Bloom and Grow: My 2025 Recap and Birthday Reflections

As the year comes to a close, there's a song that's been resonating with me for a while now: "When I Think" by Ricky Dillard. This year hasn't been easy, but thankfully, it's not over yet. Reflecting on where I used to be, I'm thankful for everything I've experienced this year. 2025 has been okay, and I'm now gearing up for my 28th birthday to end the year.

In just four days, I'll turn 28. Honestly, I often feel like a child until I get a bill notification. Being 27 wasn't too bad, but it wasn't the greatest either. Most of the year was marked by financial instability and a disappointing love life. As a teacher, I find myself living paycheck to paycheck, which isn't ideal, and after a day with middle schoolers, I crave affection and love. With these needs unmet, it's been quite a tumultuous year.

Family drama has also peaked this year, leading me to love some family members from afar. I had to give up the car I was paying for because of a transmission failure, yet I'm still expected to make payments. My love life is extremely unstable. While others my age are married, in relationships, engaged, or have families, I'm still on my own. I'm unhappy with my job and, despite applying to various positions and even upgrading to LinkedIn Premium, I haven't secured a role in my desired field. This is just a snapshot of what 2025 has been like for me; there's more!

However, I'm learning to change my perspective and see the positives. Yes, my finances are lacking, but at least I have a job. My love life might be nonexistent, but I've learned to tell the difference between someone serious about me and someone who isn't. Teaching may not bring me joy, but happiness is something I need to find within myself, and it's a stepping stone toward my true passion in the literary field. My family may be divided now, but it's teaching me how to handle things with my future family. Although my car broke down, God didn't abandon me, and I managed to finance another car the next month. I should also mention that I passed my comprehensive exam and all my classes, so I'm officially part of the Master of Fine Arts Class of 2026.

God is working on me, whether I realize it or not. He's active in my life. I may not have the job, the love life, stability in all areas, or the ideal family dynamic right now, but I trust that this is all temporary. On December 30, 2025, I'll turn 28, and I'm excited to see where God leads me in 2026.