What a Difference a Year Makes

Every door holds untold opportunity and untold challenges.
Door in Colima Mexico (Copyright 2008 by Marcy Berg)

A year ago my life turned upside down and inside out. It happens. Life, it happens. We are not always prepared for things that come our way. Sometimes our choices have unintended consequences. But, as I think about all that has happened in the last three hundred and sixty-five days, I am awed at what God can do.

Several years ago I worked with a man who is an advocate for minorities: people with disabilities, children in foster care, adults with mental illness, racial and ethnic minorities. He refers to himself as a "community organizer" and he is. I learned many things working with him, but one thing that he told those who worked with him repeatedly has stuck with me "There must first be disorganization."

Over the past days, weeks and months my life has been disorganized and reorganized. During the darkest days, I clung to scripture:

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

~ Philippians 4:13

If God is for us, who can be against us?

~ Romans 8:31(b)

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

These verses carried me through the dark days until I could begin healing. Healing came slowly. But God provided what I needed on my journey. I was surrounded by a caring and compassionate church that prayerfully supported me. I was encircled by a group of strong women who nurtured my spirit. And I was blessed with the gift of an "adopted" mother, father and sister. 

Each day I grow stronger. I am thankful for those who wept with me, prayed for me and those who loved me.

For all of you who were here, thank you.

May mercy, peace and love be multiplied to you.

~ Jude 2