Celebrate the decisions and the consequences.

Over the years I've made some decisions that have been costly physically, emotionally, financially and spiritually. I have taken paths that have resulted in heartache for me and for those who love me. As I was telling a friend just this week, "my life now is not the life I pictured as a child or adult." Yet, here I am at 61 (pushing 62) with this life created by decisions I've made, decisions others have made involving me, and the consequences of those decisions.

I suppose I could dwell on the losses in my life and most certainly I could list many of them. I could look back and choose to be stuck in the mire of regrets. However; what I have decided to do is recognize that I have paid a price (sometimes a hefty one) for some detours during this life journey. But, as I look back now, even during the detours God has helped me wade through the muck and find tremendous blessings and rewards.

It is the season of Easter and I find myself thinking about His indwelling in my heart and spirit and how that has become more real to me with each detour I have taken. With each decision and costly consequence, I have leaned more and more on Him. On His word, His promises, His people and His quiet nudgings to my spirit. It has taken me years to understand that He doesn't desire that we get caught up in the "things" that success in life can provide. What he asks is that we be faithful in our service to Him and others. When the times have been hardest for me, my faith has not only sustained me but it has become a quieter, deeper, more personal and intimate relationship with the Father. And slowly but surely, my life has become less chaotic and much more peaceful.

Being the daughter of the King is pretty awesome so when I honestly think about what is important and what is not, many things now fall in the "not" category. With that in mind, I have elected to celebrate the decisions I've made, accept the consequences of those decisions (both good and not so good) because with each experience my desire to become a better person and a more dedicated servant has increased.

So, as I celebrate this Easter I give thanks for the one who truly can and does change hearts and minds for the better. He changed my heart almost 30 years ago sitting in an office on a college campus. And through the good and the really bad times, He has never failed me and I rejoice in the knowledge that He never will.

Blessings and Happy Easter!