2025 tested us all.

Honestly, everyone is going through something. The year 2025 has been tough on almost everyone; we all have a story to tell.

A friend—more like a big brother—reached out to me last night. He’s been overwhelmed by a series of challenges he’s faced this year. It’s been one hill after another. He’s tired, confused about what to do next, and reached out so we could rub minds together and share ideas.

I made sure to listen to his struggles before speaking to him. I told him, “This year has been tough on everyone.” I wasn’t trying to invalidate his feelings or place mine above his, but after sharing some of the challenges I’ve faced so far this year, he couldn’t believe how I survived them. There was a point when I began questioning God’s existence—I even wrote about it in “Where Do You Draw Your Strength?”

I can’t begin to list everything, but honestly, it got to a point where if someone pointed a gun at me, I’d smile and feel grateful if they pulled the trigger.

A few weeks ago, I was chatting with a friend who said she had never seen a year like this before. I know that if I asked you too, you’d have a story to tell.

Among the many things that helped me were prayer, listening to lots of messages (especially Koinonia), journaling, meditation, and writing…. But most importantly, even though I failed at many things, I didn’t give up trying. Even when I was close to the edge, there was still a tiny bit of faith left in me—that things could get better.

The truth is, we all have a story to share. I hope we’re all kind to one another, and that in the end, the journey proves to be worth it.

It’s been a tough year so far, but a lot can still happen. Don’t write it off yet.