Well, I guess I'm not so good with keeping up a blog regularly. The last month has been full of change! With all the change, though, it has made me reflect again on who I used to be and how far I have come. A month ago, I wrote about What I wouldn't tell the girl I was at 21. You can read it about it here. If given the chance, there are plenty of things I would tell her though:
1. Travel as much as you can
It's
so cliche but go see the world! You really will only be young once. When
you get the chance to fly for free for a year, take it! Don't just use
it to travel back and forth to Lubbock, TX twice a month. Also, don't let anyone make you feel guilty for that
trip to England! You'll make more memories in 5 days overseas that 5 months in the states. If you want to read about that amazing trip from the eyes of one of my best friends (who happens to be a pretty awesome blogger) you can do so here.
2. When you get the opportunity to fall in love, take it!
This
follows my previous post about not warning my future self about
impending heartbreak. No one should feel shame or regret about falling
madly in love with someone. It's beautiful, even when it ends ugly. 21
year old Lauren, kiss that boy on the cheek in the Jack in the Box
parking lot. 22 year old Lauren will be glad you did even if it means heartbreak at 23.
3. Chase God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind
Few
things are more detrimental to the kingdom of God than a lukewarm
Christian. Don't be that way! Live your life according to Romans 1:16 and
be unashamed of your faith. Go to church and actually listen. Take notes. Open your
Bible more than just on Sundays. Learn the value of discipleship, quiet
time, prayer, and fasting. Let God lead you. Resist worldly
temptations. Strive to live according to Proverbs 31. A closer
relationship with your Father is the number one thing you should be
striving towards at all times. (This will be a lifelong battle)
4. Pick your little brothers up while you still can
Soon,
they will be bigger than you. Take advantage of them still being
willing to cuddle. In no time they will spend all their time in their rooms or with their girlfriends and think you are just the dumb older sister. It's true what they say,
kids really do grow up too fast. Also, listen
to that loud whisper you heard during Easter service to ask Preston if
he wants to get baptized with you. It will be one of the best days of
your life!
