Hi — it's been a while, hasn't it?
I'm currently still in Chicago, still in the Navy, still learning and growing. I've been distant from God, but I know he's still there; His arms are always carrying and keeping me safe. He's with me when I feel the loneliest. He's my home even when I am away from home. When I don't understand, I seek Him. I seek Him in moments of silence, on train rides through the city, in the sight of an old married couple who seem to have stories to share — when they wear coordinated outfits and speak softly to each other. I seek Him in groups of friends sharing laughter and anecdotes, in the laughter and cries of babies with their mothers, and in the smiles, sadness, and grief of passersby as they travel through life. I'm reminded God is there when the sun rises, making a beautiful ensemble with the clouds, trees, and birds. I see Him when my shipmates talk about their weekends or upcoming labs and exams. God was and is there for all of it.
What I mean is, I've been distant — I haven't opened my Bible or gone to church — but I'm surrounded by His love so abundantly that I'm okay taking the days a little slower, especially with the people I've met here who have introduced me to new hobbies, interests, and experiences. If I'm given the chance to speak a little more freely…
I'm far from a perfect human and will never be one; I would consider myself a walking contradiction at times. I start projects and sometimes leave them unfinished. I start conversations and get distracted midway because something caught my eye. With that being said, I've had a few accomplishments lately: I completed ATT and FC"A" school. I became leadership in my barracks as a yeoman (in other words, an RA — taking care of paperwork and making sure service members are where they need to be), and I couldn't do it without my fellow coworkers. I'm finally a rated sailor — hooyah!
I went home for Christmas and New Year's — seeing my family felt indescribable. I was beyond grateful to see them and my best friends back home. I saw Yesi — oh, how I missed her. She's truly my sister; words can't describe how fortunate I am to have her in my life. I spent New Year's with her family. Our best friends spent it with us; it was surreal to see us all heading into different chapters of our lives. I'm so lucky to have met those girls — God knew I needed them.
I also went with a friend from base; his name is Green. I'm lucky to have met someone who lived so close to me. We took the plane back home together and then back to Chicago. Our friendship blossomed from there. We spent more time together to get to know one another more deeply, and we're still getting to know each other. He's currently based in California and I'll be visiting him soon. He's made it feel like home away from home, and God blessed me with a gentle, kind-hearted man when He knew I needed to learn patience and be reminded that life is meant to be enjoyed and appreciated.
He helped me get through my reading block and introduced me to Fourth Wing, which brings me to books. That was my last finished read. Fourth Wing takes place in a fantasy world with a leading character named Violet (aka Violence), who is on a mission to protect her land even when it means keeping secrets and going against everything she knows and believes. She goes through trials and tribulations that build her into the woman she will become. She bonds with her dragons and struggles with the tug and pull of the male lead. I'm currently reading the second book in the series, which is really good as well, and I'm almost done with it. For anyone who likes fantasy, heartache, dragons, and gallantry, this is the book for you — with a little extra spice.
Do you remember when I mentioned skates? I finally bought them. I'm waiting for the weather to get nicer up here in the north, and once it does, y'all will be seeing me skate.
With that being said, look outside your window a little longer, appreciate yourself and the journey God has placed you on, and if you feel far from Him recognize He is in all the moments we take for granted. Take a moment to pause and take in what's around you.
I love you, but God loves you more.
As always, here are some pictures:
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