Resolutions or Results in 2025

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Turning Obstacles Into Opportunities

In July 2023 I was transferred across the State of Texas to a new prison facility because I had signed up to take a college program. When I left my unit I was miserable and for several months I tried everything I knew to return to my unit of assignment. Each of my attempts failed miserably. Once the calendar flipped over to 2024 I made the conscious decision to try and make the most of my new location. The environment was uncomfortable, opportunities were minimal, and I deeply missed the relationships I had developed at my original unit, but I dug in anyway. Here are my 3 biggest takeaways from 2024:

1. Physical Health Is Vital

Through intermittent fasting, a commitment to burpies, and a reduction in carb intake I lost 57-pounds in 2024. Not only do I look better, my energy level went up, my attitude is much more optimistic, and my self confidence has increased. Physical health is a vital puzzle piece for all other areas of my life.

2. Writing Focused My Mind

For years I had felt God nudging me to write what He was teaching me but I ignored that voice and was too "busy" to make any progress there. I also had no idea how to write and publish a book. In 2024 I made up my mind to write and as soon as I began, the momentum opened opportunity. I have now authored 3 books that are in various stages of editing and at least 2 of them will be released in 2025! I can't wait to share them with you and I know they will be a blessing and a valuable resource for you and your loved one.

3. Appreciate What I Do Have

I had not fully appreciated the immense blessings God had given me when I was assigned to my previous unit. Until I was in a new season I had not realized how vibrant life was where I had been before. Just like people who visit a third world country return with new perspective on their lives, I had neglected to see the incredible community of friendships I had at my previous unit and I took it for granted. In 2024 I made up my mind to find things to be grateful for and I was able to change my perspective on my life. My big news...last week, after a year and a half of wrestling, stressing, and finally surrendering, God opened a door and made a way for me to return to my original unit. Seasons that are full of obstacles are actually seasons of opportunity. Hardships can become places of healing. Growth can occur even in the gutter. Once I learned what God wanted me to learn, accomplished what God wanted me to do, and made the changes God wanted me to make, He released me. I never could have imagined I would be overjoyed to be on a chain bus for 12-hours. I have reconnected with old friends, met some new ones, and have already been placed in the Faith Based Dorm as a mentor. God is good! My hope, my prayer, is that God will allow 2025 to be our best year yet. He is faithful and He is able. I challenge you, this year, don't just make resolutions, let's make the conscious decision to see results. Don't just see the obstacles, find the opportunities that lie within. Don't ever settle, make up your mind to soar! This year, may we all declare, "I CHOOSE HOPE!" I would love to hear YOUR biggest takeaways from 2024!


Like Trent's blog? Subscribe to his monthly newsletter at ichoosehope.substack.com.

Contact Trent directly by creating a Securus e-messaging account at SecurusTech.net or on the Securus App. You'll need his full name, State, and facility (Trenton Blythe, Texas, Texas Department of Criminal Justice). He'd love to hear from you!

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