2023 Year in Review

There are years that ask questions and years that answer." ~Zora Neale Hurston, Their Eyes Were Watching God."

2023 asked many questions, and I'm still searching for answers.

It's good to question because it forces us to dig deeper, become more self-aware, and ultimately become more courageous as we answer those questions. I asked myself about my circumstances, friendships, and relationships. I even directed some of these questions to  God, which was not an exercise in futility. I was pointed to Him and His word for answers. About answers - they're still showing up. 

Here are some light-hearted questions that I try to answer as I turn the page to a new year.

What did you do in 2023 that you'd never done before?

I went on a yacht; it was better than I expected.

Did anyone close to you give birth?

Yes.

Did anyone close to you die?

No; however, quite a few members from my first home church passed away. The funerals were a mini-reunion.

What countries did you visit?

Jamaica; it's always Jamaica.

What dates from 2023 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? 

April 30th, when we moved to GA, and family reunions on both sides of the family in July.

What was your most significant achievement of the year?

Surviving and increasing my faith.

What was your biggest failure? 

My biggest failure is hard to quantify. Life is imperfect, and I've made mistakes, but I can't point to one thing as my biggest failure.

Did you suffer illness or injury? 

Besides getting one year older, thankfully, no.

What did you get really excited about? 

Pursuing new opportunities professionally, learning my new neighborhood, making new friends, hosting Christmas, having all my children around, breathing, laughing. You get the idea - everything!

Compared to this time last year, are you:

Happier or sadder? Happier! 

Thinner or fatter? I remain the same size – thin-ish!

Richer or poorer? We have what we need.

What do you wish you'd done more of?

Be more assertive with offers of help by saying, "How can I help you?"

How did you spend Christmas? 

For the first time in forever, we had over 30 people at our home for an epic Christmas day dinner. It might be the start of a new Christmas tradition.

What was your favorite music from this year?

My favorite music genres are Gospel and reggae (I don't think this will ever change).

What were your favorite films of the year? 

The Color Purple is better than I thought it would be.

What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? 

I gave myself a mani and pedi and then went to the spa for a deep tissue massage. Later on, we had dinner at a local restaurant. This year was special because all my children and grandchildren and family from overseas were there to celebrate with me. I can't believe I'm over 50; I feel good.

What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? 

Nothing; I'm grateful for the way things are.

How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2023?

Coastal grandma.

What kept you sane? 

Good conversations with my husband and good friends, praying, reading, writing, and working out. 

Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2023.

Knowing that God is in control - always has and always will be so I don't need to feel sorry for myself. Every day I'm alive is another to give thanks and do what He's called me to do. My mission field is changing, but it's worth it as long as I can live in a way that pleases Him.

 I want you to know that you are never alone, regardless of how your year went - whether it was the best or worst year of your life. God is with you each step of the way. Lean on Him for wisdom, understanding, and direction because he cares about every aspect of your life. I know with assurance that God is with me in the ordinary moments of life. He is molding me into the person I'm becoming, even at this stage of the game.

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. John 14:1 KJV

This blog has weathered some storms this year, but it is still here. I am grateful for every reader, every like, every share, every comment, and email. Dear reader, you encourage me by taking the time to read what God has laid on my heart. Be encouraged.

If you love my writing, I hope you'll purchase a copy of my book - The Comfort of Night. 

May your days be merry and bright. Have a wonderful year.

--Nylse

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