2021 Reflections: What I Learned

This past year was filled with challenges, new experiences, lots of hard work, and even more joy. I walked into it with a full list of goals and dreams. I’m beyond thankful for the platform I’ve had to serve in Kansas City, Dallas, and in communities across the country, and the extraordinary blessings I’ve received from giving. I’m thankful for my friends and family who loved me so well and cheered me on each step of the pageant journey—you’re the real MVPs.

This year, I saw God’s hand at work constantly in countless ways. I also learned *so many* life lessons. Growing up in a super competitive family where “cry on the inside like a winner” is a family motto (true story 😂) and as someone who puts a lot of pressure on myself to achieve—winning at whatever you do in life carries a lot of weight.

One of my greatest takeaways from this year is that what defines someone even more than work ethic and bringing your best to whatever you do is your mentality to choose joy, pick yourself up, and trust God even when it isn’t easy or the endgame score or outcome isn’t what you prayed for or anticipated. Trusting God with all your heart is the only way to live and how I’m welcoming 2022. 🎊 He’s real, He’s present, and He is worthy & trustworthy. And He wins in the end.