Tenho saudades tuas.

   There is little doubt that much of how we were raised - people, experiences, culture, etc. therein - equates to the molding of who we become. At the very least, it serves as heavy influence to who we decide to become. But there seems to be very few circumstances which are so heavy, sobering, and reality-shattering that a single one can rock our worlds and permanently bend our character to move against the grain of everyday life as we would otherwise have lived it.

   Tonight I am remembering one of a couple of my own 'circumstances' and feeling the weight of it. My heart is just aching with what could have been and words left unsaid.

   We must never put off for tomorrow what deserves to be said and accomplished today. Cherish and appreciate those you love as if you wouldn't have them tomorrow, and you will gift your loved ones the love they deserve. We must love with an 'Agape' love: an unconditional, sacrificial and selfless love. Should there be any other kind? If we give anything only to expect something in return, is it simply not just the conduction of business?

"Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." ~ Proverbs 16:24

  The expression of love is the music to our savage beasts. Go hug someone.

Free.

There is something so remarkably liberating about reaching a level of maturity, experience, and clarity that allows oneself to shake off concern for the world's perception of the individual. It feels like a breath of fresh air...or like a great deep inhale/exhale of crisp, fresh air to finally give myself permission to just stop being so concerned about allowing too much of who I am to show to certain people. I always new that I shouldn't worry about what others thought of me, but I could never convince my spirit...always shy by nature. As long as I keep strong persevering in faith and love above all else, there is nothing to be ashamed of. I am a colorful individual, and I'm tired of hiding it. Frankly, I've just gotten bored of this cage.

That's me with the dumb knee braces on :)....I ran a marathon nearly 3 years ago, but never went through photos until now. The only event to top this for showing myself what God's children are truly capable of was muscling through a 42 hour difficult natural labor. We are fearfully and wonderfully made....there is no reason to settle in life; no reason to back down against adversity for adversity's sake; no reason to hide the quirks and interests and talents that make you you.