As I focus on the big picture right now, I am reminded that there is much to be grateful for because I have been blessed. I have visited new places and had new opportunities. I have met amazing people and taught some folks how to see themselves differently. I can only anticipate what is to come, but I know who guides my future and He is faithful.

I am grateful that God listens to me, but still does what He knows is best. He has taken me on adventures where I have learned to do some new things and meet new people. He has insight into me that I seldom see.

This week I am reminded of more things that I am grateful for: family and friends. I have had the chance to share in adventures with both groups. There is always so much laughter with these people, which the Bible teaches us is good medicine.

Many of the things that were accomplished this year were not even on the goal list I planned for 2023. There were some surprises, some disappointments, but over all I can say I am grateful for everything.

I got to complete a bucket list item in 2023. I got to spend the evening standing at the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris with my good friends.

Aside from that, I am grateful that He chooses me. Even on days when I don’t choose me. He chooses me.

I am grateful that Jesus is not like me. He is faithful. This year has been a testament to his faithfulness to me.

Thank you, Lord.

Grateful

Feeling or showing an appreciation of kindess, thankful

For the month of November the most appropriate affirmation for me is grateful. This year I have the most to be grateful for because it has been a learning year. My adventures have taken me down new roads and across different paths.

I love this adventure with God.

This week we studied the Samaritan woman. The thing that stood out for me was her humility.  Jesus told her all the things she did wrong, and she said, yep that was me. She didn’t say, “there are other people in the world worse than me.” Being her authentic self-helped her change the lives of all those around her. I hope my authentic self helps change your life.

Some of the things I do will have negative consequences. My choice is not to live in my head repeating my mistakes over and over again.

I have values and goals which I work at on a regular basis, and hopefully they will speak for themselves. I love African American history and want our stories to be told.

I champion justice for all who are oppressed. I try to value the diverse people who inhabit the planet. I hope to impact the world in a positive way. Encourage faith in God who gives us all purpose. I want my life to be about these things.

Legacy

I believe in Jesus. He is why I am. Although I have concerns about my legacy, the ultimate decider of that is the Son of God.  

My legacy of faith is that I trust God. What I have learned is that even though I make plans, His plans always beat mine because He makes His plans knowing the future. He has always had better plans for me than I have for myself. He has shown me this over and over again.

I love Him because He first loved me. He taught me what love was. He showed me what love was. He is teaching me to love like Him.

He has made me His forever pupil. I never arrive. There is always so much more to learn. I am good with that.

My faith will be trust, love and continuing to learn.