Another Year of Learning to Love Who I Am

October 4th was my 47th birthday. And the birthday weekend wrapped up in much the same way this entire year has been for me.

It didn’t go as planned. At all.
And I learned a lot.

This past year has been the most refining of my life, personally and professionally. Sure, I have grown and changed, because if you aren’t doing that, well, you’re just dying faster than you already are.

More than the growth and change, life and God have refined, revealed, pressed, pruned, and confirmed who I am, how I am created and wired, and my full, true identity.

And I’ve accepted, held, and can finally say I worked for, now understand, and fully love her all.

She is not always convenient, and not always easy to understand.

You may say particular; I say boundaried.
You may say rigid; I say routined.
You may say opinionated; I say convicted.
You may say boring; I say well.
You may say weird; I say wise.
You may say bossy; I say motherly.
You may say strong; I say deserving of resilient well-being.
You may say brave; I say obedient.
You may say obedient; I say loved.

Here is to another year I am so grateful for, and one where I no longer have to wonder if I like surprises, even when planned with the greatest intentions of care and love. I do not!

I am not wired to receive love that way.
And that lesson seems like an incredible one to receive and walk out.

Picture: one of the prettiest teacups I’ve ever seen on our bday antiquing trip.