Jonathan Meyer.

Over the last couple of weeks, I think I’ve been pretty candid about the up-and-down nature of my life – what’s been weighing on me, what’s been interesting to me, and my general musings. All pretty typical for this column. But if I’m being honest, it’s felt a little less than positive lately.

That’s normal. Life isn’t always butterflies and rainbows. A lot of the time, it’s bland. Repetitive. Quiet. And that’s okay.

Lately, though, I’ve found myself thinking about how things are starting to look up.

Next week, I’ll do my annual look back at the year, the highlights, the lessons, the moments that stuck with me, much like I did last year. But in really broad terms, this year has been a lot of hard work. A lot of challenges. A lot of decisions. It’s been about finding new opportunities, pushing myself, and learning how to grow through discomfort.

Even just over the last few weeks, I’ve felt a shift. Rediscovering old friendships. Creating new relationships. Being more appreciative of the people around me.

As I sit here in our office, I’m genuinely happy to be around full-time. I do my best work when I’m here, when I don’t have to operate through a phone and a laptop, bouncing back and forth between places. I can talk to people face-to-face. I can listen. I can be present. And I think that’s when I serve this community best.

Over the years, I’ve learned that life ebbs and flows. Things change constantly. And when we’re willing to adapt – to roll with those changes instead of fighting them -we usually end up better off.

I’m definitely a creature of habit. But flexibility has always served me well in my different endeavors, even when I didn’t realize it at the time.

So yes, I’m excited for what’s to come.

As I sit here sipping my coffee, I know there are plenty of stories to tell and plenty of things happening in our community. And the best part is that I get to do it alongside friends and family.

I won’t elaborate too much on what’s ahead. I’ve always believed there’s value in waiting -letting things happen naturally. Progress isn’t linear. Expect the unexpected. And sometimes, letting the impossible become possible is the most rewarding feeling of all.

Through highs and lows. Through triumphs and defeats. Through the constant fight against mediocrity.

Sometimes all it takes is a little excitement, and a little hope, to keep you moving forward.

Until my look back at 2025 next week, I’m just Jonathan.