A Year of Lessons, Loss, and Love: Reflecting on 27
Today is my 28th birthday, and as with every birthday, it invites reflection on the past year. I find myself revisiting the experiences that shaped me, the lessons that deepened my understanding, and the woman I am becoming as I step into this next chapter of my life.
It’s funny to think that just a year ago, I didn’t want to turn 27. I felt old. Embarrassed, even, as if entering my late 20s was something to hide. I thought I should be younger, that my age was something to keep to myself. Looking back, I feel sorry for that version of me. I wish I could tell her that aging is a privilege and that the belief that a woman should conceal her age is a notion she never needed to carry. What’s more, it wasn’t even my original thought—it was something I picked up from my surroundings.
That realization became one of the most powerful lessons of the past year: the importance of shedding beliefs that don’t belong to me. Some ideas are imposed upon us, some absorbed unconsciously, and some adopted because we think they will help us fit in with the people we admire. But the beauty of maturing is understanding that we don’t have to accept every belief handed to us. We have the power to choose our own.
If something doesn’t sit right—whether it’s a thought, a narrative in the media, or an opinion from someone else—I’ve learned to pause and ask: “Is this my own original belief? Do I want this to be my truth moving forward? Does this resonate with the highest version of myself?” If the answer is no, I release it. We are not obligated to carry the thoughts and opinions of others. That is our prerogative.
So instead of lamenting getting older, I chose to believe that I am young—because I am. Each moment, we are the youngest we will ever be again. This truth is universal, whether you are 18 or 80. And by embracing that belief, I started to live more vibrantly. Not in an immature way, but with an openness to life that felt expansive, playful, and free.
I experimented with my hair, gravitated toward brighter colors, and shed anything that felt outdated or out of alignment with who I was becoming. I embraced trying new things—whether it was a bold nail color, stepping outside my comfort zone before I felt ready, or fully leaning into whatever season I found myself in. I created mood boards, not just for the year but for shorter periods, honoring my evolving energy and desires. Some months called for adventure and connection; others, for stillness and introspection. Allowing myself to flow with these changes, rather than resisting them, was an act of deep self-acceptance. I learned that joy isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.
Another profound lesson from this year was the importance of creating a home. I used to postpone decorating, waiting for the “right” circumstances before allowing myself to truly enjoy my space. But after my experience with the Palisades fire, I realized how grateful I was for every ounce of love I poured into that space. I only wished I had done it sooner. Life is too precious to wait for perfection. Enjoy what you have, while you have it.
That same lesson extended to hosting. I used to hold off on inviting people over, waiting until my space was “ready.” But I’ve learned that a home is for living in, not just presenting to others. Some of my happiest memories from this past year are of hosting—regardless of whether everything was perfect. And I’m so grateful I did before I had to say goodbye to that space. My only regret is not doing it sooner.
One of the greatest blessings of this year has been the friendships I’ve cultivated. For years, I prayed for friendships that felt aligned—where I was seen, supported, and valued, and where I could offer the same in return. This year, those prayers were answered. I now have friendships that nourish me, from my book club and girl gang to couple friends with James and cherished family friends. I no longer accept friendships where I feel undervalued, judged, or like I have to shrink myself. The people in our lives either elevate us or drain us, and it’s up to us to discern the difference.
Starting my book club and running a 10K are two accomplishments I’m incredibly proud of this year. Sharing my love of reading with others has been life-changing, and the tradition of rotating hosts makes it even more special. Running the 10K, on the other hand, was something I wasn’t sure I could do—but I trained, stayed consistent, and surprised myself. Participating in the Palisades Will Rogers 5/10K was the best decision I could’ve made, especially in hindsight, knowing I wouldn’t be able to run it this year.
Of course, this year wasn’t without its trials. Losing our home, watching my parents go through their own challenges, and facing uncertainty tested me in ways I never expected. But through it all, I was reminded that relationships, experiences, and love are all that truly matter. Things can be replaced, but the people we share our lives with—and the memories we create—are irreplaceable. More than ever, I prioritize people over possessions, presence over perfection. And I have learned, deeply, that I am more resilient than I ever realized.
Among the many blessings this year has brought, two stand out: a puppy named Bala and the anticipation of my baby sister’s arrival. My parents rescued Bala in September, and she has filled our lives with joy. James and I adore her, though she is undeniably James’ girl out of the two of us. Around the same time, my stepmom became pregnant, and I can’t wait to meet my little sister. Though she’s not my child, I already feel a deep, innate desire to protect and guide her. I want to be a woman she can look up to, someone she can always turn to.
As I step into my 28th year, I do so with a newfound perspective. Life is meant to be lived fully, not in waiting. I embrace where I am, knowing that each season—joyful or challenging—has something to teach me. I am grateful for the love in my life, the strength within me, and the beauty of simply being here, now.
Here’s to 28.
Disclaimer: The photo on the previous page and the photos featured in this collage is from Pinterest. If you happen to know who the owner is of any of the photos, please let me know so I can credit them.