Grace in Progress: Life Lessons from 2024

 Hey Y’all!

Whew—what a year! Life has been a whirlwind with work deadlines, family chaos, and personal growth. But before we step into 2025, I need to pause and reflect on what 2024 taught me. In one word: EVERYTHING. Honestly, I feel like I lived 18 different lives in just 12 months. God really dedicated this year to "character development"—and let’s just say, I have some follow-up questions!

Looking back, the biggest lesson I learned was to trust myself. It sounds simple, but whew, it’s been a journey. I’ve had to make some of the hardest decisions of my life without knowing how things would play out. Anxiety and postpartum depression hit me like a ton of bricks, reshaping my entire world. And let me tell you, the way people treat you when you’re struggling still baffles me. But through it all, I believe God was strengthening me—mentally, emotionally, physically, financially—so I could grow spiritually.

One of the highlights of this growth was rejoining my old church, a place close to home where my girls and I can fellowship together. It feels like 2024 was a crash course preparing me for a more hopeful, intentional 2025.

I also just wrapped up my last therapy session of the year, and it was deep. We talked about grieving the life I thought I’d have by now and embracing the one I’m building. It’s tough letting go of old expectations, but I’m learning to extend myself the same grace I so freely give others.

My therapist left me with some powerful reflection questions for the new year:

  • How am I growing and winning?

  • Where do I see myself in five years? Do the people, places, and things around me align with that vision?

  • What do I require in future relationships?

  • Who am I, and where do I want to be?

I’m hopeful for 2025. I’ve been clearing up one-sided conflicts by expressing my feelings—even when closure isn’t guaranteed. I’m having honest check-ins with myself about where I stand as a single mom, professional, and spiritual being. I’m doing what’s possible and trusting God with the impossible.

I’m proud of where I am, even if it’s not exactly where I want to be. Progress is still progress.

So, what are YOU hoping for in the new year? What goals or resolutions are on your heart? Let’s step into 2025 with intention and hope.



Much love,

Xavia the Know-It-All (who knows nothing at all)

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