A very wise friend gave me some good advice today. She said...

     Don't get too frustrated by not having a plan. "A man makes his plan but the Lord directs his steps (Proverbs). God will put you where he wants you, and you won't miss it. Just serve and glorify him at every moment, wherever he places you and don't worry about where you'll be tomorrow. If you feel like being in school is best for you and your family, be there. But don't worry about when and where the end result is....If you don't make too many plans, you won't get frustrated when they change. And God can change them in an instant.

These are good words that I needed to hear. And this comes from a person that is very much like all the friends that have been close to me throughout my whole life. They are who they are and aren't willing to say something just to please someone else. They speak truth. Truth is best spoken in love and that's what has been done.

So, to anyone else who may read this and be unhappy that God has made them who they are and hate the fact that other people can't handle their bluntness...this was also said to me today.

     Well...that's the only way I know how to be. I'm myself. So my personality is strong and I don't know how to coddle or appease people. I'm not a "tell you what you want to hear" kind of girl. I tell the truth as I see it, even if it's not easy or popular. It's just who God made me to be. Some people like that, and they stay friends with me (or keep seeking my counsel and support). Some don't like it (lots of people just want pity parties) and those people hate me. I've honestly learned not to care. I try to speak the truth in love and I'm a kind person. If people don't like what I say, there are many others out there they can talk to. It just gives me more free time. I know that sounds harsh, but after being so sad about people hating me, I've grown a thick skin. I'm glad you don't hate me :)

This sums of my friendships over the years. I'm very thankful for people like this. They bring out the best in me if I don't fight it. I'm thankful for wise advice and kind love.