Miraculous

Often times, all of us are inclined to wonder how our actions, lack of action, "fate" or other similar ideas got us to where we are today. I believe there is a definite reason for things happening to us (and for our actions) and that God is in control of this plan. I would not do one thing differently because I know that every step along the way I have learned, grown and been able to continue ahead with more acute knowledge about myself and others.

If I had not been born to the parents I was born to...

• I would not have come to know Christ the way I have
• I would not know the comfort of having parents who will never divorce
• I would not have experienced growing up in a small town (sorry city folks, I just think there's something different about having small town roots..)
• I would not have had all the happy childhood memories that came from having young, energetic parents who didn't have a lot, but gave me everything I needed and more.

If I had not chosen to go to Auburn (which, i'll admit, was not a choice I gave much thought. I applied, got accepted and went, just like 2 generations of my family before me):

• I would not have learned what it was to study and see the rewards of actually putting effort in to it! (too little, too late, some might say...but all the same..)
• I would not have made several close friends that I still call friends today.
• I would not have made mistakes in relationships, which helped me know what real love looks like. (Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13)
• I would not have gotten to enjoy those orange chairs in Goodwin!! :)
• I would not have experience in how to handle a variety of situations, from finances to dealing with people.

If I had not moved to Birmingham almost 3 years ago:

• I would not be a member of my fabulous church
• I would not have met the love of my life and the man God prepared for me!
• I would not have such a fabulous job (almost through my 2nd year!)
• I would not know how it feels to actually miss my parents!
• I would not know my way around an interstate system at all!
• I would not be able to see my sister regularly (She's at Montevallo)
• I would not have the experience of moving 3 times in 3 years! (okay, I might could have done without that!)

But in all seriousness, I am thankful for how my life has unfolded. I am hopeful for the future and I am in a constant state of praise for all that Christ has done for me and the people I know and love. I hope that peace for all of you, as well. It's nothing short of miraculous.