Happy new month my amazing community.
I woke up a before yesterday, and picked up my phone after my quiet time, opened my WhatsApp and all I could see on everyone's status was “Happy new month, HNM” and all of that. That was when it dawned on me that this is real, not some sort of imagination. Huhh… it's the last month of the year, something that started what seems like a few days ago, has almost ended.
As December begins, I just find myself reflecting on everything this year has been, the storm, the lesson, the surprising moment of growth that appeared when I least expected it.
If I am being honest, 2025 did not welcome me gently. It started on a rough note, shaking almost every aspect of my life. Academically, I faced challenges that stretched me beyond what I thought I could handle, the late nights, moments of struggle, heavy eyes, and moments I never thought could pass.
In my family, there were moments of pressure, uncertainty, and emotional weight that made the days feel longer than usual. We lost and buried two persons this same year (my grandmother and my uncle).
Personally as well, I encountered experiences that tested my patience, it wasn't an easy ride I must say.
But looking back now, I can say each part of this journey molded, and transformed me into a better version of me. Every high and low came with its own hidden message.
There were times I felt like giving up, times I questioned myself, but you know what?? I'd always remind myself why I started and shouldn't give up. I knew all of those things happening at that moment was a process of growth, I only kept trying even when it seemed like it wasn't going to work.
And yet, here I am, standing, breathing, learning, and growing. Sometimes we don’t realize our strength until life leaves us no choice but to use it.
“You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice.”
_Bob Marley
Despite how rough the beginning of this year felt, the middle slowly began to shift, and the end brought light I didn’t see coming.
November, especially, felt like a reward for all the silent battles, prayers, and efforts I poured into myself. One of the most significant blessings I received this year was gaining my RN.
That achievement alone filled my heart with so much joy and gratitude. It reminded me that progress sometimes is slow, steady, quiet, and deeply meaningful.
And now, here comes December, the last month of the year. There is something about this month that feels symbolic. It reminds me to be grateful for the moments I survived, the goals I achieved, the opportunities that found me, and even the challenges that refined and made me.
As I step into this final chapter of the year, I choose to move with gratitude, peace, and hope. I choose to appreciate how far I’ve come instead of focusing on what didn’t go as planned, ‘cos I actually had a lot I wanted to achieve this year. I've chosen to celebrate the woman I am becoming, stronger, wiser, and more intentional.
And most importantly, I've chosen not to give up. Because no matter how this year started, it didn’t end without blessings. And if I can survive everything 2025 threw my way, then 2026 can only get better.
I'm glad that December is here, a season I always look forward to, to celebrate and bond with my family. See those relatives I haven't seen in a year now.
December, it's not just about celebration, it's also a month of reflection, gratitude, healing, and quiet expectations. A month to breathe. A month to prepare for the next year, a month to believe in yourself again.
So here's to December 🥂
SHALOM
I invite @tehreem and @delcastillo to make their entry