Another opportunity to 'BECOME'!

Man, I can't believe its already the middle of January. Time flies by at an incredibly fast pace. Its hard to keep up sometimes. I was just stalking myself on facebook - haha and I realized how much I love that I'm able to look back at past pictures and posts and then reflect on where I was, where I am now and even dream about and adjust where I'm going. If you would have asked me a year and a half ago where I saw myself right now...I definately wouldn't have thought I'd be all the way out in Virginia. I most definately wouldn't have anticipated any of the huge changes that have occured in such a short time span, but...when I think about it, I'm so happy I am where I am. I have a great job, I live in a beautiful city, state and have the cutest little home this semester. I have amazing friends, and opportunities to serve and love. I've been given so many chances to become the BEST individual I can be. I never thought I would enjoy living in such a small city, but it has given me an opportunity to refocus on whats most important in my life and make directional changes. I've been able to develop a relationship with myself that I like and I've been developing a stronger relationship with my Heavenly Father and his Son, Jesus Christ. I'm coming to know them in ways I've never before discovered. Its funny how life is sometimes. For example, I had this pretty great car (2002 Honda Accord - fully loaded). Well, it broke down last semester. This car was my 'baby'. Yet, everything in my life this past semester seemed to be falling apart. I struggled with housemates, my class load, my job, my church calling, my self-esteem and lots of other things. It tried the faith I had in myself as well as my Savior. So, having my car break down just seemed to be one more thing to pile on. I wasn't sure how I was going to make it. I had days I just couldn't seem to get out of bed. I felt lost, helpless, hurt and I was on the verge of completely giving up. Well, I can't tell you how many times I had instances that proved me wrong (just about every time). I was surrounded by love. So many people around me would somehow be in the right place at the right time and would lift me up. I had so many tender mercies everyday...even among all the awful that I was surrounded and distressed by. Last semester, I learned some pretty tough lessons. I was humbled by my circumstances and still am being humbled. I've learned to allow others to help me and love me. I'm learning to 'let go and let god.' I've learned how to love those I don't necessarily get along with. I'm learning how to look past the imperfections of myself and those around me, I'm learning more about what I'm capable of and what I like and don't like...plus so much more. I know that if I had chosen another path I probably would have learned these same lessons, but I like the path I've chosen and followed. Its been such an eye opening experience and I know the Lord has blessed me because of my faith and willingness to go through certain things. I know that I'm being constantly prepared for my future - my husband, children and others I have yet to meet. I love the person I am becoming and I'm grateful everyday for the chance I'm given to better myself in every aspect of my life. I know that everything happens for a reason and I love that I get the chance to share my experiences and testimony to help lift and inspire those around me. God's plan is PERFECT for each one of us and He is so intricately involved in our lives, I know as we allow Him in...we will continue to BECOME all He knows we are capable of Becoming. Heres to a New Year and making it better than the last. :) Carpe Diem!