Things I Love

Recently I was going through an old journal and found this entry from 2006. Titled "Things I Love," I found that little had changed in the last four years. I'm going to give you the updated, 2010 version but for the most part will be word for word from four years ago.

I love watching seasons change, mountains covered in snow, flowers wherever they may be. I love waterfalls, the ocean, rivers and lakes. I love hiking and taking in the beauty God created. I love horses--their power and strength, their loyalty. I love their smell and the way they give everything to please you.

 I love being in shape and honoring God with my body. I love the smell of the earth when in rains and the way the sky looks just before a huge thunderstorm. I love things that are beautiful and things that are peaceful. I love snow and the cleanliness it brings. I love to be active and do things outside. I love being by myself and I love interacting with others.

 I love watching a child's eyes light up when they learn how to read, or watch the rapture on their small faces when I read the story of God's love. I love their enthusiasm for life and innocent joy. I love coaching and mentoring high school girls. I love being a part of a team--united and working toward a common goal. I love discipline and the rewards that come from working hard and the feeling you have after you've given everything you had for something you believe in. I love motivation and enthusiasm--but I love peacefulness and calm.

 I love my family. The way they stand for me, behind me and beside me. Always cheering form me, praying for me, picking me up and even correcting me. I love my friends for encouraging me and believing in me and challenging me. I love my husband. The way he is always there for me, supporting me and being my best friend. I love that we are partners and that we have respect and admiration for each other. Most of all, I love that we love God together and desire His will above our own. I love adventure and things that are a rush. In the same way, I love being safe, having security. I love to have purpose and to be needed. I love God. I love His faithfulness, His never-ending pursuit of my heart. I love His sacrifice and the way He never fails; the way He promises to always be with me, to lead me in paths of righteousness. I love the lessons He teaches me and the passion He has for sinners like me. I love that Jesus loves me and I don't have to do a thing to earn or deserve that love. He just freely loves me.

I live because I love. Without heart, this life of mine would be pointless.