2011 Resolution: A Review . . . of sorts

January of 2011 I declared my words for the new year, "Be Not Afraid". With several major family events scheduled I was already feeling anxious.  As a child of God I know I should "be not afraid" so I made it my New Year's resolution to seek the peace in those words.   How did I do? 

Our only child, L., graduates from High School in the spring and leaves for college in the fall.  Spring term is grueling as he works to finish up Senior projects and pass tests earning his International Baccalaureate, as well as his high school, diploma.  Graduation day was exciting with family traveling in to celebrate.

Summer begins, the economy tanks, unemployment jumps and education funds disappear as the state scrambles to fund a system in distress.  Scholarship and loan money we thought would be available are frozen and announced as unlikely to reappear.  Completing my M.Ed. in 2005 was part of our plan toward paying for L.'s college.  I begin to search for full-time positions in earnest.  We sharpen our pencil, tighten our belts and apply for multiple scholarships.  L. puts in as many hours as his job will allow.

Money begins flowing to the university with down payments, fees and reservations.  Unexpected scholarships come in and we meet all the required obligations.  September we pack up and move L. into his dorm.  Tuition is paid, books are bought, housing is charged.  The first year is covered.

Fall, another school year and empty nest feelings settle in.  Lots of job applications, two interviews, no job offer.  My part time job is stable, my office mates are supportive and encouraging.  My husband and I see a marked reduction in the grocery bill, gas consumption and utilities.


How did I do, not being afraid, in 2011?  At each shift that would turn my insides with anxiety I would kneel at my bedside, offer it up to the LORD, ask forgiveness for my weakness and declare, with His help, I would not be afraid.   

2012 brings many of the same issues but I have known peace through 2011.   We have been steadfast; working, adjusting and tightening our finances and keeping God at the center of our lives.  We have met all our obligations and I am not afraid, that we will meet all that are yet to come.

John 14:27 (NIV) "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
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