During one of my hardest times on the race so far, I got some helpful advice that showed me it was okay to not be okay. Wrapped in the arms of a hug, I was assured that I had a community to lift me up. Tears streaming down my face in the senior home courtyard, I was told that if my best I could give was 20% than my best was more than enough because I was showing up. Even if I couldn’t show up, I was guaranteed that the Father doesn’t hold me to the same standard that I hold myself to and wants me to step into grief and take time for it.
This encouragement and proof of the Fathers love was poured unto me by my squad leader Jackie.
This is Jackie. (middle squeeze!)
She gives the best hugs, is learning how to improve her crusty whip, loves “agua con gas”, and constantly points us higher.
Today just so happens to be Jackie’s birthday, so here’s a “thank you”
Thanks, Jackie that you lead us with compassion and love.
Thanks, Jackie for your constant outpour of creativity and encouraging us to use our creativity for the glory of God.
Thanks that you provide the best shoulder to cry on and always have ears to listen.
Thanks for loving me, Jackie.
Also since it’s her birthday, here are some “cheers” to the new year ahead.
Cheers to more sparkling natural water and Ecuadorian lollipops.
Cheers to more laughs and amazing team dinners.
Cheers to more laughs that turn into tears of happiness, and tears that turn into laughs.
Cheers to growing deeper with each other and more importantly growing deeper with the Father.
Cheers to twenty-seven years, may this be the best one yet.
Happy Birthday, Jackie!
