the big 2-3

Tomorrow I am twenty-three years old. My twenty second year was a time of huge growth and change. I lived in 5 different residences within one year, for example - State Street, North Myrtle, my parents' house, 3rd avenue, and now St. Paul. I worked in a video store, at a McDonald's in the deep South, directed a play, and student taught. I went on an adventure to North Myrtle Beach and I'll never forget a day of that summer. I began teaching at Lakeville one week after student teaching ended - whew! God knew I would deal with the adjustment of the real world much better with less time on my hands to think. That's how he operates with me, it seems. He throws me right in - and shows me how to trust him. Trial by fire.

My twenty second year brought change, challenges, seasons of being pushed and stretched. If I could sum it up thematically, it would be, "God throws Jill into a million different situations and shows her the only stable thing in this world is the Lord." My twenty third year brings me the chance to take root. I've got a job and an apartment (and a wonderful roommate, I might add). The trick now will be to take the initiative to keep growing and learning.

I'll never forget a Christmas card from my Grandma Morreim a couple of years ago. She wrote, "Just think, this year brings a whole new world of possibilities to my youngest granddaughter!"

It's just as true today as it was then.

Bring it on, 23. Let's see what you've got.