One Year Ago

Last year on Friday night of the BBQ Festival, I was just settling in to Henderson. I went to the youth talent show with some of my friends (the Gotts and the Hicks). I didn’t know anyone who was performing but they pointed out the ones who were members of the church. I was just getting to know the Gotts.

I was happy. And I specifically remember thinking, “I wonder what a year from now will be like. Will I be closer to these people? Will I be settled and happy here?”

Let’s fast forward to tonight. I went to the BBQ Festival by myself to cheer on some girls in the youth group who performed in the talent show. The Gotts were busy and the Hicks were out of town but I had no problem finding other friends to hang out with there (the Thompson's, Deffenbaugh's, and Cross') who I've gotten to knwo over the past year. We laughed, talked, ate, and watched the talent show. I cheered on 3 girls who I've taught in Bible class and gotten to know over the past year.

I helped Robert and Elizabeth finish moving into their new place (where my friend Bethany used to live and I crashed at frequently). Last year, they had just begun dating and now they are married. Sasha and Ashley are about to have babies. I stopped by the youth group lock-in to hang out with the kids who I’ve missed so much lately. They’re such a blessing in my life, and I don’t even think they realize it.

This year, things have happened that I would have never expected (both bad and good), but I’m still settled and happy here. Last year, I never in my wildest dreams thought that I’d be dating Jonathan now. Last year he was just a friend. I never thought I would be considering moving to Ohio. Henderson was my anchor. I chose it as my home.

Overall, I’m proud of this year (some parts more than others.) I’ve grown and matured. I’m more focused and happier. I’ve got the best support system ever: amazing friends, a wonderful boyfriend, and my amazing God. I can only hope that this coming year is going to be just as awesome.

I never know what God has in store for me. I don’t know where I’ll be in a year…whether in Henderson or Ohio or Brazil. Single or dating or engaged. Alive. It’s a morbid thought, but I feel like it needs to be said. I just don’t know what’s going to happen.