There's nothing like a move to put your life in perspective. For all of you wondering why I suddenly packed up a truck and left Houston for Tyler, the short answer is: one of my jobs was turned into a voluntary position. Yes, I'm fine. No really, I'm fine. I mean it--Fine. Really. God has been so gracious with my heart and mind through this whole process. I could hazard a dozen guesses at what all He was/is doing with this, but as I have no solid answers, I will keep those thoughts to myself for now. What I would like to talk about is actually a byproduct of this whole adventure.
Because of the timing of things, I ended up saying "goodbye" in tiers. As each job came to a close (I was up to three,) I would go through the "goodbye" process again. I'm not that great with in person goodbyes. I do much better with notes (as many of you can attest to.) But the hardest ones by far were the people I regretted not talking with more. So here's my advice. Don't put off talking with people--whatever the reason may be. If there is a rift between you and someone, go talk to them! If you have a friend or family member you're worried about because of the life decisions they are making, go talk with them! If you know someone who is going through a rough time, go talk with them, or more importantly, go listen to them! If there is someone who always lifts your spirits, tell them. If there is someone you admire, tell them. If there is someone who gives great advice, or is a great listener, or is just a close friend (or family member) tell them! My fellow Christians, if you have someone who is struggling spiritually, go talk with them. If you have friends who think you're crazy for what you believe in, go talk with them! If you DON'T KNOW their opinions on the matter go talk to them!!!! A "goodbye" could be waiting right around the corner for you. Don't wait.
Trust me on this. "Tomorrow" is not the best option to bank on. And as Point of Grace once sang, "This day is fleeting, when it slips away, not all our money can buy back this day..." So Today, let's put people first. Let's ask the questions, do the catching up, give the encouragement, call out the good (and bad--in love.) Because waiting too often leads to regret.
