A Look Back at 2011

Last year was a busy year for me; it was also one of the best years I've had. Although I am listing many things that I learned during that time, it doesn't mean I'm finished learning. ;) I am still growing and applying these to my life now. I have always loved looking back on past events and remembering what happened. I hope that my reflecting back on the lessons I learned (and am still learning) will encourage you to do the same. Hebrews 12:1-2

-I learned how blessed I am to have the best church family ever. (gbccv.org)

-I learned that true friends are not something to lose or give up easily.

-I learned that God has a direction for each person’s life, but sometimes only God knows that direction.

-I learned that joy is a choice, not a feeling. It is only possible to “count it all joy” when we have humility. Joy comes from the Lord. (Nehemiah 8:10)

-I learned that reading the Foxe’s Book of Martyrs and Hebrews 11:35-40 puts a different perspective on the “impossible” things in life.

-I am learning that as a first-born, I am sometimes required to be the first to do something new, to say the first word, to be the first to give my thoughts, and to lead first by example.

-I am learning to put my family first. Helping my sis is sometimes more important than finishing an assignment and when my dad wants a family night, that should take priority over friends and other activities.

-I was reminded that it does not matter how short (or tall) I am, but rather it matters what kind of person I am and what kind of person I am striving to be.

-I am learning to pray in faith knowing and expecting God to work all things for my good.

-I learned about the BIG difference between the two kinds of love: the secular romantic love and the Biblical 1 Cor.13 kind of love.

-I learned that “deep thinking” is not wrong when it follows Philippians 4:8. In fact, thinking deeply about different topics is necessary for life. ;)

-I learned that sometimes a friend is someone who is just there to listen and pray.

-I learned how to treat guys as brothers in Christ.

-I learned what it means to stand alone.

-I learned how special friends were when I took a stand on something and they respect(ed) that.

-I am learning to appreciate, accept, and submit to the wisdom of my father.

-I am learning to deepen my sister relationships. My sisters and I will not always be together; we are now and I need to use that special time to the best of my ability. I began to appreciate them more this year. My sisters are wonderful. Thank you, Hannah and Sarah. Love you both. :D

(Hannah and Sarah)
-I learned that when a young person starts thinking about participating marriage that’s the time to start preparing for it.

-I learned that we are not to give up on anything or anyone. EVER. (as long as it falls within Biblical standards)

-I learned in a new way that life is extremely confusing. It is only through Christ that any of us live through it. “I can do all things through Christ that strengtheneth me.” (Phil.4:13)

-I defined success as is being in the center of God’s will, submitting to His leading, choosing joy, and trusting God through all circumstances.


What are some of the lessons you learned in 2011?


In Christ,
Kaleigh