-Thankful for my awesome teammates and for their willingness to give me rides (at least while my car is still in the shop). I've really gotten to know one of our student volunteers, Ellie, during our car rides and I am so thankful for her. I think it's really special when you find someone you can laugh with, and I've really bonded with Ellie because we laugh about everything. I'm sad that'll this is her last week with us and that she'll be going back to U of Michigan for school.
-The opportunity to run the Chicago Marathon this year. I have always wanted to run the marathon but always shirked back from biting the bullet and signing up; however, back in June, I found myself stuck on a plane and ended up signing up for this year's marathon with World Vision. At the time, the Lord nudged my heart and said to me, "Grace, this is the year. I'm going to show you new things and you're going to see yourself growing in profound ways." True to word, this summer has been one of huge growth and I'm thankful that training for this marathon has reflected the internal changes that have been happening within.
-Yesterday, I got a call from my mechanic who got around to diagnose my car - basically, my radiator broke down and all the coolant had leaked from my car. He was amazed that nothing dangerous happened while I was driving my car down south to vaccinate a homebound patient. I'm so glad I decided to tow it back to the city - I 100% know that my prayers for physical protection were answered.
-Last week, I was notified by the Nursing Corps Repayment Loan program that I was a finalist for the award and that as long as the Dept. of HSS designee cosigns off on the contract, I will be awarded 60% of my student loans (I have to commit to serving as an RN at a designated CSF for two years). After two years, I can apply for a 3rd year commitment and be awarded an additional 25%. THIS IS HUGE. And another big big answer to prayer. I applied earlier this year in January, and have prayed for many years that the Lord would help with my loans. Last Wednesday, I called my mom to wish her a happy birthday - we got to talking and she said, "Grace, I know you're stressed about your car and repair costs. Don't worry - the Lord is with you and is faithful." Two hours later, I got an email from the Nursing Corps Repayment Loan program saying that there was a status update on my application. I opened it and gasped out loud, and immediately praised the Lord. Again and again, the Lord shows me that he can be trusted, and that he is good.
-I'm thankful for this season of life where I am able to see my own growth. I recently did something that was a bit outside of my comfort zone, and I commend myself for being bold. The outcome was one that gave me clarity and I was reminded that the Lord is protecting my heart and emotions.
-Thankful for Tobe Nwigwe's recent [At the Crib Version] releases. His song 'Try Jesus' is so good and the lyrics... Wow. Can't stop listening.
-Dinner with Greg, Lais, Julian, Rolando, Alicia last Saturday. We made a traditional Korean dish and it was so fun just cooking with friends. And also trying flavored soju for the first time!
In all of these things, I am able to bask in the Lord's good love. I am overwhelmed by his goodness.
