There were days in which I'd close my eyes and dream that I was an amazing singer, dancer...like Michael Jackson, writer, speaker, musician, or a Top Gun instructor or even better... a Mig pilot. (Yes, like the movie)  I'd drive a vintage blue Ford truck or 2 door black Jeep Wrangler... My long, big, blonde, curly hair would whip around my very tan face...and I was "cool".  The left arm hanging out the window all the while listening to 80's music. I was "Wonder Woman" and had the world in my hands. I was "saving" people from danger right and left. I was knowledgeable and an expert in my field. After all, I was also with the CIA. Everyone knew my name.

 

 

Picture a couple in their early 30's sitting in the back row of a Baptist church. A missionary speaks, encouraging parents to "allow their children to go to the mission field if the Lord calls them".

 

The missionary then says, "Please stand if this is you, if you are willing to send your kids". My Proverb 31 mother is ready to jump out of her seat when dad moves, but he doesn't. He doesn't budge. (By the way, he was an elder at the church).

 

Exiting the church, Mom, with that "what were you thinking" look, asks dad why he would not stand. Dad replies "Why send our children when we are young enough ourselves to take them?"

 

A few years later...we were all in Bolivia.

 

The End. (or not)

 

Dad is 70, and believe it or not...my stunning mom is soon to follow, are still involved in missions and Kingdom work. On the 14th of this month they celebrated their 49th anniversary! My brother and wife has a mission field called Love Transfusion. I have been on staff with Adventures In Missions since January of 2007 and in 2012 started my LLC - Purchase Effect. Don is a youth pastor at a local church...delivers Meals on Wheels and volunteers with the Special Olympics.  The work continues. You are never too young or too old to make a difference. Nothing is too small when it comes to making a difference.

 

Recently Don and I met with two individuals who will have an impact on the world. Emily, a high school gal who is wise beyond her years with a heart of gold and her boyfriend, Jake...who is a go-getter. He should run for office the way he greets all who come within walking distance. He is not ashamed of the gospel. These two are helping us bring awareness to causes we feel strongly about through showing the love of Christ.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And now, I'm still 40. It's only been 4+ months. I haven't been everywhere or done everything, but it's on my list. It's taken me years to get to the point where I love my life. There are dear friends of mine who have a life that often looks appealing. Children, stable job and life, picket fence and rooted in a community. I guess the grass is always greener. Now that I've accepted the unique way He's created each of us - I'm embracing it. There were days in which I'd close my eyes and dream ... Instead, my life, my hair, and talents are all different than that of my dreams...and yet. It is good. His plans are better.

 

This year, I hope to focus more of my energy on learning more about those whose lives are wrapped into the world of trafficking. This will be my third year doing so...and the information keeps coming. Sometimes I feel as if I can't hear another heartbreaking story. But, I want to bring awareness...and empower others to do the same. This year, I will to pour into a group of students from Lanier Hills Church. Love them through the good and bad. Walk along with them...discipling thru my day in and day out actions. I love these kids...they will do great things. I want to build Purchase Effect further - get the name out, increase our giving. I believe in it, as do others, and that makes me happy! And...I want to love, care and pray for my family and friends.