Things I've Learned in 2011

It is crazy how fast a year can go by and how much can change in that one year. For my own benefit and hopefully for anyone that reads this I'm going to try and reflect on what I have learned in this past year...

1. Feelings are not good or bad they are just real
2. It's okay to not be okay
3. It's okay to fail, and there is much to be learned through our failures
4. Living life to the fullest means being in the present moment
5. Living in the present moment is experiencing His presence
6. My wounds go sooooo much deeper than I could ever imagine
7. God is in control and pretty much does what He wants...I don't have to worry
8. I don't have to understand why God is doing what He is doing, I just get to say "yes"
9. God never takes us backwards in our journey, He always gives us "more" and it is always good...that doesn't mean it has to feel good
10. I love to be crafty and it is a gift to others around me... didn't know that about myself
11. I am VERY selfish, but God is changing that...woohoo!!!
12. I'm not cool...never was and that is really okay
13. God's grace and love are seriously important and need to be my foundation
14. Special Education is messy: there are so many threats to its existence and dignity. Even though this is true there are those out there that God has called to be a voice for the voiceless
15. People are beautiful, because God created them and He sees SO much more than we could ever see. Lord give us YOUR eyes.
16. Deal with the junk in your life, otherwise it will permeate everything you do and say and are a part of.
17. Say yes to God even when it hurts, He knows best.
18. I like healthy food
19. I'm allergic to most dairy products
20. I love A Capella singing groups (sing off..what?!)
21. I love detective shows (Psych, Castle...ya know)
22. I like to knit
23. There is so much about myself that I have yet to learn...

As I enter this New Year, I believe that Papa has New Life for me. I believe this will involve letting go of a lot and it's going to be painful, but I know the end will result in joy and freedom. I look forward to that. I also See this next year as a season of learning how to be a teacher, considering I am entering those classes in my education. WOW...kinda crazy that I am already there. I'm learning how to do something that I am passionate about and may do for the rest of my life? That sure sounds like an adult to me.

Well 2011,
I know I will never forget about you. This past year has changed me in ways that I would have never imagined. 2012, I can't believe you are literally hours away, but with that said I look forward to this new beginning.

Happy New Year everyone,
Jamie