Many of my ministry colleagues are returning home today after five days in Chicago for Group’s KidMin 2012 Conference. I was heartbroken that I had to cancel my registration at the last-minute, as I thoroughly enjoyed attending last year.
As I reflect on the “conference that wasn’t”, my mind was flooded with things that I learned as a result of NOT attending the conference. Here’s the shortlist:
- Pouting and sulking are for toddlers and preschoolers, not a grown woman.
- Disappointment is a part of life. It just is.
- Being green with envy is NOT a good look for me.
- Limiting my time on social media during the conference was a good thing. (Refer back to #3.)
- Getting a nasty head cold the day before I was scheduled to leave for the conference was no accident. I spent much of the weekend in bed with a box of Kleenex and hot tea. God knew that I’d much rather be at home sick than in a beautiful hotel with thousands of KidMin leaders enjoying the conference without me. And–I can be a wee bit grumpy when I’m sick. 🙂
- Interstate love is palpable. A few of my ministry colleagues actually said that they missed me being there! That makes a girl feel so special!
The bottom line is that we all have disappointments. It’s how we deal with them that show what we’re made of. And I was reminded just how tough I am. Besides..if God wills, there’s always next year!