In a recent discussion with my sis, we delved into the differences between us-- primarily the introvert vs. extrovert difference. That inherent difference colors our views of most every situation and choice. I had no idea until that discussion how very differently we can view the very same thing. In fact, despite how it may appear to others, I really don't feel like an extrovert. I find small talk really challenging, I need alone time to recharge, time among large groups of people is exhausting. But I guess the difference is that I don't prioritize my alone time above interaction, I go to the event and socialize knowing I will be exhausted after. I guess I am a hybrid intro/extrovert. It takes a toll though. My drive to be doing "something" all of the time is difficult for some of my loved ones to understand. I am always creating something, starting a business, volunteering, supporting a cause-- it may seem a little crazy to you. I don't know what drives this, but I know God made me this way-- and for a purpose. I don't complicate life on purpose, it just comes naturally. If you have someone in your life like me-- a weird into/extrovert hybrid-- love them, and support them. Gently speak your boundaries so they don't drag you unwillingly into their adventures. Remember that they are just as driven by their nature as you are by yours, so be patient.
I am helping to prepare a baby shower for a young woman at our church. She is young, just 22. Thinking about her, and what the future may hold for her and her little family, got me to thinking about life at 22. Much has changed for me since I was 22. That was really a difficult time. I didn't realize at the time that it was difficult. I had graduated from college, was having a post college, pre-real life, super good time. I was bar tending, partying, picking up and traveling to far away places to party some more. I didn't really have much in the way of financial responsibility yet, and my parents were living in Egypt-- leaving me in charge of the house and my younger sister. It was an "out all night, sleep all day", kind of life. To be honest, I was setting a pretty poor example for my sister, who at the time was working full-time at a nursing home, and was far more responsible than I was. Looking back at that time, and even later, till about age 25, it make...

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