The last few days have been very emotional for me. I ran into so many old friends in one day that it was almost a bit too much to take in. Boy do I have so much to be thankful for! Today, June 2nd, celebrates 21 years of life for me. Last night while I was helping my Dad wash the dishes, I asked him what he remembered about the day I was born. He went on to explain every little detail; My Mom was in a very bad mood, he had his friend sneak in food because he couldn’t stand the food the hospital served, my eyes were open as I came out of my Mother’s womb, I was very red, he let the doctor cut the umbilical cord because he was scared he would hurt me, the Doctors placed a little blue beanie on my head, and then before they knew it, my Mom and Dad were taking their first born home. Then he went on to explain how he choose my name. He said that he had read through the story of Joseph in the Bible and that he really liked how Joseph handled himself in every situation. He said that he wanted a son that would be strong enough to maintain a godly character even though people would treat him badly and things wouldn’t always go his way. I find it ironic that he said that, but the last twenty-one years of my life have been everything but perfect! Maybe my Dad was being prophetic and he didn’t even realize it. It was one of the nicest talks we’ve had in a while. I woke up this morning, got ready for the day, and then headed over to my house. I grabbed my brother’s guitar and walked to the bench that sits on the top of the hills right above my house. I wanted to spend some time with the Lord. I played a few worship songs, thanked the Lord for the last twenty years of my life, and then I read through the story of Joseph. It was so refreshing! As I read through the story, I tried to read it through the eyes of my Dad, doing my best to understand why he would name me after this man. I’ve lived a hard life. A lot of people have hurt me and things haven’t always gone the way I hoped they would. Despite all of that, I’ve learned to forgive and I’ve learned how to love. I have so much to be thankful for. I have everything a young man could ask for and I couldn’t be happier. This is only the beginning and I’m so excited for the years to come. Oh yeah! If anyone is wondering if I’m gonna start drinking alcohol, the answer is no. It’s kinda funny how many people have already asked me that.  

Genesis 50:19-20 – - But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.