Tears of Joy (and a little Sadness)

I was sitting on the sidelines at Jackson's soccer game when Mike called to tell me of the age change announcement for missionaries from 19 to 18 for boys, and more poignantly for me the age from 21 to 19 for girls.  Initially I felt such a rush of joy I started to weep behind my sunglasses. I couldn't believe what this would mean for my own daughters and more broadly for all of the young women I know and love.  But after a few minutes I started to feel the pain of how serving a mission was something I had wanted to do so badly at 19, but couldn't because of the 21 year old policy.  I wondered how different my life story would be if I had been able to experience mission life and growth. I'm sure it would have helped me be less selfish a lot sooner in life, as well as teach me about humility and service.

But then I remembered that God's ways are not my ways.  And I started thinking about all of the beautiful blessings I have experienced on my path:  Jerusalem, graduating from college, teaching, marriage, mothering, serving, Since then I have come to appreciate the path I have been given.  I also realize I'm still on the journey and that every time I interact with someone who doesn't know there is a God, or feels sad and needs comforting, I am gradually fulfilling the mission I longed for so many years ago.   

Comments

  1. Eric and RozanneNovember 1, 2012 at 4:20 PM

    Alex is so VERY excited! It is a little scary for me to think that he can leave in about a year and a half now, but it is so much better. It will alleviate that "waiting period" where he couldn't really get started in college yet, but couldn't leave on a mission either. It was so inspired!!

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