If you are open to gifts, God always has little surprises along the journey of life. Getting back to the studio quickly would be nice, but sometimes a two-hour delay in South Bend is better.

Mark, Matt, and myself camped out in the hotel last night. It had been a powerful afternoon at NDVision, and we needed the rest. After a few hours in warm bed, I had to pretend I wanted to get up move to the other side of the country. I am in the airport, and my flight is canceled. I have to endure two hours in a cold airport that is five minutes from my warm bed.

I called Dad to see how he’s doing. He was at the office getting ready for the teachers and students and another school year. The lunchroom and classrooms are all empty. It’s just Dad at the school, typing away from behind the principal’s desk with a cup of breakfast coffee.

We caught up on my travels, his golf game, and my brothers and sisters. Dad says he and Peter are going to build a par three out of the backyard. I don’t even remember having much of a lawn, so we’ll see how the manicured green looks. Tyler is growing up so fast and brings so much joy to Nana and Papa. Dad insists that Tyler’s first words were “Pa-pa.” Brian and Katie’s baby is due before Thanksgiving. They’ll have the whole family over for Thanksgiving and I’ll get to see their first house, and baby.

Dad and I laughed about how he used to work my tail off around the farm. “It builds character and responsibility.” I miss them and they miss me. It’s difficult for me to be out in Arizona with all of my family in Georgia. I know that Mom and Dad made a lot of sacrifices to raise our family right. I honor them by living out a life worthy of their sacrifice.

I know exactly what I am a part of with Life Teen, and I hope Mom and Dad understand too. I know they will be proud of me regardless of what career I have, but I hope they understand my call.

Our church back home has been struggling. The priest is a good man, but the cultural differences have been difficult for everyone. Mom and Dad don’t complain or speak poorly of anyone, but I know it’s been a tough few years for them. Sundays aren’t what they used to be, and that makes the rest of the week more difficult. My brothers don’t feel welcome anymore.

“That’s why I am proud of you, because more teens will be able to embrace their faith and not lose it.” Dad understands my call.

I work too much. I travel too much. I am still tired. But I feel better.

God knows exactly what I needed to hear.