Currently Reading A Different Mirror: A History of Multicultural America By Ronald Takaki see related

I know it's been months since I've posted anything, and I'm sorry for that.  School has kept me extremely busy.  But events of the last few days have pushed me to break my blog silence.

As I was on my way to school yesterday, I thought, "I can't wait for this day to be done."  I wasn't facing anything horrendous that day; I enjoy all of my classes.  I guess I was looking ahead to the weekend - I had to work today; I have a paper due on Tuesday which needs to get finished this weekend; I have my book discussion group on Sunday night.  A full plate of activity. And then I had to stop myself.

I couldn't help but wonder how many of the students at NIU, sitting in that lecture hall listening to a geology lecture were thinking, "I can't wait for this lecture to be over."  And then it was - in a very, very tragic way.  Six students killed, and the gunman taking his own life.

Lives ended - other lives shattered. Those that survived that senseless act of violence have been changed forever.

So I had to stop myself.  Then I got to wondering how much of my life I spend wishing it away.  We all do it at times, especially if we're facing something uncomfortable, painful, frustrating, sorrowful. Or if we are anticipating a wonderful event.  I realized then that I really need to learn to live in the moment.  I know that is a bit of a cliche, but it's true.  The moment right now is the only time we have here on earth that we can be certain we have.  The next moment we could be gone. So even if the moment isn't something pleasant, it is something to celebrate and thank God for.

For those of us that have a real relationship with Jesus Christ, death doesn't scare us.  We know where we will be spending eternity.  But how many of you who check in on this blog can say that you have that same assurance?  I don't normally plainly state what I believe, but maybe now is the time.  For those of you that I know and love, have you talked to God lately?  Have you confessed your sin to your heavenly Father, and asked Jesus Christ to be your personal Lord and Savior?  If not, what's stopping you?  If you aren't sure what I'm talking about, or if you have doubts or questions, please contact me.  You can send me an email off this blog page.  I'll be happy to communicate with you.  Don't let another day pass.  It will change your life.

For those of you who do know Christ, celebrate each moment.  Love completely, give generously, celebrate everything in your life - especially those you love.  God's blessings are bountiful.  Stop and appreciate them. Thank Him for them.