Running the Race

I have postponed updating my blog for the past few weeks, thinking that my schedule would free up and I would experience this wonderful moment of reflection.  Well, my reflective moments are few right now, so I am going to make one happen and share my recent learning.


I am half way through my doctoral classes and find myself in the busiest time so far.  Not sure how to explain it other than - it's like you acknowledge you are halfway through, but you can't quite see the finish line.  You know, running that race and saying to yourself - "don't slow down, it's just around the corner". You're tired and have given a lot of energy so far, and yet you have to push through in order to accomplish the goal.  That's where I am - running the race, but not yet seeing the end.

There are so many amazing things on in this race worth noting:

• Amazing self-awareness and learning that I never would have experienced without the doctoral program.
• The stretching of myself that comes with the required balancing act between family, work, school, and friends.
• The gift of new friendships who challenge, support, and stretch you in new ways you never thought possible.
• The amazing support and love from my family to be the best I can be.
• The true reliance on the Lord to embrace the journey and be reminded that He is leading the way.

Today I was reflecting on my five year vision collage and each part of the picture.  I still embrace each piece of the framed picture and believe this is where I am to be.  Already there are pieces of this collage that are coming to fruition - it is almost overwhelming to think of how God's hand has moved.

Tonight as I write this, I am amazed at God's grace, in awe of His faithfulness, and encouraged by the hope that only comes from Him.