
For me, 2012 provided some massive ups and downs. Finding Poe reached Amazon's paid bestseller list and remained there for two weeks, and it was also named an EPIC finalist in horror (the winning results of which will be revealed in March). I experienced my first-ever white Christmas. I made some great friends on Facebook, but also lost a few over ideological differences. I wrote my twelfth novel. I endured terrifying blind spots in my vision due to retinal swelling, which have persisted now for over four months and have had a serious impact on my ability to read and write in a timely manner.
With all that said, what 2012 brought to me, more important than anything else, is the realization that life is surprisingly short, youth can pass us by before we have the chance to appreciate it, and health can take any number of unexpected turns that can prove forever life-altering. So, this year, I challenge myself to take a chance I might not have taken in 2012, to do something that allows me to live in the moment and might provide me with exciting memories when I look back on this coming year--even if it happens to be scary or somewhat out of my comfort zone.
I challenge you to do the same. Make a bucket list, even if you're young and healthy. Think of something you've always wanted to do, but felt too apprehensive about doing. Push your boundaries. Take life by the reigns and force it into a new direction. Make 2013 a year to remember.
I thank those of you who have followed my blog and/or my books and anthology contributions. You have empowered me in ways you'll never know, and I wish you happiness, good health, and success in this coming year.