About eleven years ago, a friend introduced me to the wonderful world of scrapbooking. As a child, I saved things that had sentimental value to me. I’m a romantic, and when my husband and I dated, I saved his letters, cards, ticket stubs, and other mementos that reflected our relationship. Once we had children, I did the same thing. All of those items tell a story.

The phrase, “A picture is worth a thousand words,” is so true. I have boxes and boxes of photos in my craft nook, and files of them on my computer, waiting to be put in albums. I’ve started dabbling in digital scrapbooking, which I like so much more because there’s no cleanup.

A week ago, I had the honor of putting together a slideshow for a memorial service at church. Our very talented, passionate pianist breathed her last cancer-laden breath and went home to be with Jesus on January 2 at 9:20 a.m. Our church hosted a Celebration of Life memorial service this past Sunday to honor her memory.

As I went through her photos from infancy to present, I was touched by her beauty and passion for Jesus. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, educator, missionary, pianist, and friend. She always had a smile, laughed even when her illness caused much pain, and spread her joy to others.

I’m intrigued by the stories we have to tell about our lives. I have a friend who has encountered more trials in her years than any human should be allowed. Through abuse, grief, sorrow, sickness, her life shines brighter than ever. God used her different experiences to reflect his Glory. She is one of the strongest prayer warriors I know. Another friend posted on the MBT Ponderers blog how God showed her the true definition of her life.

We all have a story to tell. Our circumstances can grind us down, or they can be used to make us stronger. Imagine if the photos in your life were put to a slideshow. What story would they tell?