ANOTHER TRIP AROUND THE SUN

Somewhere along the way, which I'm sure happens to most of us as we age, each birthday starts to carry a bit more reflection. I think about how far I've come, and about all I still want to do. Today I sit here, a bit more grateful than last year. This year was rough. It could have left me bitter, depressed, or sad (which at times it did.) But more often than not, what I felt was gratitude, love, and appreciation. And I'm also grateful for that.

I was supposed to start infusion treatments today, on my birthday. But an infection pushed them back. A year ago, that news would have filled me with anxiety, especially after my doctor stressed the need to begin promptly. But today, nothing. No fear or anxiety or stress. Just hmm... ok. And I credit that to my faith. Because I meditated on God's word this year. (I've been meditating for years, but weaving my faith into it brought me a whole new depth and peace I hadn't experienced before.)

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose". -Romans 8:28

This verse is the one that stands out to me that I repeat over and over like a mantra. I paraphrase it as, God works out everything for my perfect good. It's hard to feel stressed when scripture reminds me that even the hard things are being worked together for my good.

This year, I've let go of past traumas. I've made new friends. I launched a membership. I created tons of patterns and designs for products. And I feel so blessed.

If you know me personally and know the full picture of my health, you might be expecting a heavier account of the year. But I wouldn't take any of it back. I was supposed to go through all of this, this way. I was meant to be refined by fire.

Interestingly, there are different kinds of fire. A forest fire destroys everything its path. An incinerator consumes completely. But a refiner's fire, the one used for silver or gold, burns hottest at its center, removing impurities while leaving the metal intact. And not just intact, they're left more beautiful than before.

I needed that refining. To remind me who I am and Whose I am. I came through stronger, better, and more resilient. And now, I'm choosing to focus more on the things in life that bring me joy and peace.

If you’re in the middle of your own fire right now, I hope you’ll remember... often what feels like destruction might actually be shaping you into something stronger, more beautiful, and more full of purpose than you can yet imagine.

Warmest regards,