I think one of the things I like the most about this season of life are the memories. Looking back at all of life's challenges and circumstances, and the decisions we made, that got us where we are today.
I am sure you have heard the story of Goldilocks and The Three Bears. Well there is the story that Jean tells about "My Three Husbands". The story pretty much sums up my life. She starts out with "The first one was too big. The second one was too small". Then with a little laugh she goes on to say, "But this one is just right".
After high school I stopped playing sports but I kept eating...a lot. You can see below, as a 27-year-old businessman I had blond hair and weighed 305 lbs. And at that time I was called Dad.
At 39 I was diagnosed with cancer. Did the whole thing with chemo, radiation, stomach surgery, and living w/feeding tubes. I dropped to 160 lbs. My hair turned black. I was called to serve the Lord. At that time I was still called Dad, but also began to be called Pastor.
Now I am 68 years old and 178 lbs. My hair is white. The doctors say my weight is just right. I am retired. Still enjoy business dealings. Still love serving Jesus. Still called Dad and Pastor, but now I am also called Papaw.
Isn't it amazing how our Lord takes us through difficult circumstances and different stages of life in order to shape us into the person He created us to be so that we get to live the life He knew we always wanted!. "For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11.
For me, and I am thinking you too, the memories of how the Lord got us through the difficult situations, and even the bad decisions we made, just makes me more excited about the next life He is shaping us for.
Still Blessed and living out my Last Best Bite. Looking forward to being called "Friend".
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