I’ve heard it said
That people come into our lives for a reason
Bringing something we must learn
And we are led
To those who help us most to grow
If we let them….And we help them in return.
So much of me
Is made of what I learned from you.
You’ll be with me
Like a handprint on my heart.
And now whatever way our stories end
I know you have rewritten mine
By being my friend…
Because I knew you, I’ve been changed for good.
Danielle, my beautiful and precious friend, I know you are reading this and wanted to dedicate this post to YOU. Words cannot even begin to express the depth of my love for you. It goes far, deep and wide.
I owe all my debt and gratitude to you, for you will forever be intertwined in my World Race journey. I never even would have most likely known about the World Race or even contemplated doing this. It was all because we sat down and you said “Lauren, I have something I want to tell you about that I can really see you doing…” The rest is literally history as I prayed and sought God about this year long missions opportunity and as I have kept walking through open door after open door, with such a peace that I’m doing exactly what I’m supposed to be doing. You never made me feel like I was crazy. You’ve always had all the faith in the world in me. You have been one of my biggest cheerleaders and supporters. This is going to change my life and shape me and mold me in ways I will not even be able to comprehend and it will always point back to you, and Jesus of course. Danielle, I think about your role and place in my life and my heart can’t help but smile.
Each and every step of this journey I will be carrying you with me and I cannot wait for you to watch this adventure unfold that you have had a strategic part in. Thank you for your authentic friendship and love. You are my forever friend and there truly is a place in my heart for you that no one else will fill. Even as I spend a year countries away, you will never be far from my heart. I know you will be praying for me and loving me from afar, as I will be doing the same for you.
You are one of a kind and I’m glad you’re mine.
I love you.
