In the past, I have had words find me — in a serendipitous manner with a lace of intuition. This year was no exception as my favorite poet and artist, Morgan Harper Nichols, created an Instagram Reel of suggested words for the year. A screenshot determined my word this year, but I am certain it was meant for me (even if it were a millisecond between my word and another.)
I was clouded with so many fearful thoughts of the future, the what-ifs and I can’ts and worry-mixed-with-doubt. It was hard to gain clarity and even find out the truth in God’s sight: what is the best decision and next-right-thing? If only I could see through the fear, I pondered; what would that feel like? A sigh of relief, a breath of fresh air, and peace? Likely all of the above.
Discernment is a tool in our spiritual arsenal – one of the Holy Spirit gifts to us. It guides us to the will of God, which is to say the best possible outcome for us.
This year I choose blossom as my Word because it represents my intention to grow from the roots I planted as a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5) and build back what was broken through the vehicle of relationship.
It was the morning of the most important interview of my career; with emotions running haywire and hormones adding a dizzying effect, I decided that I just couldn't go to my interview that afternoon. The fear shouted so loudly that I couldn't hear the voice of wisdom that knew to show up despite the very big feelings. This was my dream job, after all!
My body is not my own—it is a home, a dwelling for the living Spirit of God, His Holy Spirit. I do not own my body now that I recommitted my life to Jesus Christ and reconfirmed my faith after years of living like I wanted to.
I abused my body for many years, beginning in high school—to be liked, accepted, to fit in and to gain a man’s attention in hopes that he’d love me and finally fill the void left in my heart and soothe the pain I was carrying.
Last night was a literal dream come true, one that exceeded my expectations and dreams for my career. My students showcased their artwork at the year-end Fine Art Showcase at Bourgade Catholic High School. A beautiful display of their creativity was on display for the entire school, friends and family to see and experience.
For as long as it takes, for as long as it hurts, keep moving forward.
Moving on after a breakup is downright difficult if not impossible. It feels like walking through thick, swampy mud—you try to move on but seem to be completely stuck in the past. These feelings are natural, normal even, after all breakups are a loss which means grief comes along inside the package of pain, angst, regret, confusion, anger and doubt.
