Reminded

My reflections haven't made it into writing recently, which has been unfortunate. I have worked through a lot since the start of school and as we reach the island of Christmas break, I can look back and thank God for bringing me this far. 2016 hasn't always been the easiest, it's pushed me, shaped me, and pointed me toward the person God wants me to be. I've been humbled in the past months by failures spiritually and relationally, but again those experiences have been molding moments. These moments are life-changing, and I refuse to use that term lightly. I continue to work through fear, pain, worry, and well...life. God has been good, and as I look back I can see how he has used each and every thing this year to bring me closer to the image of himself. My leadership ability has grown, my awe of God is larger, my efforts have been fruitful. God led me to Liberty University as my pick for college next year, he placed me into leadership via the office of Student Council President, and he continues to grow my responsibilities. He gave me an extra family member in my brother's new wife: Gwen. He helped me build my relationship with my parents with both of my brother's in college and he challenged me to stick to him through trials. Some may say that 2016 was a horrible year, but I don't think that's how I'll look back at it. Instead, it was a time of growth, along with the growing pains. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone. Here's to the unknowns of 2017 and beyond. Next stop: Graduation.