"...you're like flowers that bloom once a generation, and the more you grow the more beautiful you will become..." I LOVE IT!

So today I turn 23... It's funny because when I was a kid I thought 23 was old! But now that I am, I don't believe that it is although I do feel a bit old. I keep looking at the people around me and the milestones that happened in their lives when they were 23. Two of my friends married when they were 23. My sister celebrated her first wedding anniversary at age 23. My friend's mom had a 4yr old and 2 yr old by the time she was 23. My mom was pregnant with her 2nd child at age 23. My friend started dating her now husband when she was 23. whew! It makes me think, what am I doing with my life? I always felt like 23 was a year for me to do something great. I am still a bit clueless as to how I can make my 23rd year eventful. However, I woke up with so much joy and peace. I am happy that 23 years ago, the Lord knit me carefully and artistically in my mother's womb :) I am joyful with the love I have in the Lord and I know He has great plans for my life :)

     I'm amazed at how the Lord works. I'm amazed at how he uses painful experiences to teach us, to strengthen us and to mature us. I have learned obedience, forgiveness, purity, love, and the the things each bring about when you acquire them. These are simple words but the Lord taught me the weight of each one through hardships. I am sad but at the same time joyful because of what the Lord is accomplishing in my life. All I know right now is it's a wonderful feeling knowing that I am where the Lord wants me today. I am ready to move forward with a hopeful heart. I am excited for what God is going to do. I am ready to put the past behind and press on towards the goal that I have in Christ. I have joy knowing that my Maker is carrying me, and that I have peace. I am happy knowing that I am not alone and that my hope comes from Him.