conversations between us

While I did not read the fanfic that so many of my friends were absolutely gushing over for the longest time, I couldn't come up with anything else for the title. I read somewhere that "the best things in life are not things" and it's so true, as obvious as it reads. And for me, I may have to say one of the best things are the conversations I am privileged to have with people around me. That moment of connection and clarity between two individuals, where time slips away and the rest is history.

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At the end of each year I usually make a list of all the things I was thankful for during that year. But for some odd reason I couldn't get myself to do it December 2008. This year was really tough on so many levels. Emotionally, socially, academically, spiritually everything was challenged and shaken to the core. But as I've meditated and thought about this longer, I realize that that is the first step of being reshaped and molded, restored into the likeness of Him. And when I do think about it, there are so many things to still be thankful for because in the end, I did not deserve any of it. Only by grace, amazing grace.

1) Cambodia missions: Training, meeting my team, eating balot, watching all those John Piper sermons, Life University, being shown such unexpected and undeserving love from all my students, struggling to love them, not showering...for days and days, and in the end being shown how small I am and how great His kingdom is. Greater things are yet to come, that last day in Phnom Penh ahhh God is so good. Isaiah 26:8

2) Livingwater family: What a breath of fresh air. I remember coming home from church that first Sunday and feeling so refreshed but also so puzzled because it was so different from what I was used to at church. Freedom to live & worship, I learned so much from the series this past semester, each sermon felt like God was chipping at yet another part of my brokenness. And then all the beautiful people I met as God introduced us to each other, learning to love His people, family. Getting involved in ministries. I could go on.....

3) Job: God knew, and provided. Despite the complaints, I really really am so thankful for my job. My bosses are adorable and very pleasant. She gave me toe socks for Christmas! Being in the work environment is also teaching me patience, remembering that we are meant to be light in darkness. Even to the mean lady in the copy room and the kind of intimidating short lady who stares into my room all the time with the loud phone voice.

I am excited for 2009. A little scared, I will admit. But excited.