There are a lot of people out there who have done a lot more than me. They've been more places. They've accomplished more with their lives (just look at Malala Yousafzai, but don't ask me to pronounce her name). And they've had an overall bigger impact on those around them than I have.

I meet these people or read about them in the news and I feel like I shouldn't eat carbs, I should run 5 times a day, I should never EVER check Facebook because it takes up too much time. And I should have 3 books published and a record deal. And it drives me nuts.

And then I meet the opposite. I meet people who don't necessarily want to accomplish anything in their lives. They are content to sit and watch TV, or play video games, or eat a large pizza by themselves (which is actually a great feat in itself). And I feel like I'm 10 feet tall.

And I really don't believe either of these viewpoints is correct.

^That's some pretty sound advice. You can't even begin to compare yourself to those around you because you'll either never be satisfied, or you'll be complacent. Neither of which will make for a satisfactory life.

I'm in the process of learning how to be happy with the progress I've made in my life so far, but to not stop where I am. I can't compare my experiences to those of individuals (*cough* my dad) who are 20-something years older than me, that's just not realistic. But at the same time I need to remember to keep striving to move towards the final goal; having a satisfied Father when I stand at the pearly gates.

As I sit here in Michigan, enjoying a week away with my parents and reflecting on the life I've lived thus far, I need to remember that life was meant to be lived. Not looked upon with jealousy, foolishness, or a pompous attitude. Be where you are. Be who you are. And use the gifts that God has given you, but use them in a wise and timely manner.

You and I are both where we're supposed to be. We are not here by accident. We are in the position we are in because we can learn from it, grow from it, and somehow be used in it and through it.

Possibly? Keep that in mind.