Two Day Magazine

Ahhh, the end of 2011 is near.

Some of you will revel in its passing and others will fondly remember the year as the clock strikes midnight on Saturday.

As I look back on the year, I’m conflicted as to whether to consider this a good one. Truth is, each year is special in some ways, and each year is awful in others. That seems to be a part of how life works.

My year began with a fantastic memory of my two best friends and I at the NHL Winter Classic game in Pittsburgh. It continued with great times on a weekend ski trip with those same pals, later on a random excursion to celebrate my birthday, and many other memories I’ll cherish.

I watched good friends marry, including a couple whose son celebrated his first birthday this year.

Professionally, I was invited to become part of this great project at twodaymag.com, and was awarded with some great accolades for my reporting ability. For the third consecutive year, I spent more than 1,000 hours volunteering for the American Cancer Society, including successfully eading a team of volunteers through a series of leadership training events where of more than 2,000 volunteers gained additional skills.

I welcomed a new shelter dog into my family of four-legged friends.

Among all of the great things that happened, though, is a litany of challenging times, sad moments and heartbreak.

I mourned the loss of a good friend’s husband, and also of a professional role model. I listened as friends used my shoulder to lean on for support through job losses, economic woes, family tragedies and other problems encountered on the road called life.

Quite possibly my life’s biggest challenge this year came when my best friend chose to leave his family and friends for a job. While it might not seem as earth-shattering as what others might have dealt with this year, it certainly has taken an emotional toll not only on me, but on many others as well.

As heartbreaking as that situation is, his decision did help me bring to light how important it is to keep family and friends close by — physically and emotionally. I’ve written a lot about the importance of friends, family, love and togetherness, and it’s something I not only say, but actually follow through with, as well.

As the clock strikes 12 a.m. and a new year begins this upcoming Sunday, the one message I’ll carry with me from 2011 is to continue enjoying every moment spent with those I love and care for.

No matter how you reflect on the year, I wish you nothing but peace, love and togetherness for 2012.

Happy New Year!

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twoday magazine wants to know: What are some of your reflections of 2011? Was this a year of challenges or accomplishments (or both)? Share your thoughts on our Facebook page!

Can’t get enough of Bobby Cherry? Catch up with him at Gobobbo.com or tweet him @gobobbo.