The year was 1999, and I was partying it up before the new millennium arrived and the world ended, computers crashed and chaos ensued....or whatever such things we were all convinced would happen!
Partying is a term I'm using quite loosely here though, because instead of dancing on tables and lifting drinks into the air in the throes of youthful rebellion, I was at the mall buying conservative skirt and shirt combos, sensible dressy walking shoes, and toiletries galore. I was packing bags, tying up loose ends, and preparing to make a mark on the world....... in my own little way!
I was going to be a missionary, and my party was a going away party.
For a year and a half I would be gone. Gone from home and family. Gone from television, music, shopping and hanging with friends. In the absence of familiarity I would come to know the real purpose of life, the essence of our day to day existence, the greatest source of earthly joy.
Love and service.
Love of God, through service to his children. This, my friends, is the sure route to real happiness.
And so, on October 31st 1999 I spoke my farewell to a congregation of fellow believers. The faces of my most loved and cherished beamed up at me in acceptance of my meager offering to the world. While the rest of the world celebrated with costumes and candy, we celebrated with family and friends.
I've decided that the real trick to growing up or gracefully maturing, is simply treating yourself to things that will give you the greatest experience!
Don't be scared of what YOU have to offer the world! No matter how small it feels....Let it shine!
What a cool day to give your farewell! That's amazing :)
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