As the year is coming to an end and I look back to all that I’ve been through this year, I came to a conclusion that this year is by far the best despite of the pandemic and the chaos that came through. Here are the ten reasons (though there are more) why.
1. Becoming a mom
It’s one of the best things that has ever happened to me. God fulfilled a desire that has been ingrained in my heart long before I got married. About a year ago, I attended a women’s retreat with such hope and expectation that God is going to birth a new thing through me. I shared it with a sister from church and she prayed with me for a baby. After coming home from the retreat, the first thing I did was take a pregnancy test and it came out positive. The journey from pregnancy to motherhood wasn’t easy yet God’s grace was so evident as He provided everything I needed especially strength. The joy of becoming a mother is incomparable and I am so grateful that God let me have this privilege.
2. Overcoming PPD
Due to the pandemic, no one was allowed to stay with me at the hospital when I delivered my baby and that was extremely hard. Unmet expectations made it worst. With the painful recovery, lack of sleep and fatigue in taking care of a newborn, my mental health suffered and I experienced postpartum depression. I got more and more irritated, angry and lonely. I am so grateful for a patient, understanding and supportive husband who is a real gift from God for sticking with me through those hard times. Also to friends and mentors who prayed with me and walked me through it.
3. My refugee friends’ resettlement
God answered a prayer for a refugee family that is very dear to my heart. For over a decade of praying, God finally answered and gave them a resettlement. I believe that His timing is perfect and this year is the perfect time. I have learned so much through this family and journeying with them was truly a humbling experience.
4. Moving up of my advisory class
I’m so glad to be able to see my advisory class graduate primary school before I left. I taught them for three years and they became very close to me. When I became pregnant, I feared that I would leave before the school year is over but the pandemic was actually a blessing in disguise since online teaching made it possible for me to finish the school year with them.
5. Good health of my loved-ones
I’m so grateful that God kept my family and loved-ones in good health all throughout the year.
6. Genuine friends near and far
I am so blessed with amazing friends in all seasons of my life but this year, I came to value genuine friends even more. They were there when I needed help, took care of me when I was sick, celebrated with me, prayed for me, gave me advice, listened to me, cried with me and supported me. They are a true blessing!
7. Fellowship and sumptuous meals
I love connecting and having fellowship over meals. Because of the pandemic and social distancing, it has been a rare thing this year yet I remember every chance we could eat together with friends.
8. Moving to our own place
We’re beyond blessed to be able to purchase our own space in the midst of the pandemic. God provides indeed. He made a way when there seems to be no way. He gave us exactly what we need at the right time.
9. Smooth transition to a new city
Moving out of a comfort zone is always challenging but I’m grateful for the smooth transition to this city. We were warmly welcomed by friends, old and new ones. I‘m adjusting well and I like it here a lot.
10. Long walks
I had the most frequent walks this year and I just love these long walks especially with scenic views. A walk in the nature is always so refreshing and rejuvenating. Another special thing about it was the quality time spent with my husband and deep conversations we had while walking.
I don’t know what the future holds and what awaits me in 2021 but I know the One who holds the future and that gives me peace as I welcome the coming year.
I wish you all a blessed and bountiful New Year!
Avalanche of Grace 