Dearest Rebecca,
Rediscovering your letter from June 20, 1998, brought a wave of memories and reflections. 
Your honesty about the struggles you faced—the yearning for your family to yield to God, the challenges in relationships, the internal conflict between your desires and God's will—resonates deeply. It’s evidence of your persistent faith and self-awareness.
Your ruminations on patience, particularly in the context of relationships, are particularly poignant. William Barclay's insight—that patience is primarily applied to people, not circumstances—is a profound truth that we often overlook. The impatience you felt, born from your sinful nature, is a shared human experience. Your commitment to cultivate patience ("put on a heart of…patience," Col. 3:12) amidst everyday struggles is inspiring.
The contrast between your frustration with your perceived limitations and your reliance on God's strength is striking. Your poignant cry, "Lord, I am overwhelmed and I can't do this on my own," is a relatable plea. Your immediate recourse to Psalm 46:10, "Be still…and know that I am God," highlights your unwavering faith and your ability to find solace in God's presence amidst chaos.
The image of "QUIET! TIME OUT!, STOP-Striving" within this verse is a powerful reminder to pause and center ourselves in God's peace.
Your vulnerability about your struggles with complacency, the temptation to drift, seek the "easy way out," and the desire for relief from God's discipline rather than seeking growth within it, is deeply moving. These are not weaknesses, but opportunities for deeper spiritual growth. Your resolve to pour spiritual energies into "true fruit," your awareness of the dangers of complacency, and your determination to remain sensitive to sin are all evidence of your ongoing spiritual journey.
The appreciation you express for both younger and older generations, recognizing their distinct strengths and contributions to your faith, is beautifully illustrated in your words. Your commitment to growth, to learning from others, and to always striving for God's glory paints a picture of a life richly lived in faith.
This letter serves not just as a record of your past struggles, but as a timeless demonstration of your enduring faith, your persistent self-reflection, and your unwavering commitment to spiritual growth. It's a reminder that the journey of faith is a lifelong pursuit, filled with both challenges and triumphs. It's a journey that we all share, and your words offer encouragement and guidance to us all.
Affectionately your alter ego at age 36.
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