Birthday Plot Twist
On September 22, I celebrated another birthday—and who knew it would be the new year I truly needed?
✨ New joy.
✨ New endurance.
✨ New hope.
It was the burst of energy I needed to press through the final scenes of my current season.
If I could describe life right now through the lens of the storytelling model, I’d say I’m in the falling action stage. The conflict that rose out of the climax of this season is beginning to resolve. The pace is slowing down as complications untangle.
And thankfully, the next stage is resolution—that moment of finality and closure when lessons take root, and what was meant to be gained from the conflict becomes clear.
While I wait for “The End” to arrive, here are three lessons I’m carrying with me into this new year of life:
Start each month with a fast. It sets the spiritual tone, serves as a wellness check for the soul, and prepares me for whatever the new month may bring.
Regularly assess your circle for missions, meals, and misery (a principle from Dr. Sarita Lyons). Seasons change, and change changes people—so I must keep reevaluating who I partner with in ministry, who I share meals with, and who I entrust with my burdens.
Mark each birthday with a new goal or challenge. Success becomes a gift I give myself, and the journey sparks growth and inspiration for the year ahead.
This year, I didn’t just count years and blessings—I also counted lessons. And what a beautiful reminder it is: as long as the Lord chastens and corrects me, it’s proof of His love.
Thank You, Jesus, for another year of life, health, and relationship with You.