Trusting Grace

Dear 2018, You were not my favorite year, by far. You brought me hurt, stress, and anxiety that I had never known before going through the time you gave me. You caused me to go through a house fire, two intensely sprained ankles, family health issues, broken family dynamics, the beginning of toxic relationships, and the end of healthy ones. During your year I cried from pain more than I ever have, and when everyone cheered last night because of the start of 2019 I cheered too, because I am done with the trials you've given me. That being said, thank you 2018, for if I had not known your pain I would not experience joy in the same way. I would not be as strong as I am if it weren't for the trials you threw at me this year. This year, you taught me that painful goodbyes mean you've loved someone well, and sometimes a goodbye is all you need to change your life. You taught me to guard my heart, to love fiercely and widely, and to worry about my character before anyone else...