Returning to Indiana has been a unique reflection on life in so many ways. I have had the privilege of sharing many meals with many family and friends, but I fear not many enough. I did not have enough time to renew all of the acquaintances that I wanted.

I have heard many encouraging stories, and have been blessed many times over by the opportunity to share with many of you. One story in particular has caught my ear and heart.

A "Crazy" friend of ours (actually Lauren's) arrived back at school with something new. Something she picked up this summer. Something indelible. Something to constantly remind her of the experience she had this summer.

While Lauren spent the summer in extreme corners of Africa, her friend, who missed her dearly parked herself in front of her computer screen one day. Her thoughts were of her friend whom she missed dearly. She pulled up this sight and began at the beginning, and proceeded to read a years worth of material (I cannot imagine how long that actually took) in that sitting.

The Lord began to move in her heart as she read. She was already familiar with the content, because she had read along the journey. However, this was a new reading which resulted in a new experience for her. God stirred her heart to stop living as she had been. He moved in her to begin to seize every opportunity and make the best of the experiences He opened up to her.

She made a commitment to herself and to the Lord that she would not take life for granted. To mark her decision she made another. (While I don't personally condone this next one or want anyone else to go and do likewise, I want to report what she did).

As a reminder to herself to live her life to the fullest for the Lord, she had "Carpe Diem" ("Sieze the day") imprinted on her wrist where she could always see it.

I encourage this change of heart, and Praise the Lord that He chose to use this site to bring about this kind of encouragement in her life. I trust it will last and not just be a temporary mind flex.

When the Lord brings about change in our lives, He provides the strength to keep us moving toward Him if we keep our gaze upward, and not on a flat plateau.

dad