Another year has come and gone. This time last year, I was turning 57 and still working, with no real plans to retire. In March the plan to retire began to formulate. There was a huge battle in my head and heart as to which way to go with my heart winning in May. Ironically, my last working day was the 34th anniversary of my being hired as a full-time, permanent employee. Since June, I have been busy around my house; first decluttering (amazing how much stuff accumulates), then painting and replacing flooring.
During the summer, I drove my parents to Syracuse, NY for them to join their church's annual construction ministry group. We stayed there for a couple of days. I got to meet some really great people with huge hearts who go places and spend their vacations building a church for a group who needs one. We left Syracuse and headed for the Amish country of Pennsylvania. There I got to see a traditional Amish farm, look at some quilts and see some Amish folks riding in the buggy pulled by a horse. I admire the Amish for their simple life, but it definitely isn't for me; I like electricity and the comforts that a car brings.
The latter part of the year brought sad tidings of the death of my Dad's last living brother; a very unexpected heart attack for my Mom; the death of my Dad's best friend. Good news was the announcement that another baby is on the way in the family.
Through all the changes and difficulties, God has been there with His very presence and comfort. I find myself singing songs to Him pretty regularly; pondering some mystery of His goodness and grace.
As I venture into age 58, I have to wonder what this year will bring. For sure more political junk as we near another presidential election - God's choice will win (Romans is clear that no one is over government unless God puts them there). I would like to have a very uneventful year as it concerns the people in my life and their health/well being, a season of rest from the weariness; a year when Clemson won't look as bad in the next football season as they did in the Orange Bowl the other night; a turn in the economy so my friends and family can find a job and begin to recover; a time when those who seek God, find Him; a time when there is hope and a constant reminder that the plan God has for us all is good (Jeremiah).
So 58, here I come; 57 I leave you behind to be part of the my 20/20 hindsight as I continue to move forward.
