As the year comes to a close, I recently had a conversation about my perspective on 2023. For the first five minutes of the conversation, I spewed off the top negative things that I’ve experienced this year. One by one I allowed the hardest moments of this year to roll off my tongue. Even as I spoke, I said, “I am not trying to be negative, but….”

I remember when I first “truly” surrendered my life to Christ. I was a hot mess! I didn’t get euphoric feelings of release or an immediate life-altering Saul-like conversion. I was wavering, fighting every day to allow my life choices to line up with my heart’s decision. I failed more often than not.