2017 in Retrospect and How to Rock 2018

Isn't it satisfying to know that the knots you thought you can barely surpass unknowingly unraveled and are now surprisingly working for your own good? Isn't it such a blessing to be able to contemplate and know that you can't thank God enough because He never failed you? 

Honestly speaking, my 2017 has been a little enough of everything. It has been a year of growth, discovery, acceptance, and resilience. Never did I imagine how the past 365 days helped me escape the darkness I have been into. Before and some days of 2017, I used to run away and was unable to bear with my own shortcomings. I used to lurk around the past memories and mistakes that inevitably bring me pins and needles. I used to repress all the emotions that bottled up for the longest time. I was blinded by distractions that used to overwhelm me. I did not know how and where to start again. That time, I remember how bad I wanted to have the ability to comprehend the future. I want to be able to just know the steps I have to take so I can continue surviving.

But 2017 offered a number of rooms for growth and showed how much there is in store for me. It has taught me the art of non-conformity - that I don't need to be bothered by what the world will tell me because we have our own paces. 

...that is why I found beauty in how enigmatic God's plans are. He doesn't explicitly lay all His cards right in front of us which makes us think why He is doing such thing. At some point, I realized that maybe He really wanted to test our faith in Him. Maybe, aside from the plans He have for us, He wanted us to work hard and prove that we deserve what's right for us. That may be the reason why it is flabbergasting when the time comes that we already figured how some things never worked for us before and why we needed to go through a lot before He hands over the reasons for our genuine happiness.

I am proud to say that I ended 2017 to a T and how I am eager to continue it and rock 2018. 

The last day of 2017 ended utterly fine that I felt all the warm fuzzies running through my whole body. It was the greatest plot twist that I ever had - to feel how one could be a blessing to a number of people and to know how one can touch so many people's hearts. I did not know how it happened but all I know is that everything seemed perfect. Every little thing fell into its own place. This is one reason why I wanted to share my favorite verses which also happened to be my 2018's divine guiding principles (naks!):

1. Isaiah 40:31

Accept that challenges are part of life and do not be dismayed. He will uphold you and you will always find new strength! :)

2. Romans 5:3-4

Be thankful for all the challenges along the way. Remember that soldiers do not win a war then show off perfectly fine. Those who went to real battles have scars but they always come out stronger and wiser.

3. Romans 8:31

Whenever there are times that you feel frail and you think that the universe is going against you, remember this. 

4. 1 Peter 5:7

Yes, your family and friends will express solicitude for you but God knows all your disquietude. Tell Him your inner torments and He will give you the warmest comfort that no one else can.

5. Jeremiah 29:11

Probably the most consoling verse for me especially at times when I feel mislead. We may always want things our way but His plans for us will prevail and it will forever be for our own purpose.

6. Philippians 2:3

I almost had a social anxiety that I find it exhausting to socialize and maintain a good profile for people. Now, I stick to my art of non-conformity and not think about what others would say. #DGAFGamingStrong. Also, let us do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit [just to show off], but in humility count others more significant than ourselves.

7. Proverbs 15:31

I learned that whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. Let this year be an eye-opener.

8. Proverbs 4:23

We are capable of self-sacrificing love because He first loved us. But in times of vulnerability, protect your heart [from loathing] for it flows the springs of life. 

9. Philippians 3:13

Cliche to say but what's in the past will never be changed. Just press on towards your goals. Keep your focus on reaching those goals!

10. Luke 1:37

Yes, through Him we can do anything, we can do all things 'cause it's Him who gives us strength. Laban lang lagi! :)

This 2018, I am happy to start off with a light and happy heart. The secret? Just appreciate what's in front of you now. Enjoy and cherish your journey even though you feel like you haven't done much and you are far away from accomplishing what you wanted. Give enough credits to yourself for striving hard because you deserve it. Always always believe in Him and believe that you can always do better. Right now, you are doing absolutely great! Claim it now, 2018 is your year and you are gonna rock it!