My ideal New Year scenario requires a recharged mind ready to enter the year with a b a n g at the first spark of firework. But the busyness of the holiday season - the stress and joy of it all - never seems to give us ample time to sit, reflect, and switch gear for the new. As we let the usual rhythms of life take over, we're already in the middle of January. Anyone with me?

Since the end of 2016, I managed to scribble scattered journal entries of hopes and dreams for 2017. I went into 2017 - not yet fully processed, hopeful but flustered. A week ago, I landed in Korea - and finally managed to make much-needed connections & resolutions for the new year. Better late than never, honey!

Looking back, 2016 was a wonderful taste of what could be. A prologue of things to come, not yet fully realized. A clearing and setting of the ground for establishment. 2017 will be a year of building, maturity, and even fulfillment of year-long promises. I'm believing for the ceiling of my faith to be shattered - and rebuilt with impossible dreams and unimaginable realities. I'm preparing myself for surprises to sweep me off my feet - and fill the gaps with utmost delight and adventure.

This is my fifth trip to Korea since my first return in 2014 - and my first one-way ticket. I'm familiar with being in control, but the kickoff to this year is rather turbulent. Not from instability - but from the thrill and fear of crossing over the bridge into unseen opportunities and doors.

I won't sit around for clarity, but be proactive in the clearing. I want to step in the realm of grace that comes through honor and generosity. I want to extend my care, love, and creativity to those around me. In the here and now.

““You’ll never know the blessings of being fruitful if you never embrace the sacrifice of being planted” ”

— Steven Furtick

If I learned anything while being home, I learned that lovers are assigned to every land. Across every city, state, or nation. He will not leave a single piece of territory unloved and unreached. He is faithful to station lovers to love and grow the land.

I used to despise the comfort of settlement, but now yearn for the maturity that only comes from being planted in a place. There's time to travel, and time to settle. My heart is being set up for the latter - and I'm ready to put a foot to the longing for settlement outweighing my wanderlust.

At last, I found my place - and am ready to cross over.

Here is to a steadfast and fruitful year. Happy 2017!

Reflecting Forward