Before rushing headlong into the New Year, I invite you to reflect, ponder and appreciate your experiences of this past year.
Only as I took the time to reflect did I realize the gifts my varied experiences provided me.
Let me share a few and invite you to reflect and look at your experiences with new eyes.
What My Experiences Taught me
-Opportunities and the time needed to manage my own business required me to get clear on my values and my purpose.
-Challenges in farming tested and strengthened my marriage and taught me patience and loyalty.
–Two tragic deaths in my community reminded me how much we need and depend on each other.
-Serving in a church capacity that seemed beyond my abilities stretched and helped me grow in faith.
-Attending college graduation ceremonies for two of my children increased my respect and gratitude for their maturity and growth.
-Taking a road trip with two of my daughters increased my appreciation for their personalities and capabilities.
-Uniting in fasting and prayer with my family for a loved one created a year of spiritual growth for myself and family.
-Lingering health challenges provided me the opportunity to develop courage, perseverance, and self-compassion.
-Taking time to kayak this summer taught me to not let inconvenience get in the way of experiencing life.
There are many more I could share, but I hope your thoughts are now turned to your experiences and the lessons available in each.
We can easily gloss over and quickly forget these meaningful moments if we do not take the time to review and reflect.
As you reflect, ponder, and appreciate the events of 2022, may you look forward to the gifts of experience this new year will bring you.
Best wishes for a beautiful 2023.
Much love,
