I've been keeping journals since I was in the 3rd grade and I'm so glad to share some of my most intimate life moments with you here! Here, you'll find inspirational and encouraging stories of me and other broken people like me. We are all jars of clay who have been afflicted in every way, but not crushed...struck down by not destroyed. Here, you do NOT have the right to remain silent, so as you read, grab your favorite snack and drink and leave a comment...share YOUR story. I can't wait to connect with you in this beautiful safe space.
Endings. Gosh, they are never easy are they? Whether it’s leaving behind a job, a relationship, or, in my case, recognizing it’s time for a change in our child’s school, the idea of closing a door can feel overwhelming. It’s natural to feel sadness, hesitation, or even fear about what comes next. But what if instead of resisting change, we embrace it with open hearts? What if we saw endings not as marks of failure, but as opportunities to reflect, grow, and move toward new beginnings?
This is where I am currently—a parent navigating the difficult, but necessary decision to move my child from a school where he faced challenges. I’ve spent days shedding tears, being sad about leaving this warm, comfortable bubble…but as painful as it’s been, I’m learning that some endings, though hard, can lead to unexpected blessings and deeper lessons.
The Waves of Change
At first, the change felt daunting. Our lovely little school was small and familiar. It’s filled with wonderful people and after years of being part of its community, it had become part of our routine. There was comfort in knowing what to expect and who I was going to see in car rider line. But, what I didn’t want to admit was that deep down, I saw how over time things began to shift. Eventually, the weight of the emotional toll on my son made it clear: it was time to move on.
Be honest with me: Have you been there before? Are you there right now? You know—standing at the edge of a significant change, wondering if you’re doing the right thing. Asking yourself questions like: Will things get better? Will the new chapter be easier? Will I IMMEDIATELY regret making this decision? No matter how hard you try to calm your thoughts, the questions swirl around in your mind continuously, and the “what-ifs” leave you feeling paralyzed. If so, let me tell you: you’re NOT alone.
Can I offer you a different perspective? Endings aren’t always signs of failure. Sometimes, they’re necessary beginnings disguised as goodbyes. They are God’s way of clearing the path for something better, even if we can’t see it yet. Sometimes, endings are His invitation for us to trust Him deeper, lean into His plan, and let go of what no longer serves our growth so we can become who He’s always destined us to be. That’s why it’s important to not look at change through the lens of shame, anger, or disgust, but rather through the lens of gratefulness.
That’s right…gratefulness. The Bible tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18: to “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Not some circumstances…not the circumstances that make us feel good….ALL circumstances. When walking through a chapter you know is coming to an end, taking every step with a grateful heart allows you to end things in a way you can be proud of. Here’s why having a grateful heart matters…especially in the end:
1. Gratitude Allows Us to Truly Let Go
Gratitude isn’t just about focusing on what we’ve gained. Sometimes, it’s about recognizing the lessons that come with the struggles. My son’s time at his old school, though challenging at times, also brought us wonderful moments of joy. The performances, the events, the class parties, serving on the parent board….those are all treasures I will hold in my heart. It also taught us a lot—about resilience, about advocacy, and about finding our voice…learning when to speak up and when to lead with listening. It sharpened my spirit of discernment… and for that, I am thankful because I know it will serve me well in our next chapter. The difficulties weren’t wasted. In fact, I’m fully convinced they helped prepare us for the next step.
2. Endings Make Room for New Beginnings
When one door closes, another opens. It’s a cliche, yes, but it’s also true. While sad, saying goodbye after all these years means my little one has the opportunity to enter a space where he can thrive without the weight of misunderstanding or frustration holding him back. We can now look forward to a fresh start, where he will be seen, heard, and valued for all of who he is. And I’m really REALLY excited about that.
3. Gratitude Brings Peace
Change, no matter how hard, can bring peace if we choose to approach it with gratitude and trust the One who is always in control. I’m now at peace with saying goodbye because I know it’s the best thing for him and most importantly, I know nothing happens without God’s say so. Peace doesn’t always come from staying in the familiar. Sometimes, it comes from taking that leap into the unknown.
Our lives are full of cycles—cycles of growth, change, and renewal. And with every step, God allows us the power to choose how we engage with those changes. So if you’re standing at the edge of an ending, no matter how big or small, I encourage you to embrace the end with gratitude. Look for the lessons, celebrate the growth, and know there’s something beautiful waiting for you on the other side.
Like you, I’m not 100% sure what the next chapter holds, but I’m putting all my trust in the One who does. I’m sure I’ll have my moments, but whatever this change brings, I’m choosing to embrace it with open arms, a heart full of gratitude, and a renewed sense of hope. I hope you’ll do the same.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo,