As 2025 comes to a close, and as someone who is an internal processor, I’ve been taking time the past few days to pause and reflect on the past year. This year has been full. Full of joy, growth, healing, surrender, and moments that changed me both physically and spiritually. And before turning the page to a new chapter, I want to take the time to honor the incredible year that was 2025.

Special Milestones and Moments

One of the best decisions I made this year was to add a new member to our family. Maple, our kelpie puppy. She might steal my hubby’s garden ornaments and kidnap shoes to sleep on, but she also makes me smile daily and reminds me to stop and be present. Going outside each day to throw her a ball or play tug-of-war has been good for my physical and mental health.

Our children also had big milestones. Little T turned 13 and is officially a teenager. Her confidence, creativity, musical gifts, and the way she articulates her thoughts and questions the world amaze me. Watching her perform is always a highlight; her courage and beautiful voice fill me with pride.
Mr L turned 15, stepping into greater independence and responsibility, including starting his first job. He is growing into such a kind, caring young man who has a love for cars and computers. Watching both of our children become who they are meant to be makes me feel like my hubby and I are doing something right.

One of the most significant moments happened in March when I was baptised. Giving my life to God was a huge step, and without doubt, the greatest gift I have ever received. My relationship with God continues to grow daily, bringing a sense of peace, strength, and joy I didn’t know I was missing. Alongside this, the friendships I’ve formed and the support of my church, pastors, family, and friends have been deeply healing.

I also turned 40 this year, and instead of a big celebration, I chose an afternoon of crafting with the incredible women who enrich my life. We also celebrated my dad’s 70th birthday surrounded by family, a beach getaway where my family completed Alpha with a friend and her family (a Christian course that explores life, faith, and meaning through open and honest conversation), and a special trip to the Gold Coast with Little T and friends, including a day at SeaWorld. Watching my daughter fearlessly take on rollercoasters while I cheered her on is a memory I’ll always treasure. At that time, I still needed a wheelchair for big days. Sometimes it’s hard to comprehend how far I’ve come.

Healing, Trust, and Learning to Listen

The second half of the year saw a huge shift in my health. There was a time when it was hard to imagine my body and brain ever being well enough to walk more than a few steps, to go a day without a non-epileptic seizure, to walk without a strange gait, or to live without constant dystonia in my left arm, hand, and feet. The idea of living that way forever was heartbreaking, yet something in me refused to believe that was how my story would end.

I’m incredibly grateful the story I feared would be my future has turned a new page. That’s not to say I don’t still have hard days or that flare-ups won’t happen, but I now know I can get through them. I’ve learned to trust my body again, to listen to it, and to honour what each season teaches me.

Another profound gift of 2025 was stepping into my role as a school Chaplain. It was something God kept placing in my path, but after the devastation of leaving my youth worker role due to my health, I kept pushing it away. Taking that leap required trust. Trust that this was what God was calling me to do, and that He would give me the strength I needed each workday. I now know this is exactly where I’m meant to be in this season, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity.

When I reflect on this year, one lesson stands above the rest. When I trust God, He comes through. Not always in the way I expect, but always in the way I need.

Stepping into 2026

As I look toward 2026, I feel grounded, hopeful, and quietly excited. I’m looking forward to returning to my chaplain role. I’ve intentionally built new rhythms into my days which include time for rest, time with God, and time for creativity, so I can show up fully for my family, my work, and myself.

I hope my health continues to improve so I can walk further and for longer, that I have fewer tics and spasms, and less pain. I’m choosing to step into this year with trust rather than fear.

Creatively, I’m ready to start writing novels again. This time, without the pressure I used to put on myself. My New Year’s resolution is to reignite the joy writing once brought me. I’m currently mapping out a new series, and it feels exciting to be delving back into my imagination again and creating something aligned with who I have become over the past few years.

I pray that my hubby and I continue to grow closer, communicating well and intentionally making time for each other. I’m looking forward to a family holiday mid-year and ticking another item off my bucket list. More than anything, I’m entering 2026 with joy and anticipation, knowing there will be trials, but also knowing I am not walking into them alone.

If you’re reflecting on your own year, I encourage you to honour both the highs and the lows. There is wisdom in the hard seasons and beauty in the growth they bring. Sometimes the most transformative lessons come from the chapters we never would have chosen.

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11

A Prayer for the Year Ahead

Lord,
Thank You for 2025. Thank you for the lessons, the joy, the healing, and the growth that came through both celebration and struggle. Thank You for Your faithfulness, for new beginnings, and for the people You have placed in my life. As I step into 2026, guide me with wisdom, peace, and courage. Help me to continue trusting You, listening to my body, loving deeply, and living authentically.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Take care of yourself,
Linda x