12/01/2023
As this day ends just a few thoughts:
Today was a day of extremes. It's been a tough year. It was my first birthday without my Dad, and I really miss him. Just a few days ago, his sister passed unexpectedly, so still processing that. Many health challenges for the wife and I, and other things. So to be completely transparent, I didn't really feel like celebrating a birthday today. But what all that led to was me realizing a few things. First and foremost I realized what an incredibly blessed life I've had. I also understand that I am God's creation fabricated by Him for Him! There is simply nothing that supersedes that incredible truth. I'd be negligent if I didn't pause and state that whoever is reading this, that same truth applies to you. Whether you believe it or not is your business, but it doesn't alter its truth. I also had to remind myself that ultimately my value will be defined solely by how I fulfilled the kingdom purpose for which I was created. When God asked Adam "Where art you" he wasn't asking where he was. What he was asking is "Where are you in relation to what I created you to do? " So I asked myself if God asked me that on my 63rd birthday how would I answer? I'm not telling you the answer, but what it did was snap me out of my "Woe is me" stupor and realize that my latter WILL be greater than my past. And given the fact that my past has been pretty blessed, I'm excited about the future! Yes, life happens to us all, and that brings happiness and sadness our way. Those 2 dynamics are fluid. But joy is not subject to circumstances. It is a by product of my relationship with my Savior. So simple reasoning days greater relationship equals greater joy!
I haven't read all of the birthday wishes yet but I've read enough to know that I am so blessed to have shared my life with so many wonderful people. Thank each of you for showing me some love!
I'll end with this:I had a great day ending with a date with my awesome wife to see the Spurs play the Hawks. Quick note...Trae Young is different! I've always been a fan, but sometimes you can't truly grasp a players greatness to you see them in person. I felt the same way when I saw LeBron in person the first time. You realize that they are playing a different game than the other players. Trae is like that. I have a whole new appreciation of his greatness. I think he had 42 points and 16 assists!
And Wemby is as advertised BUT he is a boy playing with grown men. That is the overwhelming thought I had watching him. But so skilled! In 3-4 years he will be untouchable!
Anyway, I'll close by saying i absolutely refuse to let the enemy still my joy and distract me from my purpose and I encourage you to do the same thing! Well I've got an early tee time tomorrow, so I'd better get a few hours of sleep!
Blessings to all!
