This is It.

Life is so incredible wonderful. It is intense, crazy, meaningful, blissful, and kind. It is heartbreaking, bittersweet, emotional, and beautiful. It is such a powerful thing, and not a moment should ever be taken for granted.

Last week, I was blessed with the opportunity to do mission work in the Dominican Republic. In the midst of midterms, planning for graduation, clinical, and finishing my thesis, I took a step back, traveled 18 hours by bus and plane, and found myself in an entirely new world. What I saw, what I breathed, what I lived in those days- it changed me. It changed my heart and my view of the world.

The funny thing is, there wasn't a moment of adjustment once I arrived. It was natural and easy and felt completely right. I have been home for a little over 48 hours now, and I still don't feel adjusted. My heart is full of happiness and joy, yet I am not completely here yet. It is something I just cannot put a finger on.
In the coming hours, days, weeks, and months, I have a million things on my plate. Assignments and a thesis to finish and present, competencies and exams to study for, graduation and clinical to prepare for, ever-changing relationships with family and friends...it is all a bit crazy and overwhelming. How do I know that I am doing the right things, making the correct decisions, walking the path that the Lord has created for me?

I don't.

But I have faith that I am, that I will, and that where I end up will be where I am supposed to be. I am determined to share the love and joy in my heart, believe in this life, and do everything I can to make a difference.

This past week my heart was reminded that life doesn't stop or wait- this is it, life is now. And I intend to do everything I can to live it to the fullest.