As my last blog for 2024, I want to share some reflections. The year was full of firsts and lasts. There are some lessons I will keep to myself and others I will share.

This year was the year of Walking on Water for me and my family. It required us to do what was impossible in the eyes of man but possible with God. I used Bible verse – Luke 18:27 as my daily mantra. I have it framed in my home, and it’s the last thing you see when you walk out the garage door. It is a reminder that no matter what we were going to face that day…everything is possible with God.

This year took me on an emotional and physical voyage that was truly unexpected. I traveled outside the Country and lived away from my home for 3 months. I had encounters with complete strangers that I am now convinced were Angels disguised as humans. I revisited several places that brought me great joy and witnessed grave injustice.

All of this left an indelible mark on me. It caused me to be clear-eyed about the things that surround me, what I must accept, and what I can no longer accept.

I learned that I needed to walk away when I felt I was no longer serving a situation. I learned that I needed to trust more and worry less because, like the quote I read says, “what you worry about is what you worship.”  

I learned to no longer be intimidated or afraid of what others may perceive of me. I learned I needed to continue showing up as my authentic self. I learned that relationships have an expiration date.

I learned that my opinions are powerful and they have consequences. I learned it is no longer my responsibility to make everyone happy and comfortable. I learned that NO is a complete sentence.

I learned that the spouse you choose is the most important decision you will ever make in your life. I learned that my sons are brilliant in their own unique way. I learned that the circle of my family of four is the most important circle I will ever have; until they get married, it will enlarge.

I learned that money does not make sadness any less painful, nor does it brighten joy. I learned that giving is better than receiving. I learned that we must show up for our neighbors…that’s your congregation. I learned that GOD and only GOD is my anchor. I learned that what God has for me, nothing and no one can take it away.

I learned that I am strong. I am intelligent. I am determined. I am kind. I am curious. I am brave.

I learned that I am beautifully and wonderfully made.

I learned….so can you!  

Each of us can be those things when we are willing to learn. We just have to open our hearts to see others as God would see us.

Broken but beautiful. I learned that, too.

On to my Year of Authority!