A letter to myself8725http://amarkedchange.com/2010/07/29/a-letter-to-myself/A+letter+to+myself2010-07-29+20%3A26%3A00Wes+Howard

I was going through some files on my computer and I stumbled upon one called, “Journal.”  I thought it was strange since I don’t keep a formal journal, so I clicked on it.  It was a letter that I wrote to myself almost a year ago when I was going through a rough time. I barely remember writing it, but reading it broke me.  What an amazing reminder of what can happen when you are committed to letting God write your story.

Dear Wes,

I wanted to write you this letter to remind you of some things.  I don’t know where you are in life or what challenges and surprises have come your way, but I do know how you got there.  You got there because of this experience.  First, I want you to do something for me.  If you are married, go tell your wife how much you love her.  Go right now.  If you have kids, go kiss each one of them.  Go right now.

Remember that all this started because of that day in the cabin.  You told God that you would go wherever he would lead and you meant it.  He did as well.  That day began the deepest valley you have ever experienced and has brought me to write you this letter right now.

Remember what you learned.

You learned how to manage money God’s way.  That most of what you thought were your needs, were really just your “wants.”  You learned about giving and just how important it is.

You learned patience.  There were several times when you went after an open door and made your plans for your future only to have God close that door and keep you waiting.

You learned what love looked like.  Never once did your parents say, “Wes, I am disappointed in you. How did you let this happen?”  They instead said, “Wes, God is with you.  And so are we.” You remember that your mom sacrificed her day several times and drove to Nashville to bring you homemade food and a kiss of encouragement.  Go call her right now and tell her you love her.

You learned what loving others meant.  You fell in love with the kids at the homeless shelter.  You were inspired and heartbroken as you watched a 16 year old wake up every morning at 4:30 to catch the city bus at 5:20 in order to get to school on time.  Remember what they taught you.  Remember how you saw God’s image in each other faces.

You learned to be humble.  Accepting someone’s monetary gift or their offer to buy dinner or coffee didn’t make you weak.  It showed just how blessed you are.  It’s just as important to be able to accept the blessing than it is to give the blessing.  Those blessings will be returned.

Most importantly, you spent time alone with God.  Remember running during the day where you experienced God’s glory through nature and conversation.  Remember what you read.  Remember accepting God’s invitation to be still.  Remember the earnest and heartfelt prayers you lifted up every day.  Remember to be fearless.

Love,
Wes

I believe that was the most important time of my life.  It prepared me and molded me for what was next.  If you have found yourself in the same place, I urge you to hold on dearly to this time of your life and never forget the lessons that are being taught and find a way to never forget.

I hope I randomly find that letter every year from here on out.  I need that reminder.