Oh November… you were a lot for me.
This month has been really great. The fellows traveled to Wilmington, Washington DC, and Nicaragua. I don’t have the time to share all I’ve learned over all those miles, but I’ll give a few highlights.
1. I kicked off the month in Wilmington for our church men’s retreat. Honestly, it was probably the best weekend of my fellows career. Joe and I were lucky enough to catch an invite to the beach during some free time. To set the scene: picture me and Joe on Wrightsville Beach, flying kites with four dads. And I’m not talking about just any kind of kite flying—this was *advanced* kite flying, and it was way more fun than I ever could’ve imagined. As I get older, it feels like opportunities to just play get fewer and farther between. So, it was a gift to be present and have fun.
What really stood out to me that day, though, was how much I could see that friendship is a gift—something totally God given. When I first moved to Raleigh, I had a tough time leaving behind my close friends in Georgia. I felt like the deep friendships I had in college were something I’d never find again (dramatic, I know). But watching the men who took us to the beach, sharing laughter, embarrassment, and honesty, reminded me so much of the friendships I had back in school. It was a moment of clarity for me: just because life takes new turns doesn’t mean everything you’ve known is lost. Maybe it’s just changed into something new—something better suited for where you are now.
So, to the dads who made that day so special, thank you. You guys inspire me more than you know.
2. On the work front, life continues to stretch me in new ways, and I’m really grateful for the team around me. They’ve been a huge support, sharing insights and wisdom to help me grow, both personally and professionally. One of my biggest growth moments this month came when I led our morning staff devotion. I had signed up for the day after Election Day—definitely not realizing the heightened emotion that day would carry for people. I’ll admit, I was nervous leading a group of people older than me.
To be honest, I don’t remember much about the devotion itself—my nerves pretty much wiped out my memory of the whole thing. But as I left work that day, I realized I was proud of myself. And I learned to set a new standard for myself: my only expectation is that I try. Sometimes that’s all I can do. But as long as I’m showing up and giving my best, I’m doing okay.
Looking back on all that’s happened this month, I can’t help but feel thankful. There have been moments of growth, deep reflection, and a reminder of the importance of friendship. It’s been a lot, but it’s been good. Here’s to finishing out the year strong, and hopefully more opportunities to learn along the way!
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