LaRosa Johnson {dot} com

Wow, it doesn’t even feel like I’m 27. On the one hand, I feel much younger, like I’m still in my early 20′s; on the other hand, I feel much older than my age because of the way I’ve been grinding of late. Either way, I’m tremendously blessed to have reached this point in my life and I must say that I’m pleased with where I am.

When I turned 18, I really didn’t have a clue of where I’d be ten years from that point. I figured that I would have graduated college with a degree in computer science, be working for some company like Microsoft, maybe be married, possibly have a kid or two, own my own home, and so on. Well, it’s nine years since then and I can’t help but look back and reflect. College? I didn’t finish, but I don’t feel the least bit concerned about it, and don’t have the desire to finish at this point (for what? put myself in more debt to make a few more dollars, maybe?!). Even without the computer science degree, I’m working for a software company, and a Christian one at that, which I find to be totally cool. Seriously, after only two years on the job, I’ve become the head of my department; I never saw that coming. I’m married to a gorgeous wife, who’s a believer, and I have three lovely children. I have the family that only God could’ve given me, that’s for sure. The house? Well, I owned a house for two years before moving to Texas, where we’re renting a brand new (bigger) home, so no complaints there. As far as goals go, I’d say that I met, if not exceeded, all of my expectations.

Furthermore, my two birthdays in Texas have been particularly interesting. Last year it was on a Sunday and I spent the entire day in church (morning service, Greek in the afternoon, and then evening services), and I didn’t have any problem with that at all. I was happy to squeeze in lunch with Robin & the kids after service & before the next. This year was much the same way. I had a full day of work (didn’t leave the office until 6:30) and then went from the office right to my Greek class & Hebrew study hall. I didn’t get home until a few minutes before 10pm. Again, I was content with meeting Robin & the kids for lunch (at Red Robin) as a means of celebrating my birthday. Sure, I wished I had taken the day off of work (but had a project due, so I couldn’t), but I wouldn’t have been anywhere else that night. What better way to spend my birthday than being about my Father’s business? The past two birthdays have definitely shown a shift in my priorities and what I find to be important.

I’m looking forward to another year of the Lord’s blessings, both through success and trials. The one thing I do know, I’m in for a lot more growth & stretching, and I’m ready for it. It feels good to be 27 & in the Lord!