Day 11. Something people seem to compliment you the most on

I get complimented on my outgoing disposition. People say I’m fearless. I think this is cool, because I used to be very introverted. I remember a teacher talking to me in the hallway at school when I was in fifth grade, and I was so mortified to be put on the spot that I ran into the bathroom in tears.

When I left the FOC and started trying out new churches, I was afraid of people talking to me. I certainly didn’t start conversations.

The first time I had to give a speech in college? I stood in front of the class shaking and speechless. Now, and for the past ten years, I lecture and speak to groups of people on a regular basis.

Regular exposure, practice, and determination have changed my previous awkward wallflower personality into a person who loves public speaking, meeting new people, and trying new things.

Day 10. Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know

Wow – this truth challenge is harsh! There’s an old saying that goes something like this: “People come into your life for a reason or a season.” Another version is: “You’re either a lesson or a blessin’.” Both sentiments ring true for my experience. Yes, I know some difficult people – I’d be willing to bet someone out there considers me one of their “difficult people.” But, each person who has been or currently is in my life has taught me something, helped me grow, or just plain been a blessing. 

Day 09. Someone you didn’t want to let go of

This is something very unique for a person of my age (and background): I have not lost any close relatives. My grandparents all died when I was young – my dad’s parents before I was old enough to remember them. I knew my maternal grandmother just a little bit; and, I only met my maternal grandfather once before he died.

So, to make this authentic, I will change the question to future tense: I don’t want to let go of my parents.  I think it’s scary and sad and vulgar to even think of them dying. I love living near them and that my kids get to spend time with their grandparents on a regular basis. 

Day 08. Someone who made your life difficult.

This is quite the truth challenge. It’s easier to be truthful about myself than write about other people – particularly those who have hurt me.

 

See also day four: besides severe emotional damage, the person stole from me. And the time I had to spend working to make up for the stolen money has taken precious time and energy from my family.

 

Will I survive? Yep, I always do. Did this person win by “getting away” with all the damages and thievery? Seems like it at times, but I won’t dwell on negative people.

 

Has someone made your life difficult? (no names please!).

Day 07. Someone Who Has Made Your Life Worth Living For

Jesus. Jesus gives me hope and a future and a mission in life.  

Without Jesus, I would be living in fear of Hell. Every day I wake up and walk under the umbrella of grace provided by a perfect savior. 

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life though Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 6:23

Do you know Him?

Day 06. Something You Hope You Never Have to Do

I hope (and pray) I never have to bury a child. I cannot imagine the grief of those who go through this, whether their child is four years old, twenty-four, or forty. I just cannot imagine. My heart goes out to every parent who has had to do this, or will have to do so in the future.

 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

John 14:1-2

Day 05. Something You Hope to Do in Your Life

The longest-lasting desire of my life (that is yet unaccomplished) is to become a published author. Maybe not my memoir, though: I’m having second thoughts about going public with what I’ve written. Though I suppose I will eventually get it in the condition to publish. I am working on a new book – a work of fiction.

I’ve heard that many writers will finish a first book and move on to the second (which I’m personally finding much easier to write) and then later go back and revisit / edit the first. That’s my current plan because inspiration has hit and I’m enjoying the honeymoon phase of writing this new story.

I’ve wanted to be an author since I was seven years old, and that drive has not left me.

I’d love to hear your answer to this question: what is something YOU hope to do in your life?