What is, will not always be.

Sometimes I get to wondering, you know? Wondering why I am where I am in this life. I haven't hit a lot of the milestones others around me seem to have, and it hasn't been for lack of trying. How is it that most of the time I'm fairly content, despite still struggling to attain some of my most cherished goals? Do I possess an unprecedented amount of optimism, a gift for ignoring what I don't like, or the ability to be patient in persistence? Maybe a combination of all of these is the case...

One of my favorite truths is this: What is, will not always be. It gives me courage, hope, and faith. I have seen the evidence of this truth in my life, and I know I can count on it.

Change can be beautiful and reaffirming. Just since my teen years: I didn't stay eternally 13, thankallthatisholy! ;) My family didn't live in the same house all that time. I haven't continuously wanted the same occupation. (For that matter, I haven't even been going to the same school the whole time.) My baby brother grew up.

And beyond that, to examples that are less superficial: My family has become my number one source of joy. I have learned so much more of my own value. I know that God is real, now, and cares for me as an individual. I know that He cares for each of us as individuals. I trust the people around me more easily. I have calmed down and learned how to take stock of and honor what I need, rather than simply caving in to the desires of those around me. I know that I have many unique gifts to offer. I've learned that kindness is often being bold in honesty, rather than parroting meaningless words. I am confident that life will continue to teach me and help me to grow.

That's a lot of change, and good change, at that. So even though, yes, I have yet to graduate from college, and find my mate, and develop greater charity, and bear children, and own a home, and, and, and... One day, I will either have accomplished these goals, or have found and met ones that mean more to me.

What is, will not always be. The future is as bright as my faith.

That's a lot of potential brightness, people.