Last week at this time I was saying goodbye to a family I cherish, about to spend time with another couple that I count as dear friends. My car was packed. To the brim. Overflowing with my belongings. And even as full as I could pack my car, I still had to leave things behind.
Maybe I shouldn't say things. A few pieces of furniture are replaceable, and might even be fun (once the income starts flowing again!). But tonight I'm sitting in my new home, 1800-ish miles away, and I'm mourning the people I left behind last week.
While I'm usually a loner, I deeply value the true friends I have made. I know God is with me in this transition (otherwise I'd be a wreck!). It aches a little bit to think of the people I left behind, and how much I'd give to have a hug and a long conversation with one of them. Shoot, ALL of them!!!
But for tonight, I'm turning this over to God, knowing that He's with me always. Honestly I'm wishing He'd send a representative with a heartbeat and skin! Times of change have been hard for me historically. Yet underneath my sad heart I know a peace deep within that is keeping me calm. God has a plan for me, even though I don't know exactly what that looks like. He has given me a passion, allowed an incredible education, introduced me to life-changing people that showed me how to follow Him, and turned my ashes into beauty. Now it is time to stretch one wobbly foot out and take a step to what He is calling me to do. Love others, offer hope, and in everything and in every way point back to Him.
