About

This blog was originally started to document my adventures in Kenya during the summer of 2013. However, I have recently felt the desire to continue blogging past my experiences last summer and into my day-to-day life. This involves musings, stories, plans, desires, etc, anything that comes to mind that I think others may enjoy or take something from. I don't know if people will actually read this blog, nor do I assume that I carry some wisdom or even a different perspective on life. This is merely a way for me to write down my thoughts on life and allow others to read them if they wish.

The title of this blog comes from the following poem in J. R. R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.

All that is gold does not glitter,

Not all those who wander are lost,

The old that is strong does not wither,

Deep roots are not reached by the frost.

This poem has quite a specific meaning in the book, but I have found it to be rather beautiful taken out of its original context. Tolkien has played on William Shakespeare's even more famous "not all that glitters is gold" line, but the two have quite opposite meanings. Shakespeare alludes to the fact that not every thing that appears to be good really is; Tolkien suggests that not every good thing is obviously so at first. Appearances can be misleading, and what I view this verse to mean is that you cannot judge based solely on what your first impression is. Tolkien used this poem in reference to a character in the book who was at first misjudged based on his outwardly appearance. This reminds me that I cannot judge people on what I see at first, whether their hair or style or occupation or anything else. What really makes everyone special is what is inside of them, and even if they do not appear to be gold at first, there is always something beautiful about each person, if I only take the time to look.

I also see it as a reminder that there is beauty in the little, seemingly mundane things that at first appear worthless but are later revealed to be quite meaningful. Finding joy in the small things, stopping to smell the roses, allows me to see the gold of life, even if it appears "glitterless" at first. I am very future-oriented, always wanting to be one step ahead of where I actually am. I am not saying it is bad to plan or even look forward to the future, but the opening line from this poem reminds me to not become so focused on what is in front of me that I forget to notice what is around me, the things I have been blessed with right now. 

With all of that being said, I wanted to mention just a few brief but important facts about myself. First and foremost, I am a Christian. I strive daily to bring glory to God through my thoughts, words, and actions, although I must say I am not very successful. However, I am loved by a God who forgives and redeemed by a sinless Savior. Following Jesus' example can be challenging at times, but it is worth every step. I am also extremely blessed by the best family I could ever ask for and friends scattered throughout the country who I can call on at any moment.

Anyway, enough for now. I hope you enjoy my journey to find the gold in life.