The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

~John 1:5

2016 has not been the best year of my life.  It may be the only year where I can say I have had more losses than gains.  I had a cousin, who always felt more like an uncle to me,  who killed himself.  I have an Aunt who died in a disturbing way and it still makes me cry anytime I think of it.  I lost a friend and I cannot even describe the pain associated with all of that. There are the things I choose to keep unmentionable as well.

I have experienced so much hurt this year and one positive thing I can say is my faith has not weakened.

I’m not sure what 2017 holds.  Will it be better or worse?  Who knows.

God recently reminded me that through it all He will not leave me or forsake me…which happens to be my confirmation verse. I feel a pull in me to embrace my kindness even more and not to allow the things of this world change who He made me to be. I feel I can continue on with a smile on my face.

It is okay to rely on Him and not look to the world for strength.

When someone refuses to see me for who I am it doesn’t change who I am.  It never will… unless I allow it.

Sometimes those who you think are there for you, really aren’t. I have to love them regardless. God keeps reminding me it is them and their deep pains that life has thrown at them…it isn’t me.

Oh, I feel better after whining.  Thanks, blog!