David and I married at the close of 1988, I’d never imagined married-life for myself. I wasn’t even thinking along those lines. Until… a year prior at a friend’s wedding, it all seemed so lovely and romantic. Hmmm. I asked God what He thought and then I prayed telling Him, “If this is something You have for me, You’ll have to orchestrate it. It’s such a huge life decision I could really screw up. I’ll marry whoever You choose, but You have to be obvious and make it clear.”
Three months went by with words of encouragement from complete strangers. Their messages were prophetic. It was crazy to hear from them that God had listened to my prayer. Then, just like that, I met His pick and we were quickly engaged – married 6 months later. I was now on a new trajectory: from touring and dancing non-stop to wondering what to do with myself.
Teaching ballet covered the next 5 years until it seemed time to have children. When baby #1 came I still managed time for some choreography and rehearsals. Baby #2 cut that out. Then 3, 4 and 5 joined as David started his own business and I got busy homeschooling. The kids were my world morning to bedtime. We were both busy, happy and tired.
I often thought of the endless hours I’d spent at ballet. All that painful repetition of perfecting steps. I drew on the discipline I’d learned, realizing God knew way back then that I would need it in my future. I tapped into the patience I developed from years of teaching- to homeschool and care for our growing crowd. It was the hardest and most rewarding job I’d ever attempted.
Later, 5 children turned into 6 when we took a teenager into our family. Our crew was now complete… for a while. I see that God is into growing and stretching the gifts and talents He gives. He doesn’t mess around. His plans are bigger. His ways are crazy better. He wastes nothing and uses everything offered to Him. So, I have no regrets in giving Him all that I am.
How can I offer less, when the rewards have been so great!
ForGlorySake! -Anna
