Embracing Growth and Faith: 2026 --> 2016

Bonjour Lovelies,

I come back and I thought what better way than to hop onto this trend ...

Starting university two years after my peers was not an easy path. In 2016, while many around me were already deep into their studies and careers, I was just beginning my varsity journey. This delay felt like a setback at first, but looking back now, it was a profound lesson in patience, faith, and personal growth. Over the years, my relationship with God has deepened, and I have grown into a more confident, Christlike woman. This post reflects on that journey, the challenges I faced, and the spiritual growth that shaped who I am today.

Starting Late but Moving Forward

Beginning varsity two years after my peers was a humbling experience. At first, I felt behind, like I had missed out on important opportunities. Many of my friends had already graduated or were well into their careers. I questioned why my path was different and struggled with feelings of doubt and insecurity. Even though I had such a life changing experience abroad for a whole year, I still came back and had to jump onto the wagon as well. Almost having to forget that experience and choose to live in the present, looking back now, I never felt like I was playing catchup, it was just normal life.

But this time gave me a unique perspective. I learned to trust God's timing instead of rushing to meet societal expectations. This period taught me that growth is not a race but a journey. I focused on building a strong foundation in my faith, which became my anchor through uncertainty.

The LORD says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. - Psalm 32:8

Growing in Confidence Through Faith

Confidence did not come overnight. It grew as I leaned on God and saw His faithfulness in my life. I started to understand that my worth is not defined by how quickly I achieve milestones but by who I am in Christ.

Here are some ways my confidence grew:

• Prayer and reflection: Spending time in prayer helped me hear God's voice and gain clarity about my purpose.

• Community support: Being part of a faith community provided encouragement and accountability.

• Facing challenges: Each obstacle became an opportunity to trust God more deeply and develop resilience.

• Serving others: Helping others in my church and community strengthened my sense of purpose and self-worth.

  
  

This growth made me more comfortable embracing my unique journey and sharing my faith with others.

Becoming More Christlike

Growing in faith also meant becoming more like Christ in character and actions. I aimed to reflect His love, patience, and humility in my daily life. This transformation was gradual and required intentional effort.

Some practical ways I worked on this included:

• Forgiveness: Letting go of grudges and choosing grace over bitterness.

• Kindness: Small acts of kindness became a way to show God's love tangibly.

• Humility: Accepting my weaknesses and relying on God's strength.

• Service: Volunteering and supporting those in need, following Jesus’ example.

  
  

These steps helped me live out my faith authentically and inspired others around me.

Lessons Learned from Delayed Beginnings

Starting varsity late was a significant part of my growth story. It taught me lessons that shaped my faith and character:

• Patience is powerful: Waiting on God's timing builds trust and maturity.

• Comparison steals joy: Focusing on my own path allowed me to celebrate progress without envy.

• Every season has purpose: What feels like a delay can be preparation for something greater.

• Faith sustains through uncertainty: Trusting God brings peace even when the future is unclear.

  
  

These lessons continue to guide me as I face new challenges and opportunities.

Moving Forward with Hope and Purpose

Reflecting on my journey since 2016 fills me with gratitude. The challenges, the waiting, and the growth have all been part of God's plan to shape me into the woman I am today. I am more confident, grounded in faith, and committed to living a Christlike life.

For anyone feeling behind or uncertain about their path, remember that growth takes time and faith makes the journey meaningful. Trust God’s timing, embrace your unique story, and keep moving forward with hope.

Here we are in 2026, and so much has happened yet God still remains faithful.

C'est fini,

Zola xx