Living my 8 year old self 40 years later

When I was 8 years old I was pretty serious.  It was a tough year with chicken pox and a broken arm. I got tired of trying to make friends and preferred to play by myself. My only consolation was that I had this incredible teacher who made me want to teach second grade and I am happy to announce I have in my 26 years of teaching taught that grade more than any other.

But I was a pretty messed up kid.  I worried a lot and let the opinions of others control me pretty much of my life.  Things improved when I was 18 and gave my heart to Christ but often I was very stressed out.   It wasn't until I discovered my own style when I took up running about 12 years ago.

Instead of dreading hot, wet, and cold weather I began to appreciate it.  I started liking the outdoors and the various seasons. I met lots of people who shared my interests and I also began to take the lessons that I learned running marathons and half marathons and put them in my personal and professional life.  I also found friends for the first time who loved and accepted me as I am. 

Today I ran outside in the rain and it was absolutely amazing with the lighting and the downpour.  Monday I found a off beat track and pretty much got lost for a mile.  Funny how the twists and turns of life help you shape yourself to face adversities later.

Finally I am not worrying about what others think of me so much and I am finally being the 8 year old I was called to be.  Brave bright and ready for the next BIG ADVENTURE!  Isn't great that the Lord has made us all unique and our special talents and interests are from Him?

How great is the love the Father has lavished on you, that you should be called the children of God. 1 Jn. 3:1 NIV