What does it mean to be “perfect”? Does it mean being Valedictorian of your graduating class? Holding several offices in countless organizations? Being captain of a sport’s team? Competing in national competitions in gymnastics? Having a lot of friends? Working two (if not three jobs) to pay for things so you wouldn’t have to borrow money?
My whole life, I have strived to be “perfect.” I have accomplished all of these things to try to gain approval from my family, friends, teachers, and co-workers. If only I had it all together, then people will like me and I can win their love… I was all wrong.
Recently, I have learned that it is not about being perfect. There is only one person that was perfect and that was Jesus. I will never be able to compare to him, BUT I can try to be more like him every day. Instead of focusing my energy on being the best, I need to focus my life on loving others as Christ has loved me. Instead of pushing people down so I can be one step closer to the top, I must humble myself at the feet of Christ. Instead of trying to do it all on my own, I must lay my burdens down and allow Christ to help me through this journey.
This is a lesson that doesn’t come easy and things don’t change overnight. I know this is something I will be learning throughout the next year as I journey around the world. With it will come hard times, tears, and frustrations. But at the same time will come victories, joy, and a lifetime of freedom!
To those I have hurt along the way, I’M SORRY!
To those that have hurt me along the way, I’M LEARNING TO FORGIVE!
To those that have been by my side, THANK YOU!
