It’s been approximately three years since my last blog post, and honestly, I wasn’t sure if I would ever return to blogging. Despite taking a hiatus from formal writing, I continued to journal and jot down thoughts here and there because there’s an inexplicable sense of peace that comes with putting pen to paper. In the past, I used to meticulously list down my goals and write a prayer to God every New Year’s Eve. However, as 2023 drew to a close, I opted not to engage in that ritual. The year was a mix of beauty, heartbreak, and overwhelming moments.
Challenges are an inevitable part of life, and as I reflect on the goals I set for 2023, the inner overachiever and perfectionist in me sometimes label me as a failure. While I acknowledge that this perception is far from the truth, it’s easy to get caught up in the unchecked boxes on my vision board. This year, I’ve chosen to forgo setting specific goals or New Year’s resolutions. Instead, I’m embracing a more fluid approach, engaging in monthly reflections, and enjoying life day by day, understanding that tomorrow will bring its own set of challenges.
To be clear, I’m not advocating against New Year’s resolutions or suggesting a “go with the flow” mentality. Personally, I thrive on structure in all aspects of my life, and going with the flow isn’t an option. What I am emphasizing is the importance of having a plan but not getting so fixated on checking boxes that you overlook the beauty in the journey, the small milestones, and unintentional accomplishments that often go unnoticed.
If I were to summarize 2023 in three words, they would be Family, Acceptance, and God. Family dynamics can be challenging, but taking a moment to appreciate their support, whether big or small, reveals the true value of familial bonds. Acceptance played a significant role in my life last year. I had to come to terms with situations, accepting them for what they were rather than what I wanted them to be. Learning to play the hand I was dealt and practicing self-acceptance made navigating certain situations easier.
Also, I’ve come to realize that when we struggle to embrace ourselves, flaws and all, it becomes challenging to embrace others. The more critical we are of ourselves, the more likely we are to be critical of those around us, and that’s simply not fair. Embracing people for who they are allows us to understand them better, establish necessary boundaries, and in turn, life becomes a tad bit more manageable.
God: I always joke that I am God’s favorite child because when I look at my life, there’s nothing that I have ever asked God for, from a place of goodness and selflessness that he hasn’t given me. The pivotal theme of God underscores my journey. Trusting Him completely, having faith, working hard, and letting go are essential for His transformative work in our lives. I am continuing to learn that I have to be extremely specific when I pray. When my prayers and life decisions/choices didn’t align, God had an interesting way of reminding me. He has a way of guiding us through a process which usually includes breaking us down in order to rebuild, as he doesn’t always follow our preferred methods.
Furthermore, I’m realizing that when we’re genuinely ready for the next steps in our lives and place our faith in Him, He provides the strength and opportunity we need, irrespective of the circumstances.
Welcoming 2024 surrounded by my family, including my favorite human born a day after my birthday in 2023, I find myself desiring peace of mind and continued trust in God for the year ahead. I am no motivational speaker, but I sense that this year holds promise.
There are a few things I am looking forward to this month and I am actually excited about them.
If you’ve made it to the end, I invite you to subscribe or share your thoughts if you resonate with these reflections.
Alieh Kimbeng 