A Milestone

One year ago today, Tyler stepped foot on Parris Island Marine base and began his 13 week boot camp. The night before, we said our goodbye's in Montgomery, Alabama, and I bawled my eyes out until there were no more tears. I picked up my journal this week for a time of remembrance and read on the page dated Sunday night, March 23, 2008, "This is the saddest day of my life by far." On Monday, one year ago today, March 24, 2008, I wrote:

"Tyler called at 8:45 PM tonight. He sounded forced, like he was being pushed or made to speak loud and monotone and without emotion. It was his 10 second call to let us know he made it to Parris Island. (I can't believe this is all really happening.) He was basically reading off a piece of paper what he was allowed to say. There was a lot of noise in the background, sort of like he was in an airport. He spoke firm just giving his name and that he arrived safely, not to send any large items or boxes and that we would hear from him in 7-9 days. That's it! I wrote him tonight. I don't know if he'll get it. I signed it, 'Be strong and courageous.' The rest of that verse I pray over him tonight; 'do not be afraid or terrified of them, for the LORD your God goes with you, He will never leave you nor forsake you.' Deuteronomy 31:6"

And you know what? He never has! I celebrate Him tonight and I celebrate Tyler. I am so proud of him and so thankful for all God has done over this past year in Tyler's life and mine. The strength, courage and endurance has been delivered and received and to God be the glory great things He has done!

May you be encouraged by these thoughts if you are presently walking through something difficult or have had in the past. Remember the goodness of the Lord. Deuteronomy, chapter 8 says over and over "remember...do not forget...remember...do not forget the Lord..." Because remembering is kind of like taking a hot shower, it washes the love of God over you again and invigorates you to go on another day!

"O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago." ~Isaiah 25:1