And if you want to hear God laugh, tell him your plans.

To say the very least, I think we can all agree that life is an interesting journey.
Along my humble path thus far, I have learned a few things- one of which is that things almost always work out. This is why I try not to focus on worrying about the future constantly.

There was a while in my life when I was quite a planner. I specifically remember my interview for the Salaam program, when I was asked where I saw myself in 5 years. I remember laughing and telling my interviewers that they were in for a lot more than they asked, then proceeded to tell them my detailed 2, 5 & 10 year plans.

My how things change.

But change is good, you have to be able to 'roll with the punches'. And I think my life right now is much better than where I had planned to be 2 years ago.

I got to see one of my best friends last night for the first time in about 6 months. We had planned a bottle of wine and a movie, our usual chatty night in. But from the second we both ran to the door, to the long hug when I left 5 hours later, we had so much to talk about, we never got to the movie.

Its funny, because she and I have only been able to talk a handful of times since we last saw each other, and usually just for a few minutes. But she is one of those friends who I always know that we can pick up exactly where we left off, no matter what. We discussed this together last night as well. Along with the fact that although we are at different places in our lives on some levels (she is married and has a baby), it doesn't feel like it. Although many things have changed throughout our friendship, each of us is inherently the same, at our core.

It is comforting to have friendships like these. A few of those constants, that you know will always be there no matter what.

We talked about so many things last night, and conversations kept circling back to our lives, and our plans. Its funny how there is always something. Always some looming decision or issue that seems like it is life or death. Like choosing wrong could make or break your entire being. (Sometimes I am dramatic). But really. Whether that decision is to move across the world, have a baby, get married, chose a major, change jobs, etc. Most people have one hanging over their heads.

This is the beauty of life. It is in a constant state of flux. Ever-changing. Ever-challenging. Ever-difficult. Ever-wonderful.

I think I have done a good job so far being able to accept life as it comes, I've definitely learned a lot. Of course you still have to make plans and set goals and have dreams and ambitions. But I try not to be too surprised if they don't work out exactly as I planned. Usually the change is better. At least in the long run.

And I have found that no matter what happens, as long as you keep the core of who you are the same, your deep down dreams, your true personality, no changes can break you. Its hard to keep that in mind sometimes.

Which is why, to ensure that I never forget mine- here it is. For all to see. My personal mission statement:

Personal: I will make time to take care of myself, mind, body and spirit. I will not hold in my emotions, and learn to face situations head on, with no fear. I will not let my self-worth be determined by anyone other than myself. I will take care of my own health so that I may live a long and productive life. I will make time to foster my spiritual health, deciding on an outlet for doing so and making a regular commitment.

Family/Friends: I will reach out to those who aren't able. I will make the time to communicate with my friends and family and help if needed. I will set an example with my actions making all who love me proud of me. I will raise a family that I can be proud of, with a strength of character and moral conviction and the passion to follow their dreams.

Professional: I will pursue my passion with relentless determination. I will gain the skills that I need to start my own non-profit organization that helps others realize and achieve their potential. My energy will inspire those with whom I work, my compassion help me connect with them, and my strength of character will set an example to follow. Each day I will actively contribute to world harmony.

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Cheers to the dreamers, the do-ers and the ones who are able to enjoy the beauties of an un-plannable, un-tamable future. Don't fight it. Run with it and live it up.