until we meet again

It was chilly when I stepped out this morning for my daily run, but even more telling was the fact that, though it was after 6 a.m., the sun had barely even pinkened the horizon. I was sad to see Autumn Equinox announced on the calendars on Friday. I like fall, but I love summertime. Summer just never lasts long enough.

Every year I try to deny the coming of fall as long as I can. Every year, I can't deny it anymore when school begins. Since I'm going to the community college this year, mine started today. Reality has struck.

But, unfailingly, once I admit that it's time for fall, I can embrace it and enjoy it along with the other seasons. I'm dreaming of home football games... of performing Twelfth Night with the drama club in November... of making chocolate cheesecake for Thanksgiving... of snowy mornings... of Christmas celebrations. I'm having nightmares (just kidding!) of turning eighteen in January. I'm wondering what the next year--what life--will bring.

Until we meet again, summertime. Try not to be so late next time!

anastasia | 2012

This was so. much. fun!!!

rejoice

 

Our youth intern said something this week that has stuck with me. Happiness and joy aren’t the same thing. Simple, but I never really thought about it before.

What’s the difference? Well, joy is assurance in the power and love of the Lord no matter what comes our way. We can be joyful and still feel sad. Happiness, on the other hand, is all emotion: it is dependent on circumstance, and we generally can’t feel happy and sad at the same time.

What amazing assurance we have—and what amazing joy comes with it!