As I reflect on the first three months of 2022 I’m most grateful for grace, patience and family. 

Through the highs and lows failures and milestones, I know I’m never alone. Here are affirmations, highlights and lessons I learned through them. 

Faith is the foundation for everything in life. 

As a firm believer in Jesus, my faith has helped me navigate challenges I never imagined I’d experience in the first three months of the year. While staying connected to Christ through regular church attendance, daily devotionals and prayer, I’ve also continued to grow through service. 

I led Rooted, a ten-week program to help people connect with God, the church and their purpose, solo for the first time since taking it in 2019. Although it’s offered in-person, I chose to facilitate in the online format. I was blown away by how God moved after each week and meeting, and it exceed my expectations. 

I also joined the Next Steps Team as a table host for Welcome to Mariners luncheons for visitors and new members. It’s been an opportunity that I’ve enjoyed every month. I love hearing about people’s journeys to Jesus and Mariners while sharing mine and helping them get more connected. 

Mental health matters.

While I’ve always known and believed in the importance of mental health, this year it became closer to me than ever before. From Cheslie Kryst to other members of my community, I’ve learned a lot about mental health challenges. I also took advantage of the Be There Certificate created in partnership with jack.org and Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation.

Movement is good for the body and soul. 

I’ve continued my hobby of country dancing through weekly nights out at The Ranch Saloon in Anaheim. I also participated in my first convention and competed in line dance choreography. Although I didn’t win, it was a great experience. I expanded my practice of two step and participated in other formats including Brazilian Zouk, Country Swing and West Coast Swing. 

I also joined the Fabletics family and started by testing four signature athletic wear bottoms including the Oasis, On-the-go and Anywhere high-waisted leggings and the Breathe running shorts.

While the popular 2 for $24 leggings is awesome, my favorite part of the subscription is the fitness app with a large variety of workouts. 

Work creates opportunity beyond career progression. 

Throughout my time at TGR Foundation my biggest areas of growth have been working with diverse people and personalities, creating work-life harmony and boundaries and managing stress.

In January my closest coworker, Reshma Melwani, resigned in the first week back. Since the beginning of my tenure she welcomed me into her life and family. We worked very closely together day-to-day and on most projects. Losing her was a challenge emotionally and professionally, but I was excited for her in her new chapter. Later in the month I received a promotion and we continued to work on The Genesis Invitational.

With Reshma’s absence I had a lot more involvement in the public and media relations components. I always love hearing and sharing the organization’s impact and more importantly our scholar’s stories. The event, as always, was a great success. 

Since transitioning into a remote and now hybrid work environment work boundaries and movement throughout the day has continued to be challenges I tackle day by day, especially in the midst of employee turnover. I’m also working on articulating my thoughts and feelings in impromptu situations, specifically when I’m emotional. I hope to return to Toastmasters soon. 

Opportunity is everywhere. 

There is always opportunity to learn and grow. It’s up to us to understand what is important to us and when to take advantage of it and when to let it go.   

Sometimes they also provide affirmation, experience and lessons even in the process of the pursuit. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve been offered, pursued and participated in this year through church, social media and other avenues. There will be more details to come. 

With all the highs and lows of Q1 I’m excited for what’s in store for the next nine months of the year and beyond. 

What’s your greatest highlight or accomplishment from Q1? Share in the comments below or connect with me on social media @JASMINECTATE. 

Hugs & Handshakes, 

Jasmine C. Tate