A story is not what we think it is. It isn’t words on a page. It’s life. Your life. My life. Lives of those around us and fictional lives of those who’ve never existed. When, as a young child, my parents instilled in me the love of reading, I didn’t realize I was writing my own story.
My every word, every thought, every smile, every cry is added to my life story.
I know many people who have regrets, life lessons they’ve learned, and pain they’ve suffered. They’ve learned from their mistakes and as I watch them I learn how to hold my tongue, take care of my body, apologize, and the list goes on. If you watch anyone long enough, they blunder. They slip-up, and I do too.
There’s something you should know about me. I am 15. I haven’t lived very long compared to others. The things I’ve learned will keep me from making some mistakes, but other mistakes I have made and will have to make for myself. Perhaps others will pick up on my faults and put into practice the lessons I learn the hard way.
I’ve already gleaned many lessons of which my adult friends remark “I wish I’d learned that at your age.” For that reason, I treasure those particular lessons.
I’ve heard my whole life that teenagers are expected to “rebel.” Now, I’m a teenager and I haven’t felt the urge to “rebel.” Maybe some would say I’ve been brainwashed into being “good,” but whether or not that’s the case, I’ve discovered a most remarkable word: grace. A simple word, used mainly in the New Testament, for it refers to the New Covenant in Christ’s blood.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast.” {Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV}
Grace. It’s a concept I’d only associated with salvation until a year ago when I read Graceful by Emily P. Freeman and One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp. At the same time, my mom and several of her friends had discovered those authors. My mom and I being very close, we talked about grace a lot over the past year. We recognized patterns in our own lives that were far from graceful. We held each other accountable. But what is grace? There are many definitions.
I see grace as praising God for another day. Grace is a thankful heart in the midst of stress or struggles. Grace is holding my tongue. Grace is forgiving others their imperfections in light of my own. Grace is giving myself a second chance, especially when I learn lessons the hard way.
Grace is not an excuse to sin. As Christians, we have freedom. And I guess that’s what grace is. Freedom. Freedom to live without guilt. Freedom to trust God in every circumstance. Freedom to dream big. Freedom to love others unconditionally.
Ah. Yes. Freedom. Isn’t it beautiful?
Freedom for me and others to break the stereotype that the word “teenager” brings to most people’s minds. Freedom to learn from others’ mistakes. Freedom to accept grace after making my own mistakes. Freedom to break molds, break chains, and break from Satan’s foothold in your life.
I want people who read my life story to be amazed by God’s grace despite my flaws. I want them to see that I chose not to conform to the patterns of this world. I want them to see the freedom in Christ with which I live.
I am still writing my story. The incredible thing is that you are writing your own story, too. And you can choose whether you want it to be characterized by grace or guilt, freedom or bondage, lessons learned or mistakes blatantly ignored. You can choose daily whether you follow Christ’s lead or your own whims.
Choose today. Every day. And please, choose grace. Go write your own story.
A story is not what we think it is. It isn’t words on a page. It’s life. Your life. My life.
Jas says
A lovely post and so deep and insightful, you write with such maturity.
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you!
Shelley says
Beautiful words from a beautiful young lady!
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you for reading, Mrs. Shelley!
Louise says
Wow, wow, wow Madeline. Timely for me this morning, thank you. Keep writing, you have a gift. And you’ve nailed grace!! Much love in your life xxx
Madeline Osigian says
May you see God’s grace in your life today. xxx
heather m says
Girlfriend you have a gift!!! What lovely and timely words!! Don’t feel bad- I never felt the need to rebel as a teen either! I think I kind of saved it up for my late 20s!
KEEP on WRITING!! Oh and it’s cool you love decorating too! High five girl! Have a great day! : )
Madeline Osigian says
Nice to know I’m not the only one. 🙂
Yes. I have quite the variety of passions.
Joanne says
As always, your words are both powerful and eloquent.
It has been a blessing to see you grow into such a lovely lady.
I am confident you will continue to let God utilize your talents and gifts throughout your life [from these “rebellious” teenage years and on].
Hugs, lovely lady!
Madeline Osigian says
Aw. Thank you for your kind and gracious words!
Carissa says
Wise words! Learning to embrace grace has been the most rewarding lesson of my life. It is so wonderful you are learning it early on!
Madeline Osigian says
Yes. I am blessed.
Melissa says
Madeline, your life is such a beautiful testimony of Jesus’ grace for sinners. Keep up the amazing work. I love watching you bloom.
Eternal love!
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you. You are a blessing to me!
Monica B says
Beautiful. Thank you. I needed to hear this today. God bless!!
Madeline Osigian says
Yes. I know I need to hear “give yourself grace” often. 🙂
Mary T says
I loved reading your post today…wonderfully encouraging!
Madeline Osigian says
Thanks. I love sharing what I’m learning about.
KIm says
Madeline, What an awesome post! You are a very gifted writer! You have an amazing talent with words that makes people stop and look at things in a different light. That is great. I know that Jesus is smiling down on you! I can’t wait to read more of your post. Keep up the great work.
Press on!
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you for reading. It’s all for His glory.
Noel Osigian Domingo says
Madeline you are growing into such a lovely young woman. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings in writing so that others may benefit from your experience.
Love you,
Aunt Noel
Madeline Osigian says
Aw! Thank you, Aunt Noel, for your encouraging words.
Veronica says
Madeline,
God’s Grace shines through you. Such beauty and truth in your writing and only fifteen. Amazing!
It is never to late to discover His Grace. It sets us free. God Bless and keep writing.
Madeline Osigian says
Amen!
Sharlyn says
What a beautiful story your life is, Madeline! You are a gifted writer and such an encourager.
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you. God has been good to me!
Linda K says
Madeline… your thoughts are as beautiful as you are, dear one! Grace is one of the sweetest blessings bestowed on us by our Savior, and how wonderful that we can extend grace to others! Your story is starting out so perfectly!! What a lovely home you have been placed in to grow in grace!! God is so kind…
Madeline Osigian says
Yes. God has been so very good to me.
Kelly A says
“Grace is giving myself a second chance, especially when I learn lessons the hard way.”
Amen, sister! What a good word today.
Madeline Osigian says
Yes ma’am! I’m clearly still learning. 🙂
InfertilityMom and StrokeOfGrace says
Well done Madeline. Keep writing!
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you. Writing is a joy!
Laura Rath says
This is beautiful. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and words, and giving others (me) something to think about. God bless!
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you. God bless!
Audrey says
Madeline you are an amazing friend and are so encouraging. You’re that rare friend that EVERYONE needs! You’re such a light to others….the Christian that always has someone look after them saying “I wonder what causes her to be so happy and kind?” I hope you always know that we love you so much!! Don’t stop writing!! 🙂
-your friend audrey
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you, sweet friend! It’s truly by God’s grace that I can do any of this.
Kim Shorman says
Madeline,
Love your honesty and perception of how the Lord deals with us. Can’t wait to see what He has in store for you! Many blessings on your life!
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you. The Lord has blessed me.
Julie Sunne says
Great insight, Madeline, and well written. I find it sad that the word “teenager” conjures up an image of rebellion. Two of my children are in college now and neither one found the need to “rebel,” thanks to God’s grace. As a mother of four, I enjoy the teenage years. Maybe through you and others like my boys, the image of teenagers can be transformed. God’s blessings as you continue to walk with Him.
Madeline Osigian says
Yes. Do Hard Things by Brett and Alex Harris inspired me to make the most of my tween and teen years. 🙂
Susan Shipe says
Your story is beginning well. Blessings to you and may you never take the pen out of Father’s hands…xo
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you for your prayers.
Melissa U says
Thank you for teaching what you’re being taught and writing what’s being written into your life. Continue to let your light shine dear one!
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you for your encouraging words and friendship.
Caroline says
Thanks! That was awesome! You are such an amazing, faithful mentor in my life!
Madeline Osigian says
Thanks, girl. You rock!
Marty says
Wise beyond your years. Thank you for sharing your heart in this post today. 🙂
Madeline Osigian says
You’re welcome. It’s a joy! 🙂
Audrey says
Wow! This is awesome for you to be a part of another site. You do have such a talent/gift and its precious to see you use it for The Lord. I am very proud of your commitment and passion for writing, but most importantly your desire to strengthen your relationship with Christ daily. I love you!
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you, Mrs. Audrey! I love you too.
Kate Carman says
Aw, thank you for sharing. Your words are a comforting balm. My daughter is only 4 and at times, while i want her to grow in independence, i am also fearful of the world that she is growing up in. Intellectually, i know that i should not fear, but i needed this heart reminder from you and other commenters that it doesnt have to be so scary _ God and His grace are so incredibly powerful! Be.different my dear! Go powerfully in his righteousness and grace! It encourages us! 🙂
Madeline Osigian says
The world can seem scary, but God is so much bigger and stronger! Thank you for your kind words.
Maria says
What a great post! You have inspired me to stop looking back and live life in grace right now! Also, yes, to appreciate grace in my own story, today!
Your words, so eloquent! – you were born to write!!
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you. Grace is a huge lesson I’m learning.
Sarah says
Wow, Madeline, what a lovely post. I live in a relatively small town in the UK and yesterday, a teacher and pupil were attacked by a fellow-pupil at my old school. It was a shock, so especially comforting to read that you’re a teenager who doesn’t want to rebel. I pray God will bless you and your writing, and hope you’ll always follow Him wholeheartedly.
Madeline Osigian says
I’m so sorry. Praying for that situation. Thanks for reading.
Kim Dean says
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Such beautiful writing and profound insight from such a young woman. I can tell that God indeed has GREAT plans for your life! Keep on keeping on!
Madeline Osigian says
I believe He does too. Thanks for reading today.
Melody Schottle says
“I see grace as praising God for another day. Grace is a thankful heart in the midst of stress or struggles. Grace is holding my tongue. Grace is forgiving others their imperfections in light of my own. Grace is giving myself a second chance, especially when I learn lessons the hard way.”
well said, Madeline. thank you for reminding me.
Great job!! You are a writer.
xxoo Mrs. Melody
Madeline Osigian says
🙂 Thank you.
Robyn says
What a wonderful post. I enjoy everything you write, but some definitely stand out above others and this is the best one ever! I’m so grateful that God has placed you in my life and I’ve been able to watch you grow into a beautiful young woman. I truly enjoy seeing how God continues to use you mightily to encourage others, especially me. Great job!!
Madeline Osigian says
Aw. Thanks! I’m so grateful for YOU in my life!
Stephanie T says
So beautifully thought-out and written, as always! I become more aware of, and in awe of, God’s grace every day. It is exciting to see Him furiously at work in someone as young as you–awesome!!
Madeline Osigian says
Thanks for your sweet encouragement.
MeMeMa says
I am so proud of you Angel girl. God has gifted you in many ways. Your words are encouraging and inspiring. Keep walking God’s path and be amazed by where He takes you! I love you! I’m so proud of you!
Madeline Osigian says
I love you too!
Lisa says
Wow, Madeline! I’m already awed by how you’ve poured into my daughter and other girls that you mentor. Now, to see what you’ve written and more than that, how you’ve let God move in/lead your life. Thank you for writing your life story down for the rest of us to share in!
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you. I am so blessed to get the opportunity to mentor your daughter and others. They are treasures!
Kim Brown says
Madeline,
You are an amazingly gifted writer and your understanding of Grace and God’s love is inspiring to me! I am blessed to have watched you grow up into a lovely young lady and am excited to see what God’s plans are for your life! Keep writing and encouraging!
Mrs. Kim
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you. God does have great plans. I’m humbled to be a part of them, however small.
Jolene says
Madeline
I love your writings.
You model the words in 1 Timothy 4:12 – Don’t let anyone put you down because you’re young. Teach believers with your life: by word, by demeanor, by love, by faith, by integrity
Thanks for sharing your heart
Madeline Osigian says
Aw! That’s my favorite verse ever! Thanks for reading.
Auntie says
WOW!!! You continue to amaze me. God has blessed you in so many ways. He’s using you in so many ways. Your writing is very encouraging. Love you sweet girl!
Madeline Osigian says
You’re so right–He has blessed me! I love you too.
Jacki Rucksdashel says
Madeline! This was the highlight of my day! I am so thankful I got to meet you at Declare but even more for your heart, your words, your invitation to me to embrace grace each day. You are an inspiration and I can’t wait to keep reading what you are living.
Madeline Osigian says
I am so thankful to have met you too. So many women have poured into me. It’s a blessing to turn it around.
Angela says
Bravo, Madeline!
Wonderful post!!!
Kim stewart says
Madeline, what a beautiful post full of inspiration for women of all ages. Loved seeing your sweet young face at Declare. Thank you for encouraging me to write my story!
Madeline Osigian says
Thanks for reading!
William Osigian says
How very well put and very true. We are each a book a story at the heart of our God and King. You hit the nail on the head. What a gracious God we have and life filled with His grace.
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you. God is good!
Susie Osigian says
I am INSPIRED to choose Grace! and Freedom!
Thank you, Madeline. Thoughtfully written.
Madeline Osigian says
Yay! I love to hear that.
Nikki says
Incredible wisdom from one so young. I’m encouraged by what you wrote! I have 2 girls, 10 and 3 years old. It’s encouraging to hear that teens don’t always rebel. It’s encouraging to hear that you and your mom are so close, I so desire that with my girls.
Madeline Osigian says
That’s wonderful! Thanks for sharing that dream.
Beth Williams says
You are wise beyond your years!!! My story is filled with ups and downs, good times and regrets. But mostly I am thankful for the Grace God gives us–not to keep on sinning OH NO!! But to forgive us of our sins. Like Jesus instructed I forgive people all the time (70X70). I want to model Christ in my life just like you are doing!
Keep up the writing!!
Blessings 🙂
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you. Grace is truly a wonderful thing! I don’t know what I’d do without His grace.
Julie Flores says
Your testimony on God’s grace and the grace we extend to others is beautifully written and inspirational.
(((HUG)))
Madeline Osigian says
Thank you. God is good to me!