My Birthday Post: An Open Letter

I wouldn’t be me, if I didn’t write a birthday post.

My crew and I, minus Keli, are staying in a hotel on the beach in Myrtle Beach.  God gave us this gift for under $100.  I expected some pathetic, run down place, but instead we have been treated to a suite on the 18th floor with a full kitchen and a great view of the ocean.  I am amazed.

And after reading all of my Facebook “Happy Birthday Posts”—-200 plus of them—I am blessed, extremely blessed.

Another year older, it’s hard to believe.  It’s funny, though, because I see life more as another year since I became a believer.  Another year since Jack went to prison.  And that’s how I evaluate things.

As I look back over those years, I’m amazed at how much God has done in me and for me and my crew.  How much He has provided, protected, blessed and taught me.  I am not the same person I was.  Some things have changed for the better;  some things are still very hard and painful and very difficult to understand.  But in it all, I see God’s grace poured out upon our lives time and time again.  And I am grateful.

Please know that I am overwhelmed by each of your love and support.  I treasure each word of encouragement, I truly do.  You have no idea how much they help me to get up another day and keep going.  Keep moving forward.  I am appreciative, which seems such a paltry word to use.  But it’s true.

I have much to do in the year ahead.  So much to learn.  Much I sense God has called me to.  And much to do with my crew–to see them continue to grow into confident and godly men and women.  I can only work hard to continue to guide them and pray daily that God will penetrate their lives to the fullest and protect them.

This past year went so fast, and I know this next year will, too.  Time here is short, my friends.  What are we going to do with the time we are given?  What am I going to do with the time I am given?

Much love and gratitude to every single one of you,

S