Grieving, Growing and Gracefully Winning

Embracing God's goodness even when it hurts

As I step into what I truly believe is my winning season, I find myself reflecting deeply on the journey that brought me here. The trials and tribulations—especially those that marked the beginning of this year—have become unexpected catalysts for growth and deeper self-awareness. We often hear declarations from ministers, motivational speakers, and even friends saying, “This is your season to win,” or “It’s your time.” And while those words are uplifting, what’s often missing is the conversation about what can block us from experiencing that season fully—or even cause us to forfeit it.

At the start of this year, I boldly declared, “This is my winning season.” But then life hit hard. My pastors had begun to share messages about what’s required to walk in victory—about the mindset shifts needed, the discipline, the trust in God’s timing. And I began to ask myself: What’s my part in stewarding this season well?

Then, unexpectedly, my mother passed away.