July 31, 2018
I picture myself in 20-25 years… will I be that seasoned, wise woman of God like my mother? Or the woman who sits across from me in community group who unselfishly pours her time into the food pantry? Or a new grandma imparting wisdom to my daughter-in-law? How will these years right now, shape me for the future? What will be the story I tell then, about what happens in our family over the next 6 months?
Sometimes I get so caught up in the short-term, that I neglect thinking about the long-term. Who am I kidding? It’s not sometimes, it’s most of the time. Raising young children can do that to you. I am constantly reminding them to think about their actions and the consequences. Daily, I am working with them to build healthy, positive, life giving habits that will carry them now and in the future. I envision my three boys as men, serving God and others, changing the world for the better.
But what about me?
Shouldn’t I visualize my own future?
I’ve fulfilled the goals that I had for myself as a young woman. I made it successfully through high school and college, earning my degrees. I had a career as a result of my college degree (maybe not what I anticipated, but I’ll say it was successful). I married the love of my life and we moved to a city with opportunities. I have three beautiful, healthy boys who call me Mama. My family found a loving, active church where we can serve and grow. And, the dream I didn’t realize or expect, to write and publish my own book.
I’m not that young, wrinkle-free twenty-something anymore. I carry the scars, physically and emotionally of a woman who has lived a good portion of her life. Time passing, more quickly each day, as I approach a different stage of my life.
God has big plans.
I don’t know what they are yet. All I know, is that God is faithful. I should be too. I can take these lessons, advice, encouragement that I give to my boys, and remind myself that they apply to me too.
*Live healthy. Spiritually, physically, mentally.
*Think about your actions. Words, habits, routines.
*Remember there are consequences. Good and bad.
*Give life. With words and actions, in love.
I know that if I can follow these guidelines myself, I will be the woman He designed me to be. I just might need a reminder of that picture of the future. Fine lines and a few extra pounds? Sure, why not? As long as it’s in the middle of God’s plan, I’ll take it. I look forward to seeing where He takes me.
What will your story be?
Jodi Arndt 