Have you ever felt stagnant?
Complacent?
Even as I sit to write this, my mind feels like it's going into hibernation. I just realized over the past few days spent in Tennessee that for some time now, I haven't been experiencing the freedom and simple joys of life that God intended for all of us. I get focused so much on the future and things that I need to (or I think I need to) accomplish, that I forget all that I love about my life in this moment. I have so much to be thankful for and to enjoy about life. So I'm making strides to stop living like a 60 year old man, and have more fun.


I'm thankful for Courtney, who always tries her best to make me feel loved, respected, and of worth. She shows me love in unique, new ways because she knows how much I like change and new places and things, and I'm sure I wear her out because of that!

I'm thankful that I have certain family members and friends that are there for me whenever I need them, and would give me the shirt off their back.

I'm thankful for my job. Starting Full Sail was one of the few times in my life I KNOW that God said, do this, and I obeyed. And it gives me a sense of wonder and amazement that I got a job the day I graduated in the field of work I studied.

I'm thankful for my new house with Courtney. It has given us much needed time alone together and given us a place to unwind and relax.

I'm thankful for my niece, Emily, who makes me laugh every time I see her (or even think about her). She is a physical representation of the innocence and joy that every human being longs for. I can't imagine when it's my child. OMG!


All that said, I'm beginning a new journey. No longer am I going to let my joy be stolen from me.

I read a quote from Quincy Jones this weekend that really stuck with me. He said, "Live every day as if it were your last." I know, you've heard that thousands of times, but the second part is what I like... "And approach every task like it's your first." That's the part that got me. When you start a new project or task, you have passion. You have drive. You start out strong. I want to approach every day as a new task.

I miss my passion
I miss my joy
I'm taking it back