2013 in Review

It's that time of the year again. A time for reflecting. A time of joy. A time of happiness. A time to recount blessings, to make resolutions and to reevaluate our lives.
Here's to 2013, the year where everything changed.

In reality, it was 2012 when I knew my life would be a bit different. After the prophet of my church changed the missionary age, I knew things would be different, as did everyone else. But I didn't think things would affect me as much. 

Now, looking back, I have been given new opportunities and blessings from those changes. This year, many of my friends left to serve the Lord which scared me. I don't like change and I didn't like the thought of making new friends...again. Luckily, my Father in Heaven knows that too and brought my new roommates and friends into my life, where we instantly clicked and I can't imagine if I would have met these amazing examples in my life without the change.

It seems like forever ago...but it was only 11 months ago that I was in my life - changing car accident. I knew in that instant that things would be different. However, from that experience, I realized how people all over really care. I knew that before but the out pouring of love, empathy, and help I received reinforced that idea. My physical health comes and goes but I have made an effort to be grateful every time I go running or walk to campus or even get comfortable in bed every night. Yes, I'm not perfect and I still complain my head off but hey, there's a new years resolution!

From my car accident, I learned a lot about the Atonement of Jesus Christ. In those nights when I was alone and hurting, I turned to my Savior who suffered for me personally and felt His arms around me. I learned a lot from those experiences. They gave me strength to make changes in my life that I needed. The Atonement is real and it can help everyone. It's not just to make bad people good, but it is equally used to make good people better.

In my studies with sociology this year, I have learned statistics and studies that show the world is becoming a scary place. However, I choose to look for the good in the world. Through my studies, I learned a lot about the people around me and I feel I can better interact with people I come in contact with.

While there are many signs that show the world is increasingly becoming wicked and scary, I know that if we each do our part and become active in our lives, we can find happiness in the darkest of times. I know I have this year. Without darkness, we would never know happiness. Without trials, we would never know the good times. I hope that we realize the good ole days before they leave and we reflect on another year. Goodbye 2013. You were good to me. I welcome 2014 and any changes or challenges that come.