Hard to believe we're already one fourth of the way through 2024. What a wonderful quarter it's been. So many great memories that we have shared with you all. I am forever grateful for the values I learned growing up. Nowadays we are handed things on a silver platter and we complain every time the least amount of effort is required. We want to take but aren't willing to give. The sacrifices and efforts of previous generations are what have allowed us to have it so easy and comfortable. I don't want to forget what it took to get us here. I feel blessed and grateful to be able to have the luxury of enjoying the outdoors and exercising. This was my view when I left the farm this morning.
I had a wonderful time in the word over coffee and then had a workout at the gym.
Then it was back to the trails -- again!
I run because I love it and because of the way it makes me feel. The weather is changing from winter to spring and I am finding myself wanting to be outside more than ever. I even rewaxed my surfboard today in hopes that there will be a swell at Virginia Beach soon. I can always hope, right?!!
I am thankful and try not to take things for granted or think that I'm entitled to anything. I thank God for everything I have and own (it's his -- I'm only the steward) and for giving me a family that loves and supports me. Humbled, and yes, thankful! We must remember these two words because if we don't we'll become a deserted island in the middle of the ocean, alone and lonely. I always remind myself that although I am aging I am still active. I can move and see my grandkids grow and feel what my body is capable of even at the age of 71. Life really does get better with age, and I think we start seeing how the little, small things have so much more value than the large accomplishments. In a sense, staying grateful is easy because there are SOOOOOOOOOOOOO many blessings and things to be thankful for in life. Our Lord did not come to make our lives barren and narrow but rich and full. It's not the life the world has but a new life, even himself, and plenty of it. Yes, our times are in the hands of the Timeless One, the Great I AM, and we cheat ourselves when we ask for molehills when he has offered mountains.
Don't let aging cause you to settle for less than his best. Why shouldn't the warrior's last victory be his greatest?