Growing up I was never really allowed to sleep in. Whether it was school, in the morning, a sports practice or a church event, I was always up early. I used to hate it. Kids would talk about how on the weekends they could sleep in until 2:00 and then hangout for a few hours and then go back to bed. I would always try and force myself to stay in bed and close my eyes as hard as I could just to see if I could get more sleep but it was almost always useless. My eyes were open and they were open for good. As the years went on and I was in high school starting school every day at 7:20 and waking up at 6 am, I LONGED for the ability to sleep in and the opportunity for a free Saturday. Every week was school, for five days, then a track meet and church. It was like my life on repeat and I could not catch a break, or so it seemed.

As an adult, I now realize how lucky I was to have to wake up earlier than most. I got to see the sunrise which if that doesn't make you see the beauty of God than I don't know what does. I got to wake up and make myself coffee and snuggle up on the couch to watch television or read a book. It wasn't hard for me to get myself out of bed because I was used to doing it so many times before. The life that seemed to be on repeat was simply training my body and mind for better things. Now in college having 8 a.m.s every day makes the morning seem less enjoyable from the outside, but there is more in store beneath the surface. Most days I set my alarm for even earlier than I need to be up to give myself extra time. The longer I am awake before class, the less tired I am. It gives me time to focus on the Lord and to focus on getting myself in the right mindset for the day. Whether school has been hard or boys have been trouble, I feel as though I can conquer the day. And all it took was a little early morning TLC.

Each we I find myself using the excuse "I didn't have time for it." And in all honestly, I did HAVE the time I just didn't MAKE the time. That is all that life is about. Making the time for the things that matter most. Being intentional with our relationships and our actions to better ourselves and those around us. I never use this excuse on things that are easy, only on the things I know will be harder. Whether it be a homework assignment or some quiet time with the Lord, I can always find an excuse as to why not when I need to start finding a reason WHY NOW. That is why I choose to wake up every day, brew myself some coffee and put a smile on my face. I have decided to make the most of each moment I am given and use this moment to make the next one better.

"This is the day the Lord has made;
We will rejoice and be glad in it."

Psalm 118:24