Beyond Survival: Choosing to Live, Thrive, and Rise in 2026

We are now in the midst of 2026, and, as with every new year, it brings questions, reflections, and quiet moments of wondering:

- Marcus Cleavon Smith

What's next? Across the world, people are taking inventory of their lives—ready to let go of old habits, mindsets, situations, and even relationships—in hopes of embracing new beginnings, fresh opportunities, and renewed resources.But perhaps the most important work we can do in this new year isn't external at all. It starts within.

2026 invites us to pause, reflect, and examine ourselves honestly. It asks us to look deep within and ask God the courageous questions: What needs to be fixed? What needs to be removed? What have I been holding onto that no longer serves my purpose? And just as importantly, how do I move forward into a brighter and better future—not just for myself, but for others as well?