26 and counting...

So, I turned 26 yesterday with a resounding thud. I just read my post from my birthday a year ago... It still amazes me what can happen in a year's time. Once again, at this time last year I probably couldn't have predicted that I would be where I am today. At that time, I still wasn't really sure what direction I was heading. I was jobless, without prospects. I didn't know if I was going to go to seminary in the fall or getting an engineering job, or even if I'd have a place to live...needless to say, a lot happened at age 25.

It was a transitional year for sure, from school to work, and then to work AND school. The KBC hired me out of the blue in March, and then I finally gave into God's calling on my life, at the expense of a large pay cut and four more years of school. But, hey, I learned a lot from all of it. I learned to travel and arrange travel on my own in Poland. I learned how to read and write papers (seriously). I learned feelings are not a good basis for decision-making, but well directed passion can bring about change. I learned strong friendships require work, as does love, and the two need to proceed in that order. I learned I need to be instead do, but I'm still learning to put that into practice. Finally, I've learned that there is no substitute for doing what is right, even when it's hard, even when it doesn't make sense (Galatians 6:9 has been a theme verse for the year). That has saved me a lot of pain.

As I look back at what I was thinking at this time last year, I feel like I need to apologize to each of you for my cynicism these past several months. I don't feel like I've truly appreciated each one of you as much as I should have or as much as you deserve. That is something I am going to have to relearn. Thank you for putting up with me regardless. I am still thankful for each one of you, and you are a blessing in my life.

Looking ahead, 26 doesn't seem as mysterious. There is a good chance I will still be doing the same things then as I am now, but hopefully I will be different. I still have a lot of growing left to do. I have no idea what God has in store for me this year, but regardless of what it is, I know I must not become weary in doing good, and I must trust in His strength and His plan.

Bring on the adventure!