Chapter 29
good things happen in chapters
Wow, it’s been some time since I last wrote! I’m unsure how your new year has kicked off, but mine has been a whirlwind of activities. Between holidays, visiting family and friends, ministry work, moving into a new apartment, going on dates, attending youth basketball games, and navigating another transition, this year has been incredibly busy and swift for me. As I write this, I’ve just wrapped up celebrating my 29th birthday with friends and a weekend packed with youth retreat fun. This was the first youth retreat that I had the chance to lead and teach at. While I can think of plenty of things I would do differently next time, I’m truly thankful for how the Lord showed up, and His presence was undeniable. I’ve scheduled a few days away to recharge and reset before diving back into everything. I also realized I hadn’t taken time for my birthday reflections. So, without further ado, here are some thoughts on my 28th year.
Humility really suits me! It might sound strange to say this, but as I grow older and deepen my relationship with Jesus while walking alongside others, I find there’s no space left for pride and self-righteousness. Those traits are unattractive and don’t fit me or you. So, let’s choose humility instead.
Sometimes, you just have to take the initiative. I learned this lesson quickly after entering full-time ministry. We often fall into the trap of thinking that if we wait for someone else to step up—whether to serve, show generosity, or embrace vulnerability—we can sit back and let others lead. But the truth is, we won't make much progress if we’re simply waiting for others to act. So, leap and go first!
If you’re not having fun often, you genuinely do it wrong. I’m a sucker for fun moments (although I don’t like forced fun, haha) but seriously, I had some of the most fun within the last year and I’m so grateful that is cultivated into my life rhythms.
Dating should be a joy! When I moved from Philly to another part of Pennsylvania, I never imagined I’d find myself dating again—not here in Hershey, haha. The options seemed so limited. After going through a tough breakup, I wasn’t looking for anyone—I was focusing on my relationship with the Lord. However, it’s funny how the Lord works; He allowed me to be pursued in a healthy and refreshing way. I must say, dating has turned out to be so much FUN!
Surround yourself with healthy people! This is vital—if you’re single and aspire to marry and start a family, engage with married couples and their families. If your goal is to grow into a healthier individual, then connect with others who are also focused on well-being. One of my fondest memories is living with a wonderful family; I cherished my time with them, and we had much fun together. However, I observed and learned about partnership, communication, stewardship, and so much more.
Ultimately, God's plans far exceed anything I could have ever imagined. If you had asked me ten years ago whether I thought I would be where I am today, I would have laughed out loud. Yet, here I am, embracing the path that God has laid out for me. I’m truly grateful that His thoughts and ways are much higher and better than mine.
Year 28 brought a mix of tears, laughter, joy, pain, fun, and all kinds of goodness. I have a strong feeling that this upcoming year will be the best one yet! Cheers to 29!
Teems
Cheers! You’ve got this, and God’s got you!