Life Chapters

I'm not sure about you, but when I read a book, one thing that keeps my attention is short chapters. Seriously though, pick up a book and try reading a chapter that is 42 pages long. I do my best to steer clear. For me, I just get lost. My mind wanders. Other tasks, life issues and personal matter start to overwhelm my small little space of concentration. Honestly speaking, I have a hard time focusing in on what is right at hand unless I can focus on a small piece for an extra amount of time.

Now pick up a book and zoom in on a 15-page chapter. Oh yea...I'm processing now!

So, is it a bit embarrassing? Perhaps. But I'll just break looooong chapters into smaller ones and call it a night. No worries here. There are plenty of things I wish I did better.

So what's my point? Well, this morning I was thinking of the crossover and similarities to life. Over the past 7-8 years, it's as though my life has happened in shorter chapters. Very recently, I spent my last full day on Young Life staff in Pleasanton, California, celebrating a joyous and life-changing adventure. Filled with ups and downs, I would not trade it for the world. I have personally been stretched more than ever in my life. God has showed me what it means to be a faithful follower in a far away land. Such a rewarding and special time. However, it continues to be a challenging transition in my life. I now find myself having to put distance in the relationships and personal life stories I have been intertwined with over the past two years. My mindset on the move has been, "it's not goodbye...it's I'll see you later." All in all, I really hope to live that motto out.

As I thumb thru the recent chapter of my life, I realize that my life is changing once again. Just over two years have gone by since crossing the Arizona border to enter the Golden State. Now, that chapter has come to a close...for now. But what does that look like? Well, let's just say the word "aloha" will be used far more than ever before.