New Beginnings

A new year is a time to reflect on what is, what has been and what may be, on what we are grateful for and what we long for. We may make resolutions or set goals. And then grow frustrated with our lack of change. It is helpful for me to remember I have the opportunity for new beginnings every day. Any time we determine to make a change, or to take a new perspective. Any time we apply what we are learning and reach out with renewed love, we are making new beginnings.

I recently finished an intense season of my life, completing my life-long goal of earning a PhD. With the weight and responsibility of that endeavor off my shoulders, I’m rediscovering many other valuable pursuits I’d put on the back burner. The end of one chapter is the beginning of another.

After my daughter came out as transgender, I toiled for many months under intense emotional, cognitive, spiritual and social burdens. There was a lot of pain as I rewrote my understandings, grieved what I thought I’d had, navigated painful social situations, and began to question my religious traditions. I didn’t know it then, but it was also the beginning of a process that transformed me and which I have become deeply grateful for.

Joyful and painful experiences may spark new beginnings. What are yours?

Julia Bernards