Farewell to 2015, the year of growing pains, enlightenment, challenges, reaching goals, traveling, independence, creativity, and lots of change. Uncertainty and I became close friends, becoming well acquainted with unpredictable outcomes in my career, artistic endeavors, and every aspect of life. Each one of the twelve months brought more challenge than I could bear, and I quickly realized the frailty of my human condition. Needless to say, it was humbling and I couldn’t do it on my own.
With all the big life changes, I learned intimately the word “Steadfast.” It was opposite of what I’d experienced in my circumstances, but exactly the characteristic of the Lord I held tightly to. All of Psalm 136 paints this picture perfectly, starting with the first verse declaring, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.” He’s my only constant, while everything around me shifted and evolved.
On a superficial level, I bought a new car, had my first art gallery exhibit, graduated college (hallelujah!), became an official business owner + full time freelance artist, changed my hair, moved into a 100 year old home in downtown Birmingham, joined a new church, began shooting film, attended a photography workshop, started the @EBphotographyartistry Instagram, and for the first time traveled to New Orleans, Indiana, Oregon, and Haiti.
But the real change came from within. By his grace, I tapped into my creativity on a whole new level, redefined what success meant to me, sought vulnerability in relationships, reshaped my goals and dreams, fought fear by allowing myself to experiment with new painting and photography techniques, walked alongside dear friends battling physical and mental illnesses, swallowed the reality and responsibilities of “adulting”, etc. I could expand more, but the point really isn’t about me.
This year was whirlwind, yet God’s promises have been my only hope and joy. The word of the Lord stands Forever. He is steadfast. His provision was evident with all the gracious clients, numerous growth opportunities, and encouragement for my first year in business. Thank you thank you thank you to everyone involved in this journey. Here are some of my favorite images of 2015, enjoy!
