When you reflect on this year, what comes to mind? Do you think of the moments filled with joy? Were there seasons of pain you endured? When a new year is about to arrive, I spend hours reflecting on the last twelve months. This all started three years ago, at the end of my first semester in college. I decided to open my journal and write down my thoughts. I wrote about the struggles, blessings, and what I hoped for in the new year.
This year, I focused on the words, be still. These words come from the previous year of anxiety and unknowns. I'm sure many of you can relate to that. In 2021, I wanted to remember to take time to rest and not worry.
One of the verses I wrote in my journal comes from Psalm 46:10. I hope this verse brings encouragement to you today. Every struggle that I faced this year, these words reminded me that God is the one who is in control. We do not need to be worried about what the future holds.
"Be still and know that I am God."
As I look back at what God has done this year, I am completely overwhelmed. Doors opened in ways I never thought were possible, and I started to feel connected with others that relate to my pain.
I was involved with the Diamonds Conference, CMT communities, and other support groups. This led to the start of my blog in April. Then there were several guest posts written by friends. If you are one of those writers, thank you! What a blessing to have you bring encouragement to those who are struggling.
During the spring, I had an opportunity to share my testimony with the youth from my church. In the summer, I was encouraged through teaching dance classes with a friend, opportunities to write guest posts, and later volunteering with a camp for kids with CMT. In the fall, God provided community and friendships with those at my college. I also started a new job and began to feel more independence as a young adult.
Even with all of the blessings, there have been seasons of struggles. I have gone through changes in my life that have brought more pain and discouragement. I faced several appointments that led to anxiety because of the devastating news. I also went through seasons of sadness as I watched family and friends struggle with pain.
But, through it all, God has carried me through this year. I know that even in the struggles with my disability, there will be opportunities to share and encourage others that feel alone. I have struggled with isolation. I know how it feels when health problems worsen. I have been in those shoes. I also understand the blessing of community when there is pain.
I don't know what the future may hold or even what tomorrow brings. What I do know is God is the one who is always constant. In every hill and valley, deep struggle, or pain you face, He is there guiding you.
I encourage you to take time at this moment to reflect on all you have gone through these last twelve months. Spend time writing about the mountains you have faced and the pain you have endured. But, do not forget about the blessings.
My final words to encourage you right now, in 2021, is to rest, pray, and listen. God is always there in the suffering. He will continue to be there in this new year.