As 2016 comes to a close, I've noticed that many people are choosing to focus on the negatives of this year. However, I think that it is important to look back and see the blessings that God provided for me within the last year. These are some of my highlights from the last 365 days.

First, God blessed me with the gift of travel in 2016. Traveling has always been a passion of mine and, for the first time thus far in my life, I was able to leave North America to go see Europe for a short time.

Going with family and friends, I experienced numerous cultures, languages, foods and more. In Paris, we spoke French (with varying degrees of success) and tasted snail and frog for the first time. In the Netherlands, I learned more about where my grandfather grew up and what that environment was like. In Ireland, my family and I were able to experience our culture first-hand and even become sheep farmers for a few days.

God not only provided me the opportunity to explore the world and experience different cultures, he also provided me opportunities to grow in my high school as well. Being a senior in high school was amazing and I was able to be involved in numerous sports and clubs, including tennis and the theatre company. My friends and I were able to grow closer through school and church, strengthening our relationships and faith. Lastly, but most importantly, seeing the hard work I put into high school pay off with graduation was a huge accomplishment in my life.

Post-graduation, I packed my bags, said goodbye to Illinois, and moved over a short ways to Grand Rapids, Michigan to start my college career. After a long and difficult decision-making process, I felt that the LORD had been leading me to Calvin College. Doubts that were swirling in my mind over the decision quickly vanished as I began to move in. God gave me an amazing roommate, a group of wonderful floormates, and many other talented individuals I'm lucky to call my friends. Between eating meals together, suffering through papers and finals, and going out on the weekends, these people have impacted my life forever.

These three highlights are just a small fraction of all that God has blessed me with in 2016. From traveling, to graduating, to meeting incredible people, this year has been one of the best years of my life thus far. I'm excited to see what is in store for me in 2017.