31K.

She's been running a race - a good one I might add.
Not the kind of race that all you tennis shoe wearing types have been training so hard for lately - but a race nonetheless.

Her race started 31 years ago today.
In her 31 years, she has been growing and learning and practicing for what is to come.
She has fallen (literally and figuratively), pulled muscles, and taken wrong turns - just like the rest of us.

But she has never stopped training - at every turn, looking for her place, her fit, her calling.

She is a light wherever she goes, a laugh to whomever she meets, a bright spot on this planet for sure. Her race, and her commitment to it, somehow encourages the rest of us to keep running, and to run well.

A person committed to excellence and purity of heart. A person dedicated to becoming THE person God wants her to be.

I am convinced that during the course of my own race, I will be impressed by the valiance of others. But I am not likely to encounter one who will leave such an indelible mark as my friend, my mentor, my sister.

I am blessed to know you and love you - as it is impossible to achieve the former without also giving in to the latter.

You are truly an inspiration.

On your birthday, be inspired and know that I love you more than any sister has ever been loved.

Happy 31 and (K)ounting...