ve forgotten who we are. We are children of God, powerful beyond measure. Nothing, and I mean absolutely nothing has the power to break us down.

Our experiences —whether we label them good or bad are not happening to us. They are happening through us and for us. They are meant to push us forward and catapult us into the fullness of the amazing human beings we were created to be. Once you change your mindset, your outlook will also change.

You’ll realize that you aren’t a victim of life or circumstance. You’ll start to understand that you are able to handle whatever life throws at you. Over the next few days, take stock of what was and let go. Don’t dwell on the past because life doesn’t dwell on the past. It moves forward — with or without you. Apply what was learned to the present moment and take action to be better; to live to your highest potential.

Accept the end and then begin again.