My daughter’s always been kind of DIFFERENT from other kids her age. She’s only 15 years old, yet she’s quite comfortable at a dinner table full of adults.

She can participate in the conversation because she’s quick and witty, with humor beyond her years.

(I guess she’s just spent so much of her life hanging out with us at work and church.)

Occasionally, we’ll overhear her spouting off some deep wisdom to a group of adults that makes David and I stop and look at each other with wonder.

Where did THAT come from?

One time, she invited over one of her friends. When her friend left, Ashtyn said, “Mom, I’m not sure I can do that a lot. She wants to do things that are boring for me!”

What? Being a kid is BORING?

One of the things I admire most about Ashtyn is, she knows what she likes. She’s different! She’s unique! And that’s OKAY!

It’s funny how, even as grownups, we struggle with feeling as if we don’t FIT. Like square pegs being forced into round holes.

God created us just the way we’re supposed to be: tall, short, thin, curvy, dark, light, outgoing, and shy.

There’s a plan behind it all… a grand DESIGN!

You’re one-of-a-kind, an ORIGINAL, created with specific talents and gifts. You have a voice that will reach an intended group of people with the love of Christ.

Embrace the qualities that make you DIFFERENT!

Because, without you THE WAY YOU ARE, God’s plan wouldn’t be complete!

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Continue reading on page 89 of “Hi God, It’s Me Again” and fill in pages 85-88 of the “Journal & Study Guide”.