Writing this post feels so surreal. Not because I’m now 48. Rather, I am writing about my 10 year Anniversary. Ten years ago, Pots changed my entire life. As most of you know, the journey has been seemingly unending at times. There were many sleepless nights. I remember the constant sensation of fireworks exploding inside of me. For years, I was unable to look at an iPad or TV screen without severe nausea and dizziness. Showering became a dreaded chore. I required assistance for the smallest of tasks. I would sit in a dark quiet room alone for many hours of the day. It felt as though my body abandoned my mind. It was frightening, humbling, confusing, and heart breaking.

Now, ten years later, a lot of “life” has transpired. My children are older. I moved to a new city. In some ways, I have completely started over. I recently shared how I was able to attend a ring ceremony for my son at The Citadel. The very place my body completely broke down ten years prior. It was my first time being able to travel that distance. Walking my son, arm in arm, across the stage during the ceremony was priceless. It was a beautiful moment. The place I lost control of my body, became the place I walked in victory, arm in arm with my son.

One of the most beautiful lessons I have learned through illness, is intense pain and intense grace can co exist. We have the capacity to hold space for both. At first, it does not make sense. But in time, we learn our “capacity” to experience anything, has far more to do with Who created us. Even in our mother’s womb, we were equipped to not only survive our circumstance, but also thrive. Christ is the key that unlocks every door. He doesn’t just bring comfort. He IS comfort. He doesn’t just share hope. He IS hope. He is the catalyst to inner peace in the midst of the storm. It’s a fallacy to believe as Christians, we are exempt from suffering. We will ALL suffer at some point in this lifetime. It’s purpose was never meant to show how strong we are. But rather, to experience the life giving power of Christ within each of us intimately.

Recently, I was told “Tradition kills”. I love tradition! So I was intrigued to hear more. He shared about the beauty of tradition. Core memories throughout our lifetime are often rooted in tradition. But sometimes, we become so set in our ways, we can miss the opportunity for something new, fresh, and even life giving to bloom. In my experience, Jesus often moves completely different than I anticipate. Yet, His way is always the best way.

Leaving space for the beauty of tradition, while also being open to change can be the catalyst for new growth. There is something miraculously beautiful that occurs when we open our hearts to His ways. It becomes a fluid dance of tradition, supernatural inspiration, and life giving hope and peace. His ways are not confined by human limitations. We can trust Him fully. Even when the outcome looks completely contrary to how we envisioned.

I can only speak from personal experience. But today, I am so thankful for His plan. There is nothing I have “lost”. Instead, He has given me far more than I could ever ask. He is healing my body. He has healed my heart. I absolutely love this new season of my life. Not because it is perfect, but rather full of grace, peace, hope and excitement for today and beyond. While also knowing whatever tomorrow holds, I know Who holds tomorrow in His hands. For me, that is more than enough. My cup runeth over.