Joy (n) — the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying.
I have been filled with so much joy over the past few weeks… I THINK I MIGHT BURST!
It’s as though there has been a fire lit within me. I have a desire to share this amazing God-given opportunity with anyone and everyone. Although, it is funny how such a simple word can be quite intimidating…fundraise!
When I first sat down to write my support letter, I was at a loss for words. As a field hockey coach at a university, I find myself frequently writing similar letters to student-athletes and alumni. In a work setting, the words seem steadfast and the send button is pressed with such ease. One would think that writing a letter about this amazing journey I am about to embark on would flow beautifully from my mind through my fingers. Not the case. I live in a cubicle some days and one night as I struggled with my letter, a good friend came by with words of encouragement; something along the lines of “You’ve been blessed with this gift so don’t be afraid to share it!”. Shout out to the lovely and talented Ann Armes! Cubicle love…it’s like your thoughts hop from one cube to the next. (And an apology to my cube mates for making unnecessary noises ALL the time)
My fingers came to life after that brief motivational speech. My support letter is currently circulating all over the place…from Delaware to California to New Zealand (no, I didn’t send it to Gandalf, though I wish I could). My mom sent me a long list of addresses of folks who played a huge role in my life as a rascally little tot in Seaford, Delaware. I took the time to read the list of names and memories came flooding back to me. A childhood best friend who I haven’t seen in years, a husband and wife I considered my second parents, and the list goes on and on. (Thanks again mom!) I was intimidated by the list but then I realized that God put these people in my life for a reason and though I feel bad that communication between the two of us has been nonexistent, I want them to know how much their impact on my life is appreciated. I want them to be a part of this journey…to be a part of something so much bigger than ourselves.
“Lift up your eyes on high, and see who has created these, who brings out their army by number. He calls them all by name. By the greatness of his might, and because he is strong in power, not one is lacking.” Isaiah 40:26
