For the past couple of weeks I just have not been able to put my thoughts into words. Too much stuff going on to process it all. All I do is go to class, work, and read and discuss books (which I really enjoy as much as I sometimes dread and say I hate it). Oh and I do get to spend some quality time with a few really great people. I am so thankful for laughter and barbecues and turkey sandwiches... :)
So I guess I made it to Spring Break, and ended up having a (kind of boring but also) a restful, uneventful time. Sarah and I hung out basically nonstop and it was just the best. We are so funny :) I saw some good, old friends and was reminded of so many times and memories that are not worth forgetting. [5 years last Sunday. RIP Van-C and Praise God for his hand and mighty strength] It is hard to go back sometimes. Those people were such a huge part of my life for so many years and the miles make many of those relationships difficult to maintain. It is sad, and a part of me would love to go back forever and never change, but another part of me loves the life I lead now and the ways I (and we all) have changed and grown up. I think people come in and out of our lives for different seasons to be used by God to teach and encourage us. God has blessed me in so many places with so many incredible friends and I am eternally grateful for the impact they have all had on my life. I only hope that the impact I have on others is half as great as the one they have all had on me.
A little buzz-word that has been floating around my vocabulary this year is "intentional." Living on purpose, with a purpose. Making informed, wise decisions and considering the effect they will have on the lives around you. Living above reproach, because it is the right thing to do. Making the extra effort in relationships, because not everyone does. Sometimes you never know who needs just a minute to share whats on their heart, but no one will give them the time of day or listen for a response when asked "How are you?" As a matter of fact, a wise man once told me that when someone asks you what you think on a matter, they don't necessarily want to hear what you think. On the contrary they are looking for someone to listen to them and give them the opportunity to share what they think. I think too often I will take any and every opportunity to share my opinions with anyone who will give me the time of day, maybe its time to shut my mouth and listen.
"...take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." James 1:19-22
"I think people come in and out of our lives for different seasons to be used by God to teach and encourage us." <--- totally agreed hannah.
ReplyDeletethis is something that I really struggled with trying to figure out why I had to let go of certain relationships after high school and this is the conclusion I came to as well.
intentionality is huge as well, and i'm glad that more people are starting to jump on board with this.
bottom line = glad we've become such great pals han, you're the best!
You may be right, people may be more interested in what they think than what you think. That said, some of those same people really do respect you, and want to know what you think. I know I do.
ReplyDeletesomewhere in that long rambling of a first paragraph that you left in my comment, i think you said that candice and i and you and nick should roadtrip?
ReplyDeletei'd be all kinds of ok with that