SEEMS like YESTERDAY (ThanksGiving Truth 2011)

I’m not actually sure where this month has gone, wow!  Thanksgiving 2009 seems like it was just yesterday.  It was my last Thanksgiving as a free man for at least the next 5 years.  And I can recall wishing that the time would slow down, as January 7, 2010, my sentencing day, was quickly approaching. If we fast-forward to now, Thanksgiving 2011, you would think I would be wishing for this time to speed up, but against all odds, I’m not. This may sound strange as you read these thoughts from where you are, knowing from where I’m writing, but life has taken on a whole new meaning for me.  It’s no longer about living aimlessly, although prior to my accident, I would have thought I was right on track and living life to the fulllest. But how wrong I was!A large piece of me died on March 7, 2009, the night of my accident, and the remaining piece was crucified at my sentencing day with one hug.  I can’t quite explain this peace I now feel, but I can humbly admit that this time does not bother me.  I have purpose now, and though I will continue to miss the mark and come up short, I’m striving and shooting for the Son, and even if I miss, I will still be in the light.Living with purpose has made my confinement nothing short of an assignment.  Like a college course, the prerequisite to being profitable is by investing into something of value.  And I’m not talking about monetary worth, but “a conduct that must be worthy of the gospel of Christ.” (Philippians 1:27).

Shame on me if I don’t sharpen every part of my life during this time. No longer will I live for selfish reasons, as this school of incarceration is teaching me appreciation for all things.  I am beyond thankful today, and I am beyond humbled to go further.  Time passes no matter what we do in life, but I refuse to not ‘get with it’ this time.  No more wishing it would slow down or speed up, just a “Be Still” mindset that reminds me to look up!Happy Thanksgiving, Everyone!