Hey, y’all, and happy Monday! Week 8 is upon us, and the summer is officially winding down. Taylor and I have only one county visit this week before we head to unload day in Johnson City, Tennessee, to see the staff return all their supplies and ASP vehicles. Afterward, we will head back to the porch to wrap up the summer.
The past ten weeks flew by like a whirlwind, and I am left already feeling reminiscent before the summer has even ended. Because of this, I want to write an encouragement to us all about living in the present moment and not taking a single day for granted. Before that, though, I’d like to give a quick recap of my weekend.
I spent the end of last week and the weekend in Greenbrier County, WV. I really enjoyed the longer stay, as it helped me gain a deeper insight into the inner workings of ASP Summer Staff. I went on runs with all four staffers on Friday and helped Center Director Bridget with dump before they began their cleaning party. Saturday, we all grabbed lunch together with another staffer who has been liaising there for the past week. I drove my personal vehicle up there for the weekend, so Saturday evening, we took the top and doors off my Jeep and rode to dinner together, where we ate with a couple of homeowners. Afterwards, we headed to their house to move a giant flowerpot (which was an interesting experience to say the least). The ride back to the center, although chilly, was filled with good music and laughter. Last night after everyone was back from their daily tasks, we all piled into one of the center’s common areas. There, we watched a Disney movie as the staffers finished signing the family Bibles for their homeowners.
Though this weekend flew by, I have so much appreciation for it because I was present in every moment. I wasn’t distracted by worrying about what went wrong earlier in the week, nor was I stressed about the upcoming week. I got to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and slow down for the weekend. It was so nice to get to know the staffers better and make more ASP summer memories.
Psalm 118:24 says, “This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Remember this verse today, tomorrow, and each day after. Slow down. Breathe in. Breathe out. Be present. Soak it all in, as these moments and memories are fleeting. Time doesn’t stop for anyone. It keeps going, and if we’re not careful, we will miss out on the beauty of the present moment and season we are in.
I aspire to be intentional in treasuring each day for the gift it is. Every day is full of possibilities. I aspire to live my life as it comes, always thankful for the journey along the way.
This summer is almost over. I encourage you to slow down. Live in the present moment. Take each day as it comes. Don’t hold onto the past, and don’t dread the future. Live in the here and now. This is what matters.
Talk soon!
Sarah Brassfield
Story Gathering Intern
