The Masculine Journey

Do I have what it takes?

This is the question that every man asks himself. Every man wants to feel strong enough and successful enough. As each young boy grows up, he yearns for affirmation especially from his father. I was and still am fortunate to have a loving and encouraging father. Yet I still ask the question. Do I have what it takes to survive and thrive in a career? Do I have what it takes to finish grad school and provide for a family? I become overwhelmed at times with all the responsibility on my shoulders. I often do not believe that I have what it takes. But others do, especially my wife. And while I do find encouragement from others, it is not enough. I long for the true Father to whisper in the wind that I have what it takes.. that I am His Beloved Son.. and that He will not leave me to struggle alone. As afraid as I am of what lies ahead, I can rest in the promise that the Holy Spirit is with me. But don't think that I never get scared or lonely. Life as a Christian comes with many trials and frustrations, but there is hope and that's what keeps me going. All I want is to one day sit at the feet of Jesus and for him to say, "Well done good and faithful servant." This is the cross I carry and the life to which I am called.

A Busy Year

I have finished my first year of grad school at UAB. Four classes down and 13 to go. I hope I can finish in less than 4 years! I have enjoyed some of the classes so far. This fall will be quite busy with a new baby in the picture. Isaiah will be joining Lindsey and I in about 9 weeks!! I am so excited about being a father and starting this new chapter. God has been so faithful and blessed our family more than we deserve.
This is the year of weddings. I have been in two already and have two more to be in. And there are several more that we are going to this summer. Mike and Allie are getting married in Nashville on July 3rd. Then Isaiah is due somewhere around August 5th, right after our 2 year anniversary! Then Matt and McLean are getting married in Tampa, FL on October 3rd. It's a big year for the Murphy family! It is an exciting time.