I am reminded today through several email lists that I should take some time to reflect on failures, accomplishments, shortcomings and victories that have taken place this past year. Interestingly, a moment's reflection immediately brings to mind thoughts and events from 2012 that could be written about over many pages. I have laughed and loved. I have cried and been angry. I have seen hurt and experienced healing. I have been moved to tears of joy by the greatness of humanity as well saddened by its senseless acts. I have developed new classes and lectures that have hopefully challenged young minds with the lessons of life. I have invested in relationships that have empowered me and in some that honestly have drained me. I have been the king of the world just by lifting a tennis ball in the yard with two dogs. I have led people to Christ and hopefully not distracted others from coming to him. I have turned 50 and realized that I will never dunk a basketball again on this side of Glory. I have said goodbye to my Grandmother, lifelong friends, and too many that have passed seemingly way before their time was done. I have read books that have challenged me and motivated me to be better but none that have been written with as much love that can be found in the simple truth of God's Word. I have had prayers answered to my desire and others that went totally against what I desired, but they have been answered. I have caught little fish and have caught bigger ones, but I did not catch enough. I have made money and spent too much money, but I have whittled down some debt and am paying my bills. I have Tweeted, re-tweeted, "facebooked", and played Words with Friends. I have had multiple words over a hundred points and beaten many but can't for the life of me beat Craig McPhail. I have gained weight, lost weight and now have successfully lowered my blood pressure (as long as I don't think about trying to beat Craig McPhail!). I have cheered in victory and experienced the agony of defeat in both humanity and athletics. I have seen the richness of a Carolina Blue sky and the destruction of a powerful storm. I have been forgiven when I thought I was unforgivable. I have heard "I love you" lots and learned to listen to it better. I have made new friends and strengthened relationships with old ones. I have learned Taylor Swift songs by hearing her words over and over coming from short little girls that aren't so short anymore. I have celebrated a daughter graduating from college and another finishing High School. I have been jealous accomplishments of others but I do rejoice with them, recognizing I have many more victories to come. I have been reminded that I am a saint, redeemed, loved, and forgiven. I have learned that I have found favor with God. Most of all, I have learned that I am alive and I must live in such a way that is rich and full and I have learned that I have not learned enough. Look 2013....I am coming your way!
Happy New Year!!
