- I used to think I was a complete introvert. Since living by myself in a state where I know very few people, I have learned that I am not completely introverted. I do have at least a small bit of an extroverted side...sometimes! I just know that I need to be with people because I enjoy getting to know others and spending time with them.
- I need people in my life to keep me accountable, otherwise I would eat donuts every day and watch tv until my brains fell out...and I'm not kidding! I've had to learn to eat healthy, and dedicate at least some time to going to the gym each week. I have watched too many TV series to count (and definitely more than I'd like to admit).
- I am on social media WAY too much! I look through my newsfeeds every day, and think to myself, this is boring, why am I on *insert social media here*? I've already seen this stuff. Yet I continue to look through it. Every. Single. Day.
- I need to be more brave. Because I tend to think of myself as an introvert, it's hard for me to go do things by myself. I always want to have at least one person with me that I know so I don't feel alone. I have changed this some since moving to Arkansas. I've gone to events and out to eat by myself, which I would never have done in the past.
- I am craving growth in my spiritual life. Since getting connected at a church here in Arkansas, I have devoted time to community group, Bible study, Sunday morning church service, Sunday School, and a mentorship program. I want to grow in my walk with the Lord.
- My family and friends are so important to me, and I can't wait for the next time I'll get to see them. I knew that before I left, but I didn't know that I would miss them this much.
These are just a few of the things I've learned about myself since being in Arkansas. I truly believe that God orchestrated these desires to know Him better to come right at this time when I'm trying to figure out who I am, not only as my own individual person, but in Him.
I've had to learn that my value comes from Him alone and not from anyone else's opinion of me (which I have been super aware of because I'm trying to put myself out there and get to know people). I've also learned that I care, way too much. I was telling a friend just the other day, that I care what the person in the car next to me at the stoplight thinks about me (does that lady think my hair looks bad? I just scratched my nose, I hope she doesn't think I was picking it! Oh, that guy probably thinks I'm conceited because I just checked my makeup in my mirror.) I'm not kidding - these thoughts actually go through my mind!
But you know what?! Who cares!? God loves me. He cares about me. He provides for me. He died for me! What else can I ask for!?
God is continually growing me and changing me. He is guiding me along this very direct path that He had planned for me, even before I was born. And He wants me to grow closer to Him.
So, that's exactly what I'm going to do. I am going to keep getting to know my Heavenly Father on a personal level, and I'm going to strive to be more like Him every day!
