I can't quite believe I'm about to turn 30! About ten years ago, while at a family friend's 30th birthday party, I remember quietly thinking to myself, 'well they're getting on a bit!'
And here I am on the cusp of hitting this milestone, one minute feeling great about turning 30 and the next minute feeling not so great about leaving my twenties behind, forever!
It's funny how sometimes I feel not much older than 18, but then I see and hear some 18 year olds and then I suddenly feel so much older, almost 30 even!
I'm slowly getting used to the idea of turning 30 and as I reflect on the year that was and the sad passing of beautiful people I have had the privilege of knowing, with two young and incredibly brave women not even reaching this age, I am quickly reminded of what a blessing it is to get older and to embrace each day as a gift.
Psalm 39, verse 4 reminds us of how short our time here on earth is and to make the most of our days.
"Show me, Lord, my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is."
We just don't know what is around the corner, and we don't know how long we will have.
The recent siege in the Sydney café achingly proves this as the men and women caught up in the horrendous and traumatic experience would never have imagined having to go through such an ordeal as they left for work that morning.
And so my prayer has become that of Psalm 90, verse 12:
"Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."
I am the first to admit that I need a heart of wisdom to ensure I make the most of each day and to live it like it could be my last. Each day is indeed a gift from God, even though at times it can feel like one big, hard test!
The past couple of months have been the most challenging of my life and I have at times forgotten just what a blessing and privilege it is to wake up each day! Not to mention having a roof over my head, a full stomach, loved ones and a healthy, beautiful son.
So I am determined as I head into my 30s and beyond to fully embrace each day, to not take anything or anyone for granted and to ask God daily for wisdom and guidance so I can make the most of my days, however many they may be!
"This is the day that the lord has made and I will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118 verse 24
Jo Fuller is an early childhood teacher with degrees in journalism and education. She is currently kept busy by her baby, Isaac and lives on the Sunshine Coast with her husband.
Jo Fuller's archive of articles may be viewed at http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/jo-fuller.html