The Blessing of the Curveball
Good morning from Westminster, MD!
Before I begin my post, I would like to recognize all of those who have been affected by the events of September 11th, 2001 and all of those who have willing put themselves in harm’s way to serve and protect us since that fateful day. I, for one, will not forget that day and the impact that it had on so many families and the world as a whole.
This week is a big one for me. On Saturday afternoon, I will be marrying Jennifer Lauver. I am extremely excited for this new beginning in my life and I am looking forward to the adventures that are to come. In writing this I am reminded of the verse in the Bible that says, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” (Proverbs 16:9, NIV) Over the course of my twenties, there were many moments when I thought my life was heading in a certain direction only to drastically change course when I least expect it. If I am honest, those were not the easiest moments in my life, but I am incredibly thankful for them now. Had everything gone the way I expected, I would not find myself where I am today and certainly not spending the rest of my life with the amazing woman I am marrying on Saturday. No matter where someone is on the spectrum of spiritual belief, I think it would be hard to deny that sometimes the curveballs in life end up being a blessing in disguise. I believe that, as the verse in Proverbs says, this is God establishing our steps and for this I am very thankful.
I am also thankful to experience a new part of my journey to Nicaragua. After spending eighteen months on my own in Nicaragua, it will be neat to get to experience it with someone else. I am sure there will be a few more curveballs along the way, but they are always a part of an adventure. I look forward to seeing where they will lead just as the past unexpected turns in my life lead me to this moment. I look forward to writing about all that God will teach me with this new adventure!
– James Belt
In2theRiver 