Before I embrace the craziness of memories and what are sure to be some embarrassing photos and stories I am reminded of what has taken place to leave me with just 1 hour and now 10 minutes until my 26th birthday.
It was 10 years ago that I went to dinner with some friends not realizing that one of the guys sitting around the table would end up marrying my sister and give me the privilege of being an aunt.
It was 8 years ago that my sister and her college friends saved the day and took my friends and I to In an Out which ended being so much more fun than what I had planned.
It was 6 years ago that I convinced my roommates that jumping out of a plane was a good idea, little did I know it wouldn't be my last time.
It has been 3 years since I waited in the family room for my dad's parents to arrive for my birthday lunch, and to read each hand written note before opening the carefully thought out present.
Looking back over the last 12 months I am overwhelmed by the memories. I have had to say goodbye to family and friends whose time here ended too soon, I have had to say see you soon to friends as they moved on to their next adventure around the world, and I have also had some wonderful hellos.
I have had the honor of saying hello to Australians who although not all of our words may mean the same thing, their ability to love me transcends; to Zimbabweans who's passion for God and building His Kingdom stir my desire even greater, to countless young women who give me the honor to do life with them and reveal more about who God is every time we sit together.
My year has been filled with some of the most challenging moments of my life but also the most rewarding. Having my family by my side as I was baptized, sitting in the back of the room as my roommate proposed her dissertation topic for her doctoral degree, watching friends say I do, and cheering for my brother's alma mater and current law school teams at they battled up and down the football field (I am so proud of you buddy!).
Of all the memories and stories I can recall from the last year, I am left speechless at the incredible people I am blessed to do life with. So with 21 minutes left to spare before the well wishes begin I want to say THANK YOU to all of you who shape me into the 26 year old that I am.
Thank you for reminding me that my identity is not found in this world but in God's word spoken long ago, that my purpose is greater than even my wildest dreams, that my worries are cared for and heard, that I am loved, that I am seen, that I am remembered.
You are who I celebrate today, the unbelievable people who love me so well.
God Bless each of you.
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