Taking Time...

Being a stay at home wife has brought several new opportunities over the past several months.  I continue to seek the Lord for His direction for our future.  It's been great to volunteer at events, meet new people, get involved in programs and projects and find new ways to reach out with the time I've never had before. 

It's also a time of learning once again to wait for the Lord.  That was the anthem and theme of my single years... "Wait for the Lord. Be strong, take heart and wait for the Lord. (Ps. 27:14)"  Little did I know that waiting for the Lord doesn't end when you get married.  And it can take on so many different meanings... should I pursue a new career? should I continue my education? etc., etc. 

One of the unexpected blessings of this time in my life has been the opportunity to read more.  I love biographies and autobiographies.  I have found myself so engrossed in the stories that I have a hard time putting each book down without finishing it.  I've literally went through more books in the past few weeks than I did all of last year.  And what a JOY it's been!

Two of the stories that have really been interesting and encouraging to me in different dimensions are...

1.) Decision Points by George W. Bush

It took me a little longer to get through this book, but it was worth it.  I was most amazed by his determination and focus to protect the U.S. citizens from another attack following 9/11 until the end of his presidency.  Also, it was amazing to hear of his compassion and all that he did for the world in fighting AIDS and all that we didn't know that happened by the U.S. Government in preparation and following Katrina. 

We saw President Bush speak last year at the Life Centers event.  And he was relaxed.  It felt like you were talking with a friend in your living room.  I've read somewhere the difficulty of being the most powerful person in the world and how it can effect one's character.  However, President GWBush seemed very willing to accept his new role with poise and dignity and was very open about his faith.

2.) Choosing to SEE by Mary Beth Chapman

She was so honest in this book.  The stories she shared about her marriage and how God continues to change her heart were inspirational.  The stories of their adopting three Chinese girls and losing one in an accident were amazing and  heart wrenching. 

Mary shares how she knew what she wanted in life, and it was all very ordered and predicable.  and then came God.  From her experiences, she's had a heart to help others in the process of adopting overseas children.  And once her daughter passed away, she's overseen a project of building a home for children with special needs.  God's love continues to pour out of her and her family's lives even in the midst of their pain.