48 and Thriving: Finding Joy in the Journey:The Best is Yet to Come

Today, I turn 48, and as I reflect on my life, one thing feels crystal clear: every moment, the good and the hard, has been guiding me to where I am right now. It hasn’t always been easy there were times when I wondered if I was on the right path, or if the tough seasons would ever end. But looking back, I can see that even the setbacks were setting me up for something better.

Reaching this age brings the realization that I likely have more days behind me than ahead of me. And honestly, that could feel heavy. But instead of letting it weigh me down, I’ve decided to embrace it as an invitation to live differently more fully.

What I’ve learned is that how we handle this transition defines our happiness. Do we cling to what’s behind us, or do we release it, trusting that the best is yet to come? There’s so much freedom in making peace with where we’ve been and choosing to lean into what’s ahead.

Psalm 90:12 says:

"Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

This verse reminds me that every day is a gift. Life is fleeting, but it’s also rich with purpose. Each experience whether joyful or painful has value when we allow it to shape us into the person God intended us to be.

The truth is, not everything went the way I hoped. There were seasons of disappointment and loss, moments when I questioned the path ahead. But what I see now is that even the toughest chapters were part of a bigger story—one that is still being written. The struggles didn’t define me; they refined me. And every detour I thought was a mistake was really a step toward where I’m supposed to be.

At 48, here’s what I’ve come to believe:

1. Everything belongs. The wins, the losses, the heartbreaks—they all play a role in shaping who we become.
2. There’s freedom in authenticity. I’ve spent too much time chasing other people’s approval. Now, I’m focused on showing up as my truest self.
3. The best is still ahead. God is far from finished with me. New dreams, opportunities, and love await—and I’m excited to see where the journey leads.

What I want to share today, on my 48th birthday, is this: life isn’t about striving; it’s about embracing. It’s about accepting where we’ve been, celebrating how far we’ve come, and walking forward with hope, even when we don’t know what’s next.

If you’re in a season of transition, or if the weight of time feels heavy, I hope you know that it’s never too late for new beginnings. The best is still in front of us when we live each day with intention, gratitude, and faith in God’s unfolding plan.

Every moment both the joys and the challenges was preparing me for the life I get to live now. And I truly believe that the next chapter will be the best yet.