Most people that hear you are born in December have negative reactions: “Oh you poor thing, so close to Christmas.” “Does everyone forget about you during the Holidays?”
While some of the statements are correct, the assumptions behind them aren’t. Yes, well observed, my birthday in December is indeed around Christmas, but boy do I make the most out of it. Honestly, people only remember birthdays now through Facebook, so the ones that I expect to remember mine are always on top of it. And better yet, I normally can be with them, because we are on Christmas break!
One of my favorite parts about having a birthday so close to Christmas is the reminder of God’s love for us. And as I celebrate another year of my life, I cannot help but to be in awe of His grace over me. Twenty six years of so many changes. Moving through so many cities, building lifelong relationships that have taken care of me. Twenty six years of learning. Learning with my parents about God’s unending love and His forgiveness. Learning with mentors about empowerment and about having the courage to follow my heart. Learning with my professors to critically look at life and to not be afraid to ask questions. And so much more. I have grown more mature through these relationships and lessons. It was not always fun, but it was/is necessary.
I am yet to have had a birthday where I knew exactly what the next year would be like. I have always blown those candles and hoped for an even better year. But this birthday is going to be different. I am celebrating with a very planned life for the next 20 months. As I mentioned in previous posts, the trip starts now! Seven months of hard work to save and fundraise as much money as I can. Two months of preparation: training Camp in August, finishing touches in September. Eleven months of the greatest adventure.
This birthday I celebrate with the uncertainty of how these “planned” moths will actually be like. But with the certainty that God will work through me. This Birthday, even though it is around Christmas, even though many might forget it, I ask that you pray for these next 20 months, and for my trip. And, if you are able, donate whatever quantity you seem fit.
p.s . Any questions about the trip, please let me know in the comments, or shoot me an email. I am more then happy to chat and answer them.
