Introduction

I used to love writing. It was seen by teachers as one of my strengths; and, as with most people, I felt I could more adequately express my ideas on paper than orally. So why did I give it up? The last three years have been so transitional and life-changing that communicating with others through writing proved to be as convoluted as my speech. Infrequent journal entries were the extent of my compositions. I shied away from opportunities to write on a corporate blog and express myself through writing music. I knew that creative self-expression at that point in my life would neither increase my self-awareness nor benefit the recipient. As I (mostly impatiently) waited for God to calm the inner storm, He gave me strength as I needed it and understanding as I could ingest it. Resting on the other side of this tumult fills me with gratitude and wonder in the light of His goodness.

And now I know I must speak - for myself and for Him, and for anyone else who may be edified by my confessions. My reluctance to write was not predicated upon an aversion to exposing my own messiness but a fear that my mess would scar others. From those who walked by my side and braved the mess, I learned that the joy birthed through trials is the only lasting kind. This joy is to be spread and not hoarded. To all who have encouraged me through this rough season of discovery, thank you for your patience. You share in the rewards of its fruit.