The church told me to pray more, submit more, and stay longer. And the Catholic Church made sure I knew I was going to hell if I left. Every message induced fear. And fear kept me further from God and the truth that would have set me free. Prayer is powerful. But it does not override free will. You cannot pray away a harvest someone is actively choosing to grow.

As this year closes, I want every woman who feels like 2025 was a waste to hear this: nothing in your life has been lost. God saw every step, every tear, every moment you kept going when you wanted to quit. If He carried me through my own valleys and turned my pain into purpose, He will do the same for you. Hold on. New things are waiting for you in 2026. God isn’t finished with you yet.