It's been a while, hasn't it? I've been away, mainly because life has been treating me exceptionally well these past few months. November and December of 2023 turned things around for me after a rather challenging year. Suddenly, it's a new year.

As I mentioned, life has been good — a stable job, peace of mind, and being in my hometown means financial worries are a thing of the past. I've even set some goals for 2024. However, amidst all the positivity, there's one persistent thought: my loneliness. It tends to creep in when everything else seems settled. Despite the calendar flipping to a new year, my sense of companionship remains unchanged.

I fear I won't be leaving the memories of 2023 behind. It's a concern, and I'm only holding on to those connections to avoid the loneliness that haunted me last year. Yet, even with them around, I still feel alone. In a way, I realize I might be running away — from the city's challenges, unhealthy coping mechanisms, bad habits, and the pangs of loneliness. Here in my hometown, I can escape those struggles. However, the city beckons, asking when I'll return. I find myself offering nothing but excuses, at least until I've taken care of my own needs.

I'm content now, a truth I can admit. Feeling lonely doesn't equate to unhappiness. My focus now is on things I can control, which is where my 2024 goals come into play.