New Year Countdown to Clarity

As the year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on it with a mix of gratitude, humility, and a deeper sense of clarity about what matters most. This year brought both expansion and reckoning—moments that stretched me, inspired me, and reminded me that growth rarely happens without discomfort.

There were moments of joy and pride that grounded me deeply. One unexpected highlight was learning to ride a motorcycle. What began as curiosity became a lesson in presence, courage, and trust. Riding required me to stay grounded in my body, aware of my surroundings, all of the movements of my body, and willing to move forward even when fear appeared. In many ways, it mirrored the work I do clinically: staying regulated while navigating uncertainty, momentum, and risk.

Alongside that, I’ve had the privilege of watching my children grow and challenge themselves in ways that continually humble me. Seeing my son receive the MVP award for his baseball team—knowing the countless hours of practice, discipline, and quiet effort he put in behind the scenes—was profoundly meaningful. Equally powerful was watching my daughter transition successfully into high school while continuing to nurture her passion for orchestra. Witnessing my partner, their father, endlessly showing up for all of us has been astonishing. Bearing witness to their perseverance, growth, and commitment has been one of the greatest gifts of this year.

Professionally, I remain endlessly grateful for my clients and the privilege of bearing witness to their lives. This year, I watched people bring children into the world, grieve losses, reclaim their agency, and choose themselves in ways they never thought possible. I sat with individuals living with chronic illness and cancer—people whose time and energy are constantly being negotiated, yet who show up with resilience, humor, and honesty. To witness people fighting for their lives, their peace, and their wholeness is sacred work. I never take that lightly.

Being invited into these moments—of birth, grief, healing, and transformation—is an honor. Therapy is not just a profession for me; it is a relational, human exchange that requires presence, integrity, and reverence. I am continually shaped by the courage of those who trust me with their stories.

As I welcome 2026, I do so with humility, joy, and deep appreciation for my friends, loved ones, and community—those who walk beside me, challenge me, and love me through my edges. I am intentionally closing chapters in areas of my life that no longer serve my values, purpose, or sense of integrity. Letting go is not always dramatic; sometimes it is quiet, steady, and rooted in self-respect.

I also want to hold up a mirror to my own humanness. This year, I didn’t always show up as fully as I could for the people I love. I missed the mark at times, and my misfires risked puncturing others’ sense of trust. I have to own the injuries caused by the shrapnel of my choices. I could have done a more stellar job of following my own clinical advice around boundaries, rest, and wellness. Being called out in these moments is uncomfortable, but also clarifying—a reminder that growth requires accountability, humility, and an ongoing commitment to repair and understanding.

So, dear friend, cheers to what was, what is, and what is to come.

Happy (freakin’) New Year,

Mandy