Happily Saying Goodbye to 2011

“Wounding and healing are not opposites. They're part of the same thing. It is our wounds that enable us to be compassionate with the wounds of others. It is our limitations that make us kind to the limitations of other people. It is our loneliness that helps us to to find other people or to even know they're alone with an illness. I think I have served people perfectly with parts of myself I used to be ashamed of. ” -Rachel Naomi Remen

As I reflect on 2011 and that happened, I begin to feel overwhelmed. Last New Year's Eve I remember thinking,  "2010 was a terribly difficult year, 2011 is going to be different." Well, 2011 proved itself to be just as difficult, if not even more difficult than 2010. I completely understand that this year was difficult partially because of my decisions, which is why I think it is so important to reflect and make changes. 


One thing I am realizing as I reflect on what my year looked like, is that the circumstances I encountered and experienced are all a part of my story. They have made me who I am today, and they have shaped me into who I want to be in 2012. I also see them as opportunities to speak into other people's lives who are possibly experiencing something similar to what I've been through. I pray that my life can be an example to those around me, of grace & forgiveness, of start-over's & repentance. But more than all of that, I pray that people will look at my life and see the Lord at work; to see how He has redeemed me, and changed my life.


Here's to 2012, I have no idea what to expect. I think I am done expecting what the entire year will hold, but instead, I will take it one day at a time. I know that this year will be different, because I am different.