Because I am His.

I often wonder where I might be *if* this or that hadn't happened and also like to do the *what if* dance in my head.  However - that's all a waste of energy and emotion.

I am here today for a reason.

And on this day, I have prepared to leave on a journey.  This time, to Alaska - a land unknown to me - to do unknown work.  To just be there and be ready to do whatever is asked of me, whenever it is asked.  I don't know what kind of schedule I will be on and I don't know what I will be eating or even where I'll be sleeping but yet I don't need to.  I am not in charge.  And honestly - that feels pretty wonderful.  I have no worries.  I know my needs will be met.

Now - if one could rewind my life back a few years I would never have been this calm before such an ambiguous journey.  I would have been tense and nervous and CRANKY.  At that time in my life, never would I have given up precious vacation days from work to go with a group of crazy teenagers on a 7 hour flight to a place where it is COLD and RAINY in the middle of July.  I would have stewed and fretted over what tasks I might be given and whether or not I could accomplish them.  I would have been up in arms over the fact that I would be sleeping on an air mattress, not knowing when or if I might get a shower on any given day.  AND I would have lamented over the fact that this was no vacation and I would get no rest - it would be like work for me and why in the world I would have agreed to take such a trip with annoying teenagers.

My, my, my....... how things have changed.

Not only am I more than calm.  I chose this and I'm EXCITED!  I can't wait to get to know these kids better and to see a new spot in our great USA that I might not otherwise ever see.

But you know what's even better?  I get to go and do what God would have me do - and just be available for HIM - for a change!   He's always there when I need Him.  This time I pay it forward...... in His name.

Because I am His.