A family member sent me a box of old photos, and I stumbled on this one. It was 1972 and I’m certain this flower child was unaware of how chic those wide-legged pants were. I was probably on a day trip with my Aunt DeDe or my grandma back in the idyllic San Diego days. (I’m not sure who the man is but his hat and camera were iconic so I couldn’t crop him out.)

Life is easy and breezy for most five-year-olds, and standing amongst the colorful blooms beautifully captures that time’s essence. As we age and experience more life, we realize things are not always as simple as a glorious pot of pansies or peonies.

If I could talk to my five-year-old self I would tell her the path ahead will not be easy, but walking with God will make it worth it.

I would share about who God is and who He created her to be.

I am the beginning and the end. I am the first and the last. Revelation 22:13

My hand laid the foundation of the earth, and my right hand spread out the heavens. Isaiah 48:13

I am light; in me there is no darkness. 1 John 1:5

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you. Jeremiah 1:5

My Spirit is within you. Ezekiel 36:27

I will never leave you. Deuteronomy 31:8

I chose you and appointed you to bear fruit. John 15: 16

I did not give you a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

I will build my church through you. Matthew 16:18

I am coming soon. Revelation 3:11

I will comfort you as you wait. Isaiah 66:13

You will be with me, and I will wipe every tear from your eyes, and death will be no more. Revelation 21:3-5