Goodbye 2009.

With only a few hours remaining in 2009, I can't say that I am sad to see it go. This year has been filled with many different things, some of them that couldn't possibly be explained with words. However, during this reflective moment, I will try to examine life in 2009.

Like that of a rollercoaster, 2009 has brought hills, dips, loops, highs and lows. Parts of life have new meaning, while other parts have yet to be discovered. One such area of new meaning is my relationship with God. During 2009 I have been able to reach certain milestones in my faith, some of which I would never imagine taking place. Through faith, people, servitude, and an open mind; I've realized several things: (in no particular order)

*I am a college graduate. I finally finished my undergraduate degree, earning a BA in English-Communications. That in itself is a huge accomplishment for me. I am the first (and only so far) person in my family to attend college, much less graduate.

*Being a Christian is more than a label or a lifestyle. It is a relationship. While the lifestyle is important too, it is impossible and pointless to live the life style unless you have a relationship with God. I probably learned that the hard way.

*God has a calling on my life, a calling that I've known for a while, but refused to listen. God has called me into full-time ministry. As of right now, I don't believe it is the traditional preaching role, although I am sure that area of ministry is not off limits. I believe that I am to use my passion for education, love of the future generations, and my gift of music to students. While "students" seem pretty general, God will place me in front of open doors.

*Most importantly (relating to the above), I surrendered to God's calling in 2009. I will be starting graduate school, earning a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in English Education. It will not be a cake walk, but I have not been placed into a situation that I can't possibly succeed.

While the first part of 2009 was great, the last part is certainly been tough for me to swallow at times. Certain things such as difficulty finding a job, moving back home, leaving the only church I ever really felt comfortable in, and lack of success in the relationship department; have made me realize that there are still areas of life that have yet to be discovered. I realize the old saying, "Good things come to those who wait." Being very impatient, waiting is not something that I typically handle very well. I get that life involves waiting (which is especially true when serving the Lord), but I can honestly say I am beyond tired of waiting. Impatient flew out the window several months ago. Now, I battle a sea of emotions ranging from anxiety (yes-anxiety) to confusion on to worthlessness and even anger. So, with that said, I will say so long 2009. I am ready to hit 2010 head on. I want to build new relationships, strengthen existing ones, serve God, and be an example for the whole world to see.

Welcome 2010. May you bring peace, love, and happiness. May you fill the cups of those who are empty. May you reveal things yet to be discovered about life.