I have been battling some chronic health issues over the past couple of years. I chose to start with a holistic approach in searching for a remedy. While I have nothing against traditional medicine, I love that holistic doctors usually search for the root cause of an illness. Is it chronic stress? Mold exposure? Too many toxins in our food? Genetic predisposition? As I started exploring the root cause of what was going on in my body, I found myself asking the question, “Why?”

Randy Newman wrote a song used in the movie “Toy Story” that went a little like this: “You've got a friend in me. You've got a friend in me. You've got troubles, I've got 'em too. There isn't anything I wouldn't do for you. We stick together, we can see it through, 'cause you've got a friend in me. Yeah, you've got a friend in me.” I can just read those words and hear the song in my head! It was fun to listen to as a kid and brings back fond memories from the movie that many of us enjoyed. It reminds me of how thankful I am for true, genuine friendships. It’s those friends who keep us encouraged, motivated, and even stable during life’s most difficult circumstances.

Our pastor is in a series on worship, and he talked about the significance of David worshiping God in the desert—when circumstances weren't good. His joy came after his choice to worship in the desert, not before, and his faith was strengthened by looking back and remembering what God had already done. It wasn't receiving a new miracle that built his faith, but rather thanking God for what He had already done. Our church was encouraged at the close of the message to make a list this week, remembering all the times God has been faithful. So on Monday, I decided to do just that, starting from childhood and chronologically working my way to the present. As I did, I stumbled upon a memory.

It’s been almost two weeks since our family loaded up U-Hauls to begin our journey from Mississippi to South Carolina. We have been so excited about this move, knowing God is in it and looking forward to it with anticipation! Still, moving is a very stressful thing to do, and I could feel anxiety creeping in as our move day approached. As I was praying about this, a phrase from Scripture came to mind: “You see me when I travel and when I rest at home.”

"Hello!" from South Carolina! Christy and I have finally moved into our new home in Summerville, South Carolina, after what felt like a whirlwind journey to get here. Travel is not new to me, but this is certainly the biggest move our family has made since Christy and I have been married.