Reflections on 2019: Lessons Learned and Dreams Unfulfilled

2019 has come to a close, and with it, many of the dreams and aspirations that I cherished turned out to be unfulfilled. In this article, I will reflect on some of the experiences and decisions I wish I could change, starting with my ambitious and elaborate plans for a cross-country journey and finishing up with some personal reflections on my year.

Amtrak Journey and Celebrity Cruise Adventure

A major regret of 2019 is my failure to execute a detailed travel plan. If I could change one thing, it would have been my travel to Alaska. Instead of setting off with just a celebrity cruise to Alaska, I would have ridden the Amtrak train 14, the Northbound Coast Starlight, from San Jose Diridon Station to Seattle. Then, I would have flown to Fairbanks, Alaska, with Alaska Airlines flight 123 from Seattle, Washington.

From the Celebrity Cruises Alaska and Canada cruise, I would have joined my brother on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad. Additionally, I wanted to explore the Vancouver Via Rail Train Station, starting from the Victoria British Columbia Miniature World Museum. After obtaining directions from the museum, I would have boarded Via Rail Train number 2, the Canadian passenger train heading to Toronto.

In Toronto, with my brother, Matthew, and my grandparents, Barbara and Bob, we would have ridden Via Rail Train number 1, the Canadian. We would have made our way back to Vancouver and then to Victoria for our Celebrity Cruises Solstice voyage. Unfortunately, this expedition never materialized, and it feels like a significant missed opportunity.

Other Unfulfilled Aspirations and Reflections

My aspirations that remained unfulfilled in 2019 include noteworthy personal and professional goals. I wished I could revisit my old school and relive the vibrant friendships formed during that time. Similarly, I cherished my old house and the countless memories it held. Lastly, I miss my ex-girlfriend and wish I could have resolved some unresolved feelings.

On a personal note, my wrestling club played a significant role in my life, providing a means to channel my energy and resolve stress. Unfortunately, with the passage of time, it is not as active as it once was, and I often find myself dealing with stress through smoking.

Furthermore, my college years were a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity filled with learning, growth, and making lifelong connections. Despite the challenges and disappointments, I look back at those years with immense gratitude and fondness.

Concluding this reflection, I would have liked to reminisce about the 2019 NASCAR circuit, specifically the aspirations to support Daniel Hemric in winning NASCAR Cup Series races. Although this did not come to fruition, I hope it serves as a reminder that every year holds new opportunities and challenges to be met.

Lessons Learned from 2019

Through the experiences that remained unfulfilled, I have learned the importance of planning and seizing opportunities. Each setback has taught me to value the present and cherish the relationships and moments that make life meaningful. Despite the unfulfilled dreams, 2019 was a year filled with growth and personal development, providing me with valuable lessons for the years to come.

Now, as I transition into 2020, I am ready to embrace new challenges and forge ahead, learning from the lessons of the past and making the most of the opportunities that come my way.