Moment of Transparency
Lessons From the Highs and the Lows
As I get close to the end of 2025, I can’t help but pause and look back over the months behind me. Life has been a mix of incredible highs and painful lows, and in both places God has been present.
Some of the highs have been breathtaking: the joy of publishing my book, the official launch of the ministry website and Facebook page, the pride of watching my daughter graduate from college, my son thriving in his independence and the blessing of supporting my husband as he steps into new business ventures. I have witnessed God move powerfully in my life and in the lives of those I love, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
But alongside those moments of joy, I also found myself silently battling. Physically, my body felt like it was waging war against me. Pain, discomfort, constant fatigue, and relentless migraines left me drained. Mentally and emotionally, I was wrestling with anxiety, something I’ve battled for years. With the help of therapy and medication (another journey of acceptance in itself), I’ve begun to find balance. Yet even with that progress, there were days when I wanted nothing more than to pull the covers over my head and stay hidden away.
In those moments, I longed for people to show up for me, to send a call, a text, or even a word of encouragement. But instead, there was silence. The very people I expected to be there weren’t, and it was heartbreaking. The loneliness weighed heavily, and I struggled to keep showing up for my family and commitments when my own cup was empty.
Yet, in the quietness of that disappointment, God was gently teaching me to lean more on Him and less on others. He reminded me that while people may fail us, He never will:
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1
I also learned to treasure the support I did have my mother, my husband, my children, and the friends who gave without asking for anything in return. Slowly, I began to release the hurt, to make peace with my new normal, and to listen to my body and its needs. With the help of my doctors, I’m on the road to better health. And with prayer, I’m learning to accept that some people are only meant to be in my life for a season and that’s okay.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18
If there’s anything this season has taught me, it’s this: no matter who comes and who goes, God remains my constant. His presence doesn’t fade. His love doesn’t shift with circumstances. And His promises never fail.
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” — Hebrews 13:8
So as I close out this year, I do so with gratitude for the lessons learned, the strength I didn’t know I had, and the unwavering faithfulness of my Heavenly Father.
A Prayer
Father, I thank you for being my constant when everything else around me feels unstable. Thank you for walking with me through the highs and lows, for teaching me to lean on you when others cannot or do not show up. Heal my heart from places of hurt and disappointment, and continue to strengthen me physically, mentally, and spiritually. Help me to trust that you are working all things for my good, even when the road feels hard. Lord, let my story be a reminder to others that your presence is enough, and that in You we always find hope.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.