Me, Myself and I (#500)

The time for my 500th post has come. I was wondering what I could write about, mulling it over, perhaps stressing more then I should, considering only about four people actually care what I put here.

Then I mentioned it to Andy, and he was full of ideas. Once again, I wonder why he doesn't write...

Perhaps because he would rather do things like this?

Last week he finally had his interview with the Army Officer board. One of the questions they asked him was, "What three words best describe you, and why". He had only a few seconds to come up with his answer, but I approve of what came off the top of his head. I think perhaps it is a good description of who he really is. His answers were:

Integrity, Spirituality, Motivation

Of course, he got to talk a little more about those words, and how they apply to his life. After the interview he was even encouraged by one of the Captains that interviewed him. He said something along the lines of "keeping your faith known (but not pushed on them, obviously) to your men once you become an officer will be appreciated. They will look towards a leader with faith when times get tough."

When Andy asked me what words best describe me, I could only come up with titles. Who I am, not what. (think mommy, Christian, wife) He said those don't count. They are too obvious. I have to go deeper then that. So, I have been on a mission to figure out what three words best describe me, and why.

I have finally decided on:

Joy, Reflection, Edification,

Joy is fairly obvious I guess. I try to shine it, share it, keep it with me all the time.

It is the name of our school, J for Jesus, O for others, Y for yourself = that equals JOY.

I love to laugh, and laughter is contagious. I wouldn't say that I am much of a joker. Actually more of the opposite, but I love to laugh. But even when laughter is hard, when happiness is missing, Joy is always there. When I can't find it by myself, I remember who provides it, and ask Him to pour it out on me. And, I am blessed with people all around me who share my passion for Joy, and when I have lost mine, they help me find it.

Reflection is the fancy word I chose to say that I want to be a shining star, a mirror, a light.

A mirror, which shows as clear a reflection of Jesus as possible. Sometimes, because it is just a mirror and not the real thing, it will be warped, or discolored, or shaky. But still, it reflects.

A star, which reflects light in darkness and burns its own inner fire. I want to shine for Jesus to the entire world. I want to shine in simple things like listening and responding with interest when my hubby rambles on about engines and intakes. I want to shine in larger things like teaching my children the Word of God so they can have a light for every step as they learn. Reflection seems like a huge responsibility.

These boys are a huge responsibility. But oh, they are worth it!

Edification is my gift. I am a listener. An encourager. A problem solver. When someone just needs to vent, I am here. When someone is having a really bad day, and needs someone to find the one positive thing, that is what I was made for. Hopefully, that advice I give actually edifies, or educates and helps solve the problem. Maybe sometimes I am just an encourager. Either way, listening, and then trying to do something about the problem - that is my third word. That is what I hope I am.

Now, here comes the fun part. I've given you a taste of who I am, now it's your turn. All of you lurkers, you who never comment, or rarely have something to say - I would like to hear what three words best describe you. No titles, only descriptors. It can't be who you are, so think deeper. As a side note - those of you who often comment, I would like to hear from you too.

Here's to #1000!