Thankful

I got the best quote from a friend today: It always takes a step of faith to get to the Promised Land. Always. And if you wait until you're unafraid, you'll never cross. Go for your Promised Land, friend. Let nothing hold you back. Put your feet into that water and feel the dry ground of God's goodness. You can do this with Him-one step at a time. "With God all things are possible." ~Holley Gerth~

I have so much to be thankful for as I embark on this midlife journey to Emory.

1.  Parents who raised me in the faith and planted those seeds. I've often said I exited the womb singing Hymns.
2.  Siblings who put up with me "baptizing" them in the bath-tub.
3.  Sunday School teachers who committed their lives to teaching.
4.  An Uncle who taught me the social gospel and who has been my number one mentor and cheerleader all in one among so many other things. Stan has also agreed to jump in and take care of David until I can find respite in Haywood County.
5.  Nancy Sehested who recognized in me a gift she trusted enough to allow me to preach my first sermon from her pulpit.
6.  Children's church teachers who tolerated my "mini hell-fire and brimstone sermons."
7.  School friends who allowed me to "witness to them" and quote "Here's hope" to them.
8. Rob Fuquay who encouraged me to go to lay speaking training.
9. The pastors who trusted me to call me to fill in for them once I received the training
10.  Al Ward who encouraged me to not take the "easy" way out but to consider finding a way to go back to seminary.
11. Chuck Wilson who had the courage to encourage me.
12. Alan Mears who gave me opportunities to minister alongside of him.
13.  Caroline Merrell whose smile and words always lifted me up.
14.  Ken Carter who suggested I consider Emory, a dream that I didn't believe was attainable and told me how it was attainable.
15. The friendship class who always honors their name in being some of the best friends I've ever had.
16. A friend who trusted me enough to call on me regarding her spiritual life which sparked off a set of events that have me where I am today.
17. Dana Trull who is brave enough to say yes to taking care of David the week of orientation.
18.  My cousin Jessica and her husband Donald who are making room for me in their home.
19.  A couple from my new church who are going to provide short term care for David on Thursday evenings until I get home from Atlanta.
20. Amy Spivey for mentoring me and encouraging me and supporting me.
21. Rennie Salata for welcoming me into his congregation with open arms.
22. The biggest Thanks of all in human form goes to my room-mate and my son who have had very little say in this decision and are probably scared to death with all the changes that are resulting in their lives for the next 3 years.
23. Finally the grandest of them all go to my great, awesome, magnificent GOD! Who woke me up from my sleep and told me to get to work!