Is it supposed to feel like waking up with no plans for the day except to soak each moment in as it comes drifting towards you? Is it supposed to feel like a desire to DO, but only the motivation to be still and absorb? Is it supposed to feel like the culmination of every mistake, mishap, and mix-up from your twenties instantly transformed into anticipation of new beginnings, goals, and the next thrilling decade?
I woke up just the same as yesterday- dogs rattling their neck jewelry and breathing in my face until I couldn’t ignore their not-so-nonchalant attempts to wake me. I slothed my way into the kitchen to pour my cup of personality for the day and then I sat down to read what words of wisdom the grand ole Creator of the Universe had for me this day; the celebration of thirty years from the day He gave me a chance in this thing called life…
If the Lord delights in a man’s way, He makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand. –Psalm 37: 23-24
My phone beeped and buzzed consistently throughout the day with birthday wishes from old friends, new friends, red friends, and blue friends. I spent time reminiscing with my mom and dad, as the buttered naan and chicken masala took us back to memories of India – sweating spices from every pore and laughing until we cried at the most inappropriate of stories; she wasn’t selling potatoes after all, those were her arms (God forgives, Megan). I blasted the music while, ironically, on the way to the quietest place I know. My footsteps on the boardwalk were the only sounds that were made by something other than His creation.
I have done my fair share of stumbling over that last three decades. There were times that it seemed like falling would be easier. There were times that I was paralyzed with fear of making the wrong next step, that I stopped moving forward at all. There were times I felt like I was walking alone.
Today was ordinary in the most extraordinary way. Today I walked and did not stumble. Today the thought of falling led to thoughts of freedom instead of failure. Today I took each step with confidence because I KNEW that I was not alone. Not only did my friends and family go to great lengths to make this birthday a special one, but He made His presence known and felt in so many tangible ways.
You have made known to me the faith of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand. –Psalm 16:11
Don’t wait for your next big day. Life with Him makes the ordinary extraordinary.
Thank you for a beautiful day, friends. The best is yet to come!
