love[ed]

So it's Valentine's Day. One thing that really bothers me is the countless "please feel sorry for me" or "I hate the world because I don't have a bf/gf" notes/statuses/blogs/etc. It bothers me, because there really are a lot of goods thing to reflect on. I was just reflecting earlier and having a conversation with my friend and we were talking about how we have so many things to make us happy because we are LOVED.

And how true that is for me.

I honestly have the best family in the entire world. Hands down. My brothers are my heroes and they constantly encourage and uplift me and not to mention, crack me up like no one else can. My parents are incredible, and have done an amazing job raising us in the way of the LORD. I love those 4 people with all my heart. Thank you bros, you guys are the best.

Friends. You (if you're reading this, I mean you) have been the hands and feet of Jesus to me. You have met me where I was, whether in a dark time or a time of rejoicing. You've cried with me, laughed with me, been there when I needed someone. You've made me laugh till I cried. You've written me, inspired me, helped me, allowed me to help you. You have loved in word and in deed. You have forgiven me, encouraged me, and sent me Scripture. You've prayed with me and for me. You will never know the gratitude I hold for you. Thank you for loving me! I have been richly blessed! I ask God's favor over each and every one of you!

And most importantly, I serve a God who meets me where I am. Who sees the depths of my heart and loves me the same. I serve a God who met me in my helpless state and shed His own blood for my soul. I have been purchased. I am bought with a price. Rescued. Redeemed. HIS. I serve a God who forgives and forgets. A God who empowers me to be a blessing to other people. The Creator of the Universe loves ME more than I will ever know or be able to comprehend.

And that is what makes today and all days really special for me. Because I am richly blessed and surrounded (whether near or far) with the most incredible people in the world. I am reminded tonight of that, of what the power of love really can do.

So thank you friends and family, you mean the world to me.