Things I Have Learned in 2021

For the last few years, I have written a post about the things I have learned the previous year. I thought I would add another entry to the list.

Last year I made mistakes in some situations and I walked in wisdom in others. I hope I learned from both. Last year I learned that people are more hungry for Jesus than ever before and it’s okay to share Him on the street corner and in line at the grocery store. Last year I learned not to take life or people for granted no matter the age. Last year I learned people need to hear, “I love you,” every single time they hear my voice because many never hear it at all. Last year I learned things can change instantly and sometimes the things you are praying for do not get answered in the way you imagined.

Last year I learned to rest when Bill tells me to rest. I learned he and I need to go on more adventures. I was reminded how much I absolutely am in love with this man who is all mine. I learned I do not have to have every thing perfect all the time. I learned I still blush when I am embarrassed.

Last year I learned how much I love Facetime and how much I love being called Gramma. I learned how to buy things for little boys. I learned being a grandparent is so much fun. I learned that living rooms can be cleaned and floors can be mopped. I learned a car car is a valuable commodity to a two year old. I learned we need to all be more like children.

Last year I learned reconciliation is a beautiful thing. I was reminded of a Japanese technique started five centuries ago for repairing shattered ceramics called, “kintsugi.” It repairs ceramics better than before. Artisans use lacquer and gold pigment to create beautiful gold seams. When God heals relationships the seams from the break may still be visible but the beauty of the finished product is even more beautiful.

Last year I learned that I never know when the last time will be. We moved in April and had I known it was the last Christmas in our house I would have kept the tree up a little longer and spent a little more time enjoying the season. We lost several friends who the year before we spent time laughing with, talking to, and loving. That is the point, I never know when the last of something will be. I remember my mom telling me years ago there will be the last time you can pick up your child. There will be the last time you will kiss the boo-boo. There will be the last time you will be the first person your child calls for when they are hurt or scared. She didn’t tell me that time goes so fast and then you have a grandchild who has already passed some of the lasts.

Last year I learned you are never to old to learn as Bill and I started a New Testament Survey class and we are seeing so much more than ever before. We are exploring the history, the writers, and the significance of different events in the New Testament in a much deeper level than we ever have. Just today I learned what a slice and a hook are in golf. I never want to lose the wonder that the LORD has given us for learning.

Last year I learned to trust people again. I trust God more, but I can let people get to know me and be open with them on a deeper level. I learned I need to be intentional with people and friendships because that is a skill most are losing. I learned you can meet someone in a baptism line who becomes a mighty prayer partner. I learned that some friendships are stronger than ever because we have gone through the muck and mire with each other. I learned that God has put sister-friends in my life I did not know I needed. I learned that hugs are still wanted and needed by people. I learned people want to be seen.

Last year I learned more of my identity in Jesus Christ. I learned it is okay to share my testimony because it may be the key to unlocking someone else’s prison. I learned I need to protect the promises God has given me. I learned I am a warrior. I learned I can never give up and I can never look back behind me.

Last year I learned that unless I mirror the love of Jesus with every single person I am a clanging cymbal. Last year I learned the phrase, “Where was Jesus in that conversation, action, thought, etc.?” Lastly, I learned I do not have to make sure every one is okay and control the Universe because God has it handled.

Happy New Year!