Yesterday was my 29th birthday. I will be spending the last year of my 20’s doing something I am extremely passionate about and I couldn’t be more excited.
My weekend was filled with lots of love and support, in many different ways. Saturday was spent with friends. Friends that I love and will miss terribly. I try not to think about the fact that I’m going to be gone for 11 months but every time I see them, I’m reminded of how much they truly love me and I couldn’t be more grateful. Sunday I traveled to my home town, Linesville, PA where I went to church with people that love and support me. The sermon was great (shout out to Pr. Art!) and I always feel like I never left when I visit.
Our family celebrated Easter at my uncles farm, picnic style. With a day as nice as yesterday how could you not grill out and soak up some sun on the deck. We watched the kids as they ran around the yard for easter eggs, even though Sonny had already found them and knew what was in each one. As they all sat and checked each one for candy or money I couldn’t help but capture the innocent moment.
Shortly after Sonny had her eggs emptied she went around and offered everyone a piece of candy. It was melted and messy but she didn’t want to wait 15 minutes for it to set in the fridge. This little girl has such a sharing heart.
As I was getting ready to leave, Sonny went in the house and came running out with a fist full of cash. She held it out to me saying “My mom told me you need this more than I do, I want you to use it for your mission.” My heart melted as I reluctantly took it from her hand. She followed up with a giant hug, innocently saying, “It’s every thing I have, except my cents.”
Guys, it doesn’t matter how much she gave me. It could have been all of her “cents”…what matters is her heart. She’s going to be 9 this year, I don’t want her to lose her giving heart. I am so happy to be on the receiving end right now, but these are the things I’m going to treasure for the next 2 months, and miss for 11 months. These moments. If I wouldn’t have accepted her money I would have robbed her of what ever feelings she had as she gave it to me.
Folks, that is my favorite birthday gift. I received money from a lot of people for my birthday. I am most certainly grateful for each and every person who has supported me this far, but an innocent child and a raw heart, that is my favorite.
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