A New Chapter | Birthday Reflection

I’m an October baby, and it’s arguably the best month of the year.​

I’m typically reflective. I mainly feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the gift of life. Looking back, I see all the ways the Lord has kept me, answered prayers, and held me in the palm of His hand.

I recall the laughter from a joke. The imprints of memories made with family and friends, both old and new, replay in my mind, and my heart is overcome with gladness. Because in them, I see Him.

There is a moment, though, when grief creeps in. It screams out the timelines I made. It shatters the images of what I thought my life should look like. And oftentimes, it doesn’t want to steal my joy, but be held with it. It invites me to a party of surrendered expectations. It is there that God meets me, and He’s given room for His sovereignty to abound.

I’m here.

I’m thirty-one.

Content with an open heart. A grateful one.

I’m making room.

And even with promised lands I’ve created in my mind, they are no match for His presence.

And with that,

Thank you to everyone who gave of themselves to ensure I was celebrated this year.

Thank you for meeting me - where I am - and choosing to love. To pour. And, to hold me up on my birthday.

I am here - exactly where I’m supposed to be. And, that is enough.

I’m excited for now and what is to come.