Palm Trees or Snow? ♡
09 December, 2015
Hey everyone. Life has been going a million miles per hour, but it's been a blast. This past weekend, I spent four nights in my favorite spot in the whole wide world - Santa Monica (see my pic above from a walk Friday morning)! I laughed with my college friends, skipped on the beach, drank literally 700 green juices, ate at all my fav places (TrueFood in particular, 3 times!), hit my fav farmers market in Malibu, walked around First Friday's in Venice, and laid out at my fav hotel pool - the Loew's overlooking the Santa Monica pier. It was... wonderful. (*insert tear for having to leave)
I didn't have any time to be sad about leaving, however, because upon arriving back home in Wisconsin, life was in full swing. I met with the county police chief for lunch and was given a tour of the county jail yesterday (pictured left), and this morning I went to a panel for local business leaders (pictured right). I have another meeting tonight for dinner for local business leaders, a showcase for the local school district tomorrow night, and then a business party AND a charity wine tasting Friday night! Then I am seeing a few friends perform in the Nutcracker on Saturday night!
I share all this because while I was in Santa Monica, every part of my being wanted to move back there. I felt completely at home. But - having returned, I am seeing the fruit of living in my hometown. I can have an immediate impact on the community since it's smaller. There is more opportunity to get hands-on with officials and make a real difference.
Is that to say that I'm staying here forever? I do not know. I am 23 years old and single and living with my parents. I have a great job which I love and good friends in the local area. Does that mean I should stay forever? What do I do? Where do I go?
As young people, things can be tough. Quite crummy, at times, trying to figure out our path in life. But, that is the beauty of having a God who guides and loves. He opens opportunities in our lives we could have never done without his help. Without Him, I never would have had the guts to speak with local leaders and get involved. I wouldn't have the confidence to know I am a capable young woman with a future He alone will pave.
When we look down at ourselves, we see imperfections. When we look up at Him, we see perfection. Therefore, instead of looking down at our circumstances - "Where do I belong? What should I do? Am I strong enough to do a, b, and c?" - we can look UP at the God who loves us more than we love ourselves.
He is a gracious, loving God. He gives us free choice, but He also steers those who ask for His help.
If you are confused, pray. If you are not satisfied with your life, pray. If you are lonely, pray. If you are insecure, pray.
I don't know what my future holds, but I DO know who holds my future. He can hold yours, too.
All you need to do is look up and say YES!
p.s. I'm hoping to be back in LA in March for my birthday to see this cutie pie sing at the Staples Center!
