This past year I reflected, I faltered, I grew, and I stumbled my way into genuinely loving myself. That isn’t to say I hated myself before, but rather I struggled to know who I was. I have many hobbies, attend events, and volunteer for different community activities, all which add pieces that build on what makes me “Renee.”

However, as I took a look at the tasks I was a part of, I wondered, “Am I doing these things because I genuinely get fulfillment from them, or is it because I feel the need to live up to some standard or unrealistic expectation of who I think I should be?”  

Well, most of it, that is.

It seems that no matter who your ears tune into these days, someone somewhere is sharing their story of sorrow and distress. This year has really done a number on a number of us.

My bishop, for example, was put on life support, my beautiful baby girl had to be tested for COVID-19, and close friends of mine lost loved ones. The stories go on and on. But even amidst all of this chaos there is hope, good news, and, yes, even blessings.