no expectation no sorrow

Every year since 2008, I've made up a yearly motto for myself. It's just silly stuff, but it's what I find myself saying during circumstances in that year.

2008: Last Chance
2009: Que Sera Sera
2010: All In: Hakuna Matata
2011: Life Goes On: Fake It Til You Make It
2012: No Expectations, No Sorrow

At the start of 2012, there were circumstances that had catalyzed a certain degree of spiritual maturity in me. I was truly grateful for the work God was doing in my life. Never have I felt His strength and comfort more than I had at that time. What followed was definitely something I had not expected. My motto for this year was No Expectations, No Sorrow, but that statement is flawed. Sorrow will always come, whether expected or not.

My popularity somehow increased this year. It caught me off guard. I tried to handle each situation as best as I could. Each situation basically ending the same way. They ended. A choice was made, and I plan on sticking to it.

Another big character development for me this year was my summer-long unemployment. My faith has never been tested the way it was. I did a lot of wrestling with myself and God. He revealed a lot to me during that time. The trials may be taking a break, but I know there'll be new ones in the new year.

For 2013 I am hoping to graduate. By God's grace this time next year I'll finally have a bachelor's degree. If not, I'll graduate definitely spring 2014. It's the final stretch, and I have two math classes that I have to take. Ugh.

I'm so thankful for my job. I adore the kids that I work with. I pray that I can make a godly impact on my coworkers and that they can see Christ working in me in this coming new year. There's times when I pout about my pay, but God always provides. Somethings I learned this year:
- Praise precedes victory (a Christian doesn't praise God only during good times, but especially during the bad).
- My(God is personal) God is faithful(He never changes. He stays the same. Always good, always kind). He will provide(Faith is expecting. Put your doubts aside).
- Grace(stop taking this for granted) frees us from the bondage(stop getting entangled once again) of sin.

I had come up with a motto for 2013, but I forgot what it was! Since school is my main goal for this year, maybe my motto will be: "Cross the finish line!"

It's been a pretty crazy year to say the least. Weddings and engagements here, there, and everywhere. My church is undergoing a pastoral search. I paid off my car. I drove to NC twice this year. I have locolegs. People are leaving and have left. My piano student performed a piece in the Christmas program at his school, and he didn't even make a mistake. I like salads now.

Cheers to a new year!


Soli Deo Gloria