As I noted in the previous post — we’re moving! And we have a destination: Memphis TN (*cue Elvis playlist*).
I’ll be honest – what I was hoping when I wrote that last post was that the next one would be full of answers and exclamation points. Yes, our sweet school in California closed, but look at what we’re going to get to do now…!!!
Don’t get me wrong, there are some fabulous explanation points about Memphis. First, I’ll be near my grandmother for the first time in years. She’s 92 and fabulous, and I’ve wanted to live close to her since I was five. We’ll be much closer to my girls, who attend college in Georgia. We’ll be closer to family and friends in Florida. Also, Dave and I both love jazz and the blues…Beale Street has that in abundance.
But Dave doesn’t, as yet, have a full time job. We’re moving from our big beautiful house into a smaller second story apartment. We found a great school for Thomas but, as of right now, neither of us will be teaching there (I’ve been “in school” with Thomas since he started!). We’re most likely not putting roots down in Memphis, but just living there a year.
But God…He reminded me of the verse, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path” (Ps. 119:105). And the image of a light there isn’t a massive spotlight, but more like a small candle. We can’t see everything that’s ahead. We just focus on what’s directly in front of us. As we move forward, we see more. But we don’t see the whole picture.
This is where God has us. I’ll be honest – I want the “big picture”! But I’ve walked with God long enough to know I can trust Him, even in the dark. Because He is the light.
Eventually, we’ll know why God had us move to Memphis, and ultimately, we’ll know all the answers (just maybe not in this lifetime!). For now, I need to be obedient to walk in the path God has placed me on. One step at a time. God is good. I know this. His ways are so much higher than mine. So even though this feels like a valley and not a mountaintop, still I will praise him. And I will cling to His words to light my way.
So glad you are there and settling in. I was thinking of our next impact group and God brought you to mind. Praying for you and the fam. He will see you through. Blessings and God speed.
Thanks so much, Toni! <3
It was great to travel with you via your Instagram story. Thanks for the update on your arrival and settling in. I’m looking forward to your next update, as I’m sure you are! (Exclamation point)
I know that wherever God puts you, you will make it a home.
You will be missed. It was a blessing to work with you these past several years. And it was an honor to sub for the great Mrs. McGee.
<3
Happy trails that found you back in the Southeast! We miss and love you all!
Ruth