“And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.”‭‭ Luke‬ ‭2:19

There were a lot of things that happened in my life in 2016. I was given a promotion, started to coach five (5) teams and learned new skills. For me and my family, we finally had our own house. I also started living independently and pursued my graduate studies. I fulfilled my childhood dream of going to Japan to which I didn't realize I will at any point in my life. I also get to travel with my mom and Ray to Boracay and enjoyed every second of it. I also met new friends who share the same passion in singing and strengthened relationships I treasure the most. It was a year full of blessings.

2016 was also the year where I was at my lowest. This is the year where I started to get eaten alive by stress and pressure in the workplace. I compromised my health in order to get things done. I hated people to the bones. I thought and spoke ill about them. I failed to understand. Pride overtook my life. My debts piled up leaving me almost penniless. But I need to put on the facade of a perfect person so I just sucked it up and told myself, I can do it, even if I can't. Then I started questioning my existence - just like Rick Warren's book - what on earth am I here for? I was stuck. I didn't know what to do. I resorted to drinking the unanswered questions inside of me, hoping that it will help me forget and get moving. But it wasn't the case. I didn't see everyday as another day to change and start over again. It was an endless hole of frustration and anxiety.

But this year was the year I get to know God better. He has shown Himself during the darkest days of my life. The days when I thought I can't anymore, He will embrace me and assure me that I still can. That I can get over that hell of a life I've been in. I can if I just hold onto Him and keep my faith. I did. I fell many times and refused but I tried again. Up to now, I can't say that I am 100% okay; but I am holding on to His promise that one day, I can. My faith is my weapon.

Now, 2017 is here. A fresh start for each and everyone of us. I declare that with everything that I have that this year will be another year to grow and improve as a person. God has equipped us with His gifts and His truth that He will be with us in every step of the way. Just like Mama Mary in the gospel today, I keep all what has happened in 2016 in my heart, whether good or bad, because of these things didn't happen, I won't be the person I am now. Let us be grateful with every day the Lord has given us for this will lead us to be a better version of ourselves than we were in the past. God bless us all. Happy new year!

Lord, I pray for each person reading this that they may embrace this new year with open arms. Guide us to be the greatest person we can ever be! Amen.