It's the last day of the year 2016. This day will never happen again, which has always been true, but it feels more real today. In order to grow, I need to reflect on the year that's past. So that's how I choose to spend this moment, two hours before we enter the new year.
I am thankful for...
... the safe arrival of baby Hope. To think only last year we weren't even sure if we would get to enjoy a newborn in our arms, and now to see her smiling and shouting and reaching for anything and everything just fills me with gratitude. God is gracious.
I learned that...
... relationships, especially the closest ones, can get messy and difficult, but it's still worth working on. We are all broken and hurting, some way or another, but when we reveal these wounds, though ugly and painful, they give us opportunity to heal and grow.
I am proud of...
... participating in new things, and not giving excuses about having a newborn or three kids. My word for 2016 was 'Determined' and I think I tried to stay true to that. I am especially proud of starting evening classes, even though my brain has turned to mush and I can't concentrate for more than an hour.
I need to work on...
... being other-centred. I have a tendency to talk about myself too much. I need to work on listening more and being more concerned for others. I need to be more patient and remember that relationships are more important than efficiency or my pride.
In 2017, I look forward to...
... a new chapter in my life as we settle into a family of five, with the oldest officially
starting home schooling. I look forward to learning and growing together with my children and making more meaningful memories as a family. I hope to be more adventurous, open to more relationships, and intentional in the way I spend my time and money.
Thank you everyone who supported our family through prayers, finances, services and words of encouragement. You are all blessings from God and we appreciate each and every one of you.
Dear Sammy
ReplyDeleteI can agree with a lot you say