This has been a big month for me in that I had my one-year anniversary of working for Newby Management. I’m happy to say that it has been a privilege working with such great people. The owners, fellow employees, and residents alike have all been a real blessing to me. The Newby family made up of the Management Company and its communities has been a community of people of which I am honored to belong.
Another reason July is a big month for me is that my family will celebrate my granddaughter’s 2nd birthday. Man does that little girl have me wrapped around her little finger! There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for her. Oh, I can see already that she and I will be partners in crime. If she wants anything, her “Papa” will get it for her. If she wants to do something she can count on her “Papa” to make it happen. People had told me before she was born, “Just wait till you have grandkids!” They were right. I don’t know what it is, but she is a blast!
Anniversary’s and birthdays are milestones. Occasions we remember and celebrate. It’s important to remember and celebrate because it reminds us what’s important as we glance back and look forward.
What are you remembering this summer? What can you celebrate as you remember? It helps you appreciate the people and experiences of the past and anticipate future blessings.
My mind goes to Joshua in the Old Testament, who after leading the Israelites across the Jordan River, wanted to build a monument to remember God’s faithfulness and provision for His people. After escaping slavery in Egypt (the Exodus) the Red Sea stood in their way to freedom but God miraculously parted the Sea, giving them safe passage to the other side, away from the Egyptians. Years passed and when they were ready to enter the Promised Land the Jordan River stood in their way. Similarly, God stopped the flow of the River so they could pass once again to get to their destination. Joshua didn’t want the Israelites to forget what God had done for them so he had a monument built using rocks from the Jordan to remind them and any future generations of what God did for them.
I encourage you to reflect, remember, and celebrate the blessings of your life. It may surprise you how much God has done for you throughout your life – Celebrate!
Peace,
Corporate Chaplain
Mike Bynum
chaplain@newbymanagement.com
941-297-9467