Where I'M From

I am from climbing trees, from digging for maggots in my backyard and building a playground for my brother’s turtles. I am from frozen Stouffer’s Mac n Cheese and homemade ziti. I am from field trips to the fire station, from family camping trips and “My Little Teapot.” I am from “Puff the Magic Dragon”, from “Stinky Face” books and memorizing “Brave Martha.” I am from worship songs and weekly Sunday school, from Jonah in the Whale and Noah’s Ark. I am from a piano teaching mom and a brother who picked up every instrument. I am from a cat we fed Cocoa Puffs and soy milk, from a dog we adopted from the shelter because I had no friends. I am from trips to my grandma’s house as we passed “big dogs” that mooed. I am from putting up the Christmas tree after Thanksgiving and Dollar Tree Secret Santa. I am from burning eucalyptus candles, from sticky notes and Bible verses I tape to my wall. I am from “stubborn and spoiled,” from “You’re too loud!” and “Hard to love.” but truly, I am from “Fearfully and wonderfully made.” I am from desire, a desire to encourage and uplift, a desire to love others like I want to be loved, and a desire for growth. But most proudly, I am from God my Creator, from my Father in Heaven to whom I say, “Hallowed by thy name.” He has given me a purpose, a purpose to be on mission for Him, to pour my heart out in leading worship, to disciple those younger than me, to teach children, but most importantly, to love those around me.