They say that the only things that are certain are death and taxes. I say the only thing that’s certain (other than our salvation or damnation) is that we can't know anything for certain. Taxes, most likely, but not definitely. Death? Sure, so far we’ve all died, but we never can know when Jesus will return. And when he does, then won’t those alive then just go to their salvation or damnation without ever tasting death as we know it? Physical death, I mean. But then again, their bodies couldn’t go, so they would die anyway. But in their case, wouldn’t the bodies die because the soul left the body? Usually the soul leaves the body because the body first died- stopped working. Or would our bodies continue to function purposelessly even while our souls were gone, and continue to do so until physical causes killed them or until the destruction of the world?

Questions like that only underline how little we know, don’t they? Which only reminds us yet again, that we can’t be sure of anything beyond our salvation or damnation. And even that is faith-based. It’s impossible to prove it with human knowledge or thought or understanding. There is no understanding it. Crazy.

Sometimes I would love to fast forward five years or so to see what my life will look like. I think most people would. But then I think of the adventure and realize it would grow either perpetually gloomy or else dull to know what was coming my way. In the end, I think I prefer it this way. Plan for the worst and hope and dream for the best. Be surprised.

As the new year approaches, I find myself sitting in an airport in Monterrey, Mexico. It’s 10pm. My flight’s been delayed. I haven’t eaten a proper meal all day and I’m tired and hungry and stiff. But it’s worth it because at the end of today, I’ll be home. In my beautiful city of Puebla with my beautiful family. And that’s kind of what 2016 was like for me. Much of it, I spent going through broken friendships, depression, and numerous other trials. But in the end, that was all worth it, because I came out a different person, better learned in faith and joy.

Let 2017 come. I’m excited to see how tired and hungry and stiff I get… and to see where I end up after it all.