Eighteen Blessings

"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; 

the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace."

Numbers 6:24-26

I've been physically alive for eighteen years on this day. Eighteen. Just to think, two digits makes such a big impact in society. For some people, it was a gradual process to become eighteen and mature into adulthood. And others it's a wake up call to throw away childish beliefs and become a stern, (wo)man. I'd like to call these last eighteen years a process, because it was for me. But, no matter what I will always be a child a heart, and so many other people will be too. It's a wonderful sensation to celebrate birthdays and all, yet a dreadful thought. We keep building upwards, never knowing when we will reach the end of our blueprints.

While I could go on to talk about the dreadful part of growing up and ticking clocks, I'd rather focus on the brighter side of being eighteen: the blessings. It was nice taking the time to reflect on the things I know I should be thankful for, and what I often take for granted.

1. Having a house supplied with the things I need

2. Getting the spiritual wake-up call I needed

3. Attending a church that values fellowship

4. The people I've met (good and bad)

5. My gifts: creativity and artistry

6. My family

7. Being me—along with every "imperfection"

8. A vivid imagination

9. Being able to afford my first year of college without loans

10. Clam chowder. No questions asked...

11. The small, hidden beauties in nature

12. Different cultures, races, and individuals in the world

13. Growing up in a Christian household

14. The advancements in the world doing more benefit than harm

15. The ability to be able to communicate with people

16. My stuffed animals

17. Becoming more of a leader and independent

18. To have a Father who watches over me everyday, and every second