Jennifer, I love how you put this: "[epiphanies] often come at just the right time, when you think your very weak grasp on life is even more untenable." So true. I'll eventually let everyone know what my epiphany was—I'm still turning it over in my mind, getting to know it. (And I just might share it with you even sooner, seeing as how I have known you for 20 years.)

Violet, what a great description of what it feels like to struggle against life: "Pushing against walls that wouldn’t move, pulling knobs on doors that wouldn’t open, but also, in the words of Casting Crowns, 'trying so hard to stop trying so hard.'â€ And what a blessing that your friend shared with you that simple, powerful prayer. What an amazing example of an epiphany that starts as a small kernel, building up over time. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

Laura, yes, it does seem to be true that things happen for a reason. There are many different ways to think about it, but in the end, each philosophy eventually seems to result in a better, richer life. The hardest part is believing that when we're in the midst of some despair, and not knowing how long we'll have to wait for something good to emerge.

Kat, thank you! I'm glad you stumbled across Halfway to Normal, too!

The Modern Gal, that's a good point. "Surprise" isn't really the right word. It's more a case of not being able to remember that feeling of having an epiphany, until you have another one. It's so extraordinary, like a very distinct flavor that you can never begin to describe. Nothing in the world tastes like it, but the moment you taste it again, the memories of it all come flooding back, so strong. (Btw, I'm so glad you had the chance to rediscover things about yourself this past year. Your life will long be blessed because of it.)