As my daily devotion time, I'm going to write, instead of read someone else's, daily miracles. My hope is, that by doing this, I will enrich my journey and awareness of God in the little things in my life and also encourage others to do the same. I encourage you to share your comments and stories of things that you encounter along your journey.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Anniversary

Today is a very special day!  So, I want to share how I've seen God working not just today but for 7 years.  Today is the 7th anniversary of sobriety for my cousin!  We grew up far from each other, but that didn't keep us from being close!  We share a common love for a special place full of memories and happiness.  And, we also share another thing.  We both had some trouble growing up.  Mine was different than hers as far as drinking.  But, we both had our times when we kept our parents up at night.  I was ending mine when she was mid-way through.  So, as time went on, we grew closer as we shared common circumstances.  I wish for nobody to have problems, but as I always say, it's not what you go through, it's what you do afterwards that is important.  And, what she has done is awesome!
A few years ago, she visited me during the summer with her 2 boys.  She was here a night I had youth group so I asked her to come share her story with my teens.  In only a short time, she made an impact that has lasted.  If I mention her today, my youth still remember the things she shared that day.  She is a blessing to all in the ways that she sets an example to others and in the ways she shares her past to help others struggling.  Since that time, she has been working hard and recently graduated with a degree in magazine journalism!  I'm not sure how anyone can raise 2 young boys, go to school, and run a household by herself, but she did!
Growing up, I always went to church.  My cousin didn't.  But through her struggle and climb back, her journey has led her to a spiritual understanding.  When I'm stressed or wondering about things, she always reminds me of God's plan.  I love hearing that from her and seeing how God has worked in her life! 
“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:26-28 NIV
Blessings,
Jennifer
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2 comments:

  1. KrystinJanuary 13, 2012 at 10:55 AM

    I know your cousin and can attest to the fact that she inspires MANY ! I did not know her in her dark days of drinking, but still even today, 7 years away from that hell, she continues to teach me and others about the value of our struggles and the power of God to not only carry us through these times, but to use us as beacons of His Grace. Thank you for honoring her and her willingness to allow Him to work through her. God Bless ~ Krystin

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  2. jenniferJanuary 15, 2012 at 9:48 PM

    Just saw your comment- you said it beautifully. :)

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