In transitions, it's easy to compartmentalize our feelings, ignore them altogether, or dwell on how we want things to be, rather than accepting the discomfort of a new state of being. In the unexpected or unpredictable, can we find God in the paradox of new beginnings and letting go? I believe we can.

The tensions and irreconcilable juxtapositions have purpose. Sometimes we receive glimpses of their gifts, but even if you never see their goodnesses this side of eternity, they do exist. Here’s my tribute to a year that could have taken me under, but I choose to see it for what it is on the flip side: blessing.