Good bye 2018, hello 2019 – the year of opportunity

🥂Happy New Year, y’all! 🥂

I was too busy reflecting, cleaning, and celebrating yesterday to write this post, but here’s hoping some part of this post encourages you. 🥰

2018 was a year for the books. It was a year where dreams started coming true (not just for me, but for some of my favorite people), a year where I surrounded myself by amazingly strong and passionate people, a year of professional, personal, and spiritual growth, and a year of holding on to God so hard because growth can be painful! John 15:2 says He cuts off every branch of mine that does not produce fruit, and He prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.

Since my first trip to Transnistria, God has been clear about His purpose for me. He wants to use my physical weaknesses to bring glory to His kingdom by advocating for people with disabilities and their families. This past year I met with legislators, fellow educators, families, and others who have a vested interest in social justice issues. I’ve attended professional conferences on policy making and advocacy, facilitated service integration meetings and professional developments (even one in Transnistria!). I am excited about the progress being made to bridge the gap between public education and post secondary/the world of work for those with disabilities. All of this was completely out of my comfort zone, and I am well aware that I may never benefit from these changes (change is slow). I’m not telling you all of this to showcase how wonderful I am, but I’m hoping you find encouragement to pursue God’s plan for your life, even if you have to step out of your comfort zone. Jeremiah 29:11 says for I know the plans I have for you, they are plans for good, to give you a hope and a future.

💕 💕I got to do what I LOVE this year. Work with children and families, teach, spread the love of Christ, advocate, go to concerts, travel to Atlanta to be in fellowship with strong adults who are impacted by muscular dystrophy, dance, horseback ride, build relationships, love on orphans, and of course spend time with family and friends.

Dreams came true for many of my loved ones too, but their story is not mine to tell. However, I will say, I’m the maid of honor in a 2019 wedding.💒

I’m not going to hide behind a screen and pretend my life is picture perfect; I’m going to be vulnerable here. We all know that life has it’s trying times (insert another choice word here if you so wish), and although I had a great year, I was challenged hardcore this year. Loss is depressing, work can be draining, dating is painful, degenerative disabilities suck, relying on others for ADLs tried my patience, anxiety is real, and relationships are work. But these are the times I’ve had to hold on to God with all my heart. I’ve learned a lot about myself and about Him in 2018, and I know my faith is truly above my ability!

I’m excited for what is in store and all the growth that will take place. Here’s to a 2019 full of love, joy, good health, kindness, and opportunity! 🌟

Xo Jess

P.s. If I can be of support to you, even if I don’t know you, please reach out; we all need listening ears.