Then And Now
Then, I would ride in a car anywhere I wanted to go. Now, I ride in a smelly 14 passenger van with 20 other people.
Then, I would throw my clothes in a washing machine. Now, I hand wash and then iron everything so that fly eggs aren’t laid in my clothes, to later hatch in my skin.
Then, I smelled good every day. Now, I cannot remember the last time I smelled good for an entire day.
Then, I would drive my car to the grocery store and carry the groceries home in my trunk. Now, I walk to the grocery store and carry the groceries home in a large backpack.
Then, I could find and use wireless internet literally anywhere. Now, I must pay a dollar for 10 minutes of usage.
Then, I could call someone on my phone, they would pick up, and we would talk. Now, I use Skype, that sometimes works… When I can find internet… And pay a dollar a minute for it… Any then maybe they will pick up.
Then, I enjoyed air-conditioning. Now, I sleep with a fan (SO thankful to have this month!), the window open, and about 14,000 flying bugs.
Then, I didn’t think twice about buying a snack or a new shirt. Now, I live on a missionaries budget and heavily think about every purchase I make.
Then, I had my own space and a place to retreat anytime I wanted. Now, I stay back from fun activities, just to be alone.
Then, I wore a clean new outfit everyday. Now, one outfit is still clean after three wears.
Then, I was unhappy where I was. Now, I have never had more joy.
Then, I was fearful of change. Now, I anticipate and enjoy change.
Then, I was living a life of “should”. Now, I am living a life of “want”.
Then, I was a consistent church goer. Now, I am a passionate follower.
Then, I was complacent and satisfied. Now, I will never be satisfied with the amount of Spirit I have.
Then, I was immature in my walk. Now, I am more mature and level headed in my relationship with Christ (Still have more to go. Always will).
While I am broke, smelly, tired most of the time, unreachable, and have zero fashion sense, I am full of joy, peace, passion, and purpose. There’s no where else I had rather be than here and now.
One day… I’ll miss the stink.
