10.9.24 - a reflection of 36
Good morning ,
My birthday is on Sunday and I had every intention on doing this cute thing on Facebook where I post every day leading up to my birthday about what I learned or what I'm thankful for.
Time got away from me but I still wanted to share some of my thoughts -
Age 36 was a challenging year. I felt like I was holding it together and falling apart at the same time. Between the unexpected transitions, new endeavors, the ups and downs of marriage and parenting, and just life LIFEing, the year has been rough. It's true what they say, you never know what people are going through. Despite the challenges, I am still here, with more faith than I have ever had before.
A few highlights of 36 -
*I started writing a book and discovered a love for writing my thoughts and experiences. I never liked to write or read so I am fully embracing how God has changed my desires into something healthy and helpful.
*I hit one year of sobriety. (It's currently been a little over a year and a half since I have had any alcohol.) Addiction wasn't the issue, but placing my comfort in a glass of wine over the word of God was. (click here for full story) I told God on April 3, 2023 that I would stop drinking. There have been some trying times this year and I know that if I wouldn't have made that commitment that I would have turned to a bottle of wine, over trusting in God.
*I started going to a women's bible study and it's been such a blessing to learn with other like-minded women. I truly value the friendships I'm building and the knowledge I'm gaining. Studying the word has been a regular part of my life, rather than a box I'm checking off. It has brought me so much joy and peace in times when I literally felt like I was going to lose my mind.
*I began healing. There is so much that goes into this. Healing is hard, and that's probably why I avoided it for so long. Not because I didn't want to but because I just wanted to move on. It's been difficult but I can see the progress. Being able to forgive, understand myself better and acknowledge my hurt aren't fun but necessary.
*Lastly, I began a bible verse challenge where I choose 1 verse a week to remember. I still haven't made my poster board but it's on my list to complete by the end of the year. :)
A few lessons of 36 -
*Don't count yourself out. God can use anyone willing and ready to build his kingdom.
*God isn't pressed by time. Me being in a hurry doesn't change God's plan. Truly embracing his will and his timing is what I strive to do. Strive being the key word here.
*Following the Bible's instruction will never steer you wrong. Luke 6:27-28 is a hard verse to abide by but man will it change your life.
*Giving up control is scary but it's less scary when you give it the one who made all creation. It's also freeing.
*It is possible to have peace and joy in the middle of chaos.
*The world makes you believe evil is good. Ask God for wisdom and discernment to guide you.
*Don't take time for granted.
I want to close this email with something my pastor recently said, "Faith is not produced in a picnic. It's produced in a storm."
Age 36 has brought some storms, but it's brought a whole lot more faith that I don't know I would have had it not been for the storms. And the testimony that will come after is what I'm praising God for.
I appreciate you being a part of my community. It's always more than skin care :)
If this email has helped you please share it with someone you know.
Love,
Danielle
naturallycreated4you.com
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