Finding Happiness. Finding Faith.

After Spring Break, I knew my schedule would be super busy: Conference Tournament. Softball Games. Greek Week. Step Sing. Tests. Homework. You get the idea. At the beginning of April, I began writing a Bible verse down on a sticky note for each week in my planner. I try to focus on a message that I can relate to at the time. With all of the craziness going on, I sometimes tend to focus on the negatives in my life instead of the positives. Recently I have tried to remind myself of people, places, or activities that make me happy, and the list makes me smile:

My Nephew

When I found out I was going to be an Aunt, I didn't really know how to feel. It was something I was not expecting to happen as soon as it did, but on December 29th my life forever changed. I love my family dearly, and this bundle of joy has been the perfect addition to our lives. Last semester I would go home whenever I could just to see my parents and siblings, but now I have an even sweeter excuse to make that one hour drive. He is 100% worth the mileage, and I am happy God granted me the chance to be his Aunt. I cannot think of what my family would be like without Connor, but I can only imagine the lessons I will be taught while being a part of his life.

A Conference Championship

"When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the Lord your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you. When you are about to go into battle, the priest shall come forward and address the army. He shall say: “Hear, Israel: Today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not panic or be terrified by them. For the Lord your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.” Deuteronomy 20:1-4

My Beautiful Mother

She listens to me complain at least once a day. She accepts me for my flaws. She loves me unconditionally. She understands my anxiety. She gives me advice on the daily. It's simple...she is my mother. I've never met someone so caring regardless of how she is treated or talked to. Her love for those who need it the most is a character trait I hope to live up to. Our relationship is something I have found rare among many families. Although I crave to travel the world and experience life on my own, I cannot imagine making memories without her by my side. As I grow older, I cherish the days when she drove me over two hours to and from travel ball practice two to three times a week so I could play the game I love... the numerous sunburns she has received while cheering me on at almost every single game I have ever played in my entire life... the moments when we sat in random places in my childhood home talking about life and its struggles... the times she has hugged and held me while I cry on her shoulder during the dark days... but more importantly all the years she has spent forming me into the person I am today. I am thankful to be considered her "mini me" and blessed to have her as a role model.

Jesus

Why not save the best for last? I have felt the Lord moving in my heart and life during this past semester. Being a college student can quickly take you away from the things that originally meant the most to you. While I might have drifted away from reading God's word or listening to what He was trying to tell me, He has never left my side. How amazing is it that you can turn your back on someone but He will never turn you away? I admit to drifting away from God and ignoring his messages. I often made excuses and convinced myself one day I would get around to becoming more disciplined with God's word. It isn't something that is easy to admit to others, but once you think back to the place you were and the person you have now become...WOW!! God is continuing to work in my life during every opportunity I am presented with, and I have learned to Let Go and Let God. His purpose for me is greater than any plans I could ever envision for myself.

"Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." Proverbs 19:21
I often ask myself "How can I help myself?" On late nights when I am studying or writing a paper, I think about the ways I can help myself in getting through the tough times. Friends. Family. Food? While they are all great options, nothing has proven itself more than God's love and the intentions He has for my life. I know all the plans I have in my heart for myself: all the places I want to travel, with the people I want to meet, with the love I want to share and with the experiences I hope to be granted.

Are my plans the same for myself that the Lord has for me? 
How will I know? When will I know? Who will tell me? 

As I sit here thinking about the future, I cannot help but think about the past. God has already given me such an amazing life that I shouldn't waste time complaining about. While some days are harder than others, I need to put more focus on the positives in my life while avoiding the negative thoughts. The Lord has never failed me before, so why would He start now? While I know the desires of my heart, I must trust in God's intentions for my life and the plan He already has put into motion.

I pray others are given the opportunity to reflect on life and who/what gives them happiness. God has created such a beautiful place for us to enjoy each and every day, and you will be amazed at the joy you can experience when you just stop and reflect. Love God & Love Life.

With Love & Laughter,
Alison