Reflecting on Growth: From Struggles to Strength in this Journey Called Life!

A year ago, as 2023 drew to a close, the thought of welcoming a new year felt more overwhelming than ever. The unexpected loss of my Dad in October 2023 left me in a whirlwind of emotions, yet I found myself numb, struggling to comprehend how I would navigate the upcoming year of 'firsts' without him. I was filled with anger—angry about my circumstances, angry about facing a new year without my Dad for the first time in my life, and feeling utterly lost knowing I would never be able to pick up a phone and talk to him again. Yet, here I am, a year later, having not only survived but also having confronted challenges I never could have predicted. In hindsight, those 'firsts' I was dreading in many ways ended up being far more manageable in comparison than the unforeseen challenges that came my family’s way.

One year later and I realize that life has a remarkable way of surprising us. Sometimes, these surprises come as delightful gifts, while at other times, they bring a flood of emotions that feel unwelcome and unwanted. The reality is, regardless of what life throws our way, we alone have the power to decide how to respond. Some days this year, I felt strong and brave, while on others, the overwhelming anger and tears made me want to shut out the world and hide. Whether experiencing joy or sadness, anger or compassion, I was the only one who could choose how to navigate the spectrum of emotions in my path. Yet, through this journey, I emerged with greater strength and gratitude, realizing that family, faith, and true friendships were and still are the invaluable gifts that enable me to truly thrive.

On this final day of 2024, I am once again reminded that the greatest gift of reflection is the ability to look back and celebrate all that has been achieved despite life's challenges. Reflections truly are an integral part of our lives and yet we often gaze into the mirror and see a face that appears unchanged since we began our journey. However, the undeniable truth of life is that each and every moment is new and should be cherished for the gift it is.  More importantly, we don't need to wait an entire year to reflect and acknowledge the progress that has taken place. Each day we wake up is a gift—one I certainly do not take for granted - and therefore, every day we have the opportunity to reflect and express gratitude for what has been accomplished. In doing so, we can also embrace the year-end as a culmination of the successful journey we’ve traveled inspite of challenges we’ve endured and the reality that without the struggles, challenges, and even failures, forward motion would not take place

And so, as I stand on the threshold of a new year, I carry with me the lessons learned and the strength gained from the trials of the past year. The journey through grief and growth has taught me that resilience is not just about enduring hardships but also about embracing the full spectrum of life’s experiences. Each moment, whether filled with joy or sorrow, has contributed to my understanding of what truly matters. I look forward to 2025 with hope and anticipation, ready to face whatever challenges may arise, knowing that I have the tools to navigate them. With gratitude in my heart, I will also continue to cherish the memories of my Dad and honor his legacy by living fully and authentically, appreciating each day as it comes. This new year is not just a continuation of time; it is a fresh canvas on which to paint my journey, one day and one brushstroke at a time.