A Tribute to Jim

As I've sat and thought over the last few days of what exactly I could say, I realized that words will never be adequate. Words will never take away the loss of a husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend. However, I want to honor the man who has invested so much into my life over my last 23 years.

I have known the Majors' family as long as I can remember. I remember Pam and Jim attending my little brother's birthday parties and harassing my mother about being the size of the universe while being pregnant. I remember Jayson toting Alex and I to the zoo or McDonalds or letting me "drive" his truck. I remember the night Jim got saved and how Pam's years of praying had helped bring on a changed man. I remember Jim spending countless hours in our home fixing whatever needed to be taken care of. I remember the orneriness of Jim and his boys, but I also remember how unconditionally Jim loved. I remember him as just being a good man.

I remember the last time I gave Jim a hug and how tightly he squeezed me. I remember how much he loved his grand kids. I remember.

Jim left a legacy, and I for one am quite honored I had the chance to know him as long as I did. I know the loss I feel is only a fraction of the loss the Majors' family feels right now. As the days and weeks plow on, I pray that peace will just overwhelm their hearts and souls.

I am thankful I got to learn from him. I am thankful he is in heaven and will be waiting with great anticipation for when the rest of his family arrives.

So Jim, thanks for being you. It impacted this young life more than you'll ever know.

Reminiscing

Writing has always been extremely therapeutic for me, and this blog has been a wonderful place to work through the many thoughts of this crazy woman.

The past few weeks have been filled with constant nostalgia (including listening to old Backstreet Boys...Lord, help me!) and reminiscing about my Evangel days and the many wonderful friends I have had the opportunity to get to know in the two years since graduation. It has also been filled with thoughts of the upcoming transition barreling my way in roughly 25 days.

Let me just tell ya, it can be a little overwhelming!

I have always said I have the best friends in the whole wide world, and I sincerely believe it. God has richly blessed me in that department, and I am eternally grateful.

For the most part, the friends closest to my particular phase of life live in far off locations. Sometimes, it flat wears on this girl's heart. Don't get me wrong, I have some wonderful people right here at home, and I am so  thankful for that. It's just such a treat to pick up the phone and chat with someone who completely understands right where I am at and exactly how I am feeling.

On top of it, I leave the good 'ol District Office at the end of this month to embark on a whole new chapter known as graduate school. I often ponder my own insanity at my utter excitement and joy about starting school again, but I know it's where God is calling me. However, I also face mixed emotions as I prepare to leave the office that has been a second home for me the past two years. I met one of my dearest friends at that office and have gained so many more wonderful friends through working there. On top of it, I gained about four moms who have not only made sure to harass me but also invested in me and my future. In looking back, I have really seen the impact they made on my life. I won't ever forget that. They have helped make me the person I am today.

I know each season serves its purpose, and I have definitely seen the fruits of the past two years. I have grown, I have changed, I have been strengthened. I know this next season will bring so many more unanticipated times of growth and excitement. I'll graduate the same time as two of my dear friends, and it is exciting to have people on this particular journey with me. (I actually get to graduate WITH one of them! Holla!) And who knows where life will lead me after next June. It's been one exciting ride, and I can't wait to see what is next on this crazy adventure God is taking me on.

So tonight as I sit at this computer, I think back on times spent with some of the best friends in the world. I think back on an office that has truly shaped and prepared me for ministry in ways I never dreamed or imagined. I also look ahead to the next step and the great adventure it is sure to be.

I sure am thankful for a God who walks every road.

"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him." - Psalm 28:7

Thanks for letting me ramble.

Until next time,
Em