Sunshine After the Rain:

Trusting God with Your Unfinished Story

Hey Plums,

This month, I have been reflecting on life. I went back to my old college after twenty years, and it hit me with a lot of nostalgia. I sat in the old cafeteria, watching new students go through their first days, and it felt like I was back in my own first days on campus. I remember feeling really unsure and worried about the future. If I could talk to the younger version of myself, I'd tell her, "Girl, you're going to be okay."

Looking back now, I can honestly say that God has been faithful every step of the way. Back then, I struggled with insecurity and always felt like I wasn't good enough compared to others. I felt left out and not important. I even doubted my choice to move to Houston for college, wondering if I made a huge mistake.

Those years were some of the hardest and most painful of my life. Amidst trying to find my footing as a young woman, my world was rocked when I lost my dad. We had just reconnected when I was 19, after being separated for most of my life. I thought we were finally going to be able to rebuild our relationship, after having my heart broken by an ex. I was so hopeful that our reconnection would heal all of me but that was an assignment that only God could bear.

But now, twenty years later, I see how God's goodness was in all of that. All the pain and difficulty weren’t in vain. God was writing a story for me to share, a story to help others know that tough times aren't forever. There really is sunshine after the rain.

Today, I’m thankful to have two degrees, be a homeowner, an instructional coach, a prayer warrior, a ministry leader, and a business owner. Life was tough in my twenties and still has its challenges in my thirties, but God has helped me stand strong in Him. I wanted to share this with you because even when life is hard for a while, it doesn’t mean your journey is without purpose. You might still be in the middle of things, but God is still writing your story.

God continues to write my story even in moments where I feel abandoned. This is where the Holy Spirit comes in as the ultimate Comforter. He reminds me of two important Bible verses.

Philippians 1:6 says,

"Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ."

And James 1:2-4 reminds us,

"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing."

I learned to let patience work in my life and not give up on God. There are still areas where I feel like I'm not enough. But today, I am more confident, secure, and accepted by my family, friends, and most importantly, God.

Part of continuing my story in purpose and confidence this year means improving in every way -- especially as the owner of The Plum Effect. I’ve been spending time meeting with business development counselors, taking courses, and redesigning my website. One of my main goals is to finish a solid business plan and develop inventory management procedures. I’m not sure what your goals are, but I encourage you to stay focused and surround yourself with people who help you be the best version of yourself. For me, meeting with a business counselor came from a simple conversation with a coworker—and it’s already making a difference.

Smiling after the rain.

What 'storm' are you walking through right now, and what is one small step you can take today to look for the sunshine?