An Open Letter to All the Single Ladies

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Dear Single Women, Tonight I threw my windows wide open, picked a new recipe to try, and blasted John Mayer as I filled my kitchen with delectable odors. While I prepared sustenance to feed others, I fed my spirit and thanked Jesus for this stage of my life.
You see, I am not always thankful for these single years. Maybe you aren't either. Believe me, I get it. But sometimes I think we are way to quick to wish away this season of life. You see, there is a freedom unique to single life. Freedom to love hard and big on other people, freedom to spend your time serving and encouraging, freedom to pursue your passions without having to take another person into account. 
I watch so many of you hate this time of life and beg for it to end. I've been there myself. It can be hard when everyone around you is dating, getting married, having babies, and seemingly finding the "spark" of life that is always just out of reach for you. But I wonder...what will we miss if we choose to dwell on what is not instead of focusing on the shower of grace and joy right in front of us? 
Tomorrow, I will:  meet some girls from my small group for coffee  love on some precious kids (not because I have to, but just because I can)  cook and deliver meals to various families facing various trials enjoy the beautiful sunshine while going for an afternoon run spend the evening with my mom and brother. 
No, I don't have a significant other to call or text or hang out with, but tomorrow, I will choose to be okay with that. After all, how many of the above things would I be able to do if I was also juggling all that is involved in caring for a husband and family? I am finding the joy in this season of freedom God has me in right now. 
To all you single women in the same season, I say this: I get it. I know the heartache of feeling alone in singleness, the never-ending dread of those awkward "third wheel" moments, the longing to be known deeply and intimately. I also know that God has given me a unique opportunity to shower His love and encouragement on many people as I cook them meals, send them encouraging texts, take care of their kids, or visit at the drop of a hat when a hug is needed...things I will not always have the freedom to do. One day when I am, Lord willing, married with kids, I hope to look back on this season of singleness and know that I filled these days to the brim with love and passion and encouraging others. 
What about you? Are you choosing to find joy and purpose in this season of singleness, or are you too busy wishing it away? I hope you will choose to revel in the freedom instead of sulking over what is not. Don't let the joy pass you by!
 Love,