[ road trip and new journeys ]

I haven't written for awhile, so I find myself entering into blogging again with some hesitation, hoping -- on one hand -- that what I have to say is wise, but knowing on another that the purpose of any bright, creative, or encouraging thought is to bring glory to my Creator.

Last week Katie and I went on a road trip to Tennessee -- such an awesome trip. I love the eastern region of TN, for its Smokeys and too-sweet tea and the way that its Southerners return there and call it home. This area of Tennessee seems to beckon home its family who grew up there with the lure of its fresh air, mild climate, and back porch living. This isn't my home and may never be, but I recognize that this place is special.

Katie's grandparents, especially her grandmother, live for telling stories -- of early beginnings in their marriage, laugh-out-loud anecdotes about their children, and insights about their neighbors filled with rare grace. While her grandmother tells stories, I realize that I want my life to matter like hers has, not withholding love from others, guarding dignity, and holding tight to the special people in my life.

These desires -- of leaving, falling in love, doing what God's doing, and so on -- are deep-rooted and often feel beyond the space and time I'm in now, but I must trust that they are founded in the grace and truth of Christ. I must trust that this new journey will be led by wisdom from Him alone and need to cling to every ounce of that. I want to live out of the freedom of this new journey, to leave and not be afraid -- to share all I have without worrying about what's behind.

I'm beginning to be grateful for what's to come -- growing up, perhaps, but soon being challenged with so much more than I could ever reflect upon now. Depending on Him for everything. Considering all else loss.