Today, or since it is 1:30am currently, yesterday was my 21st birthday. Which means I am now able to drink, and not much else. I have been on the Earth for 21 full years and am now working on my 22nd year (birthdays are confusing). As I was about to go to bed, I started reminiscing on this year and what it has taught me. In an effort to become more self-analytical and reflective on things, I decided to start this blog. Here it goes.
This year has been one of heartaches and joy, overwhelming assignments and fun adventures, new challenges and life lessons, self-discovery and insecurity. A typical year with many ups, downs and unexpected turns.
This year I learned. I learned how essential healthy friendships are to healthy living. I discovered God’s call on my life is NOT black and white. I realized how important self-evaluation and reflection are and I am taking steps to improve myself in that aspect. I learned how important expressing my feelings and opinions is, even if they cause conflict. I made many more friends and realized that letting people in, is okay. I learned that its okay to fail.
This year I failed. A lot. I failed at being a good friend. I failed at prioritizing my own feelings. I failed at being confident that I matter every single day. I failed at putting 110% into everything. I failed at being a good leader, often. I failed at loving others unconditionally. I failed in my relationship with Jesus, consistently. I failed at eliminating procrastination. I also failed at my New Years resolution, no surprise there. I failed plenty but I also triumphed.
This year I triumphed. I triumphed in classes. I thrived in my summer position. I succeeded in voicing my own opinion. I successfully navigated through hard discussions and preserved and strengthened friendships. I improved so much in my dancing. Jesus helped me to succeed in being there for friends when they fell lower than they ever imagined and had no clue what to do. I triumphed in French class and fell just a bit in love with French culture and language. I thrived in my positions on the BSDS officer team. I triumphed when I joined Bella Voce. I triumphed when I was able to love others without strings or conditions. I triumphed when I realized that it is okay to talk about your own success and you can do it without sounding cocky.
I tried to become love this year. I’m not much good at it but I will continue to try. I am thankful for my family who are always there to love and support me no matter where I’m at. I am thankful for my best friends that always provide a soft place to land. I’m thankful for my best friend Emily, because she so faithfully loves and puts up with me. I am thankful for everyone who impacted my life in one way or another, yes that is probably you, the reader. I am thankful for every friend, colleague and mentor who formed me into the woman I am today. I cannot thank y’all enough. Thanks for 21 years, Jesus. Here’s to the start of my 22nd year, may it be dedicated fully to You.
For the Love of Life 