1 Year: Healing, Honing, Heart

One year ago I was not looking around with a sense of urgency. I was pleased with my path regarding my calling, my gifts, and the value I was adding to others where I was professionally and personally. It was not setting the world on fire, but I was sure the work I was doing made a difference and that countless businesses, colleges, groups and individuals were being positively impacted. I felt my growth was progressing, but the core of who I had been created to be was fluttering in the background in a dim corner being used 'on occasion.' I had no idea that within days, everyone's rhythms of life, expectations, and resources were about to be shifted.

In the midst of a crisis, I saw that flutter begin to become stronger. In the midst of isolation, I began to hear that still small voice light up with love and fiery mission. In the midst of complaints and worried hearts, the Counselor within me began to speak through and use me like It had in years past. It touched my heart to be reminded that I hadn't been forgotten by the One who chose to use my mess in the first place to pour into the lives of others for this life and throughout eternity. This year has reminded me to think bigger, to see deeper, to heal when necessary and step when things are scary. It solidified that it is clearly not my mess that makes a difference, but His magnificence that infiltrates every personal touch, every tear, every step so that His glory could be known.

I honestly have no idea what this next year will hold, but I sure do know the God that surpasses all time and space. I am freed by knowing where my eternity lies and that there is one mission for my life here: to Love God and go love others with the good news of Jesus. As someone who once was lost and highly aggressive to any faith-based conversation, I welcome the opportunity to share the seemingly insane path that has brought me to this place I stand. I AM a Christ centered communicator, a trusted consultant, and gospel focused licensed counselor. It is an honor and privilege to have you share your own experiences also, I'd love to hear them.

I hope that in this time of reflection, that you too are finding hope in the middle of March 2021. I hope that you too have prioritized your time to focus on the mission you've been entrusted and that there is excitement in your footsteps and fresh air filling your lungs. I pray that if this season has brought you grief and questioning that you'll make the time to heal and grieve in healthy ways. That you will take the moments and humble yourself to hear and meet your own thoughts right where they are in order to proceed as needed. You are worth it. Your journey matters, and I'm glad you are here.

Thanks for reading this Crystal conversation (yep, that's what cnvrstns means - lol)....

Crystal McFadden, LPC | IG: @crystalcnvrstnsllc | www.crystalmcfadden.com