My life, like most lives, has been filled with ups and downs. Sometimes it seems like when things are going right and all is well, the other shoe drops and one is spun into chaos. But through it all I can say like Paul that I have learned to be content. I am in a good place right now, but it always hasn't been so. The interesting thing is that the tragedies have been balanced with triumphs.
And I am truly blessed.
I am blessed with a 'reasonable portion of health and strength.' Years ago I didn't know what that meant, but now I do.
I am blessed with a wonderful family, my daughter and grandson. We are not perfect but at the end of the day we love each other and are there for each other. But my family is not just by blood, it includes the wonderful people that have touched my life over the years. Some I have known for almost 50 years,and some for only a few months. I am still close to some of them, others have been there for a reason and a season in my life, then we both moved on.
I am blessed with two church families, Fifth Baptist Church and Raleigh International Church. Both churches are led by amazing men of God, and the members have seen and stood by me at my best and at my worst.
I am blessed to have been of service in the field of education. Over the years I have taught in public, private, correctional, seminary, and of course church settings. I didn't just disseminate information, I can truly say that in each setting I was both teacher and student.
I have been blessed to have traveled to about 27 states, Ghana, Ethiopia, and the Dominican Republic. I know that may not sound like much to some but on a teachers' salary, with some serious health issues, that's not too bad. Travel has been a passion for me as I explore this wonderfully created world with my family and family of friends.
In less than 24 hours I will be 63 years old, Now I know that I probably won't make it another 63 years, But I am excited about what will happen in the next 30 to 40 years. Optimistic? You bet!