Greater things are yet to come

Tonight Virginia and I went to Campus Christian Fellowship at NC State, where her cousin Nathan is interning at. What a blessing it was! It was so encouraging to see how welcoming everyone there was. We literally could not stop talking about it on the way back. It was also apparent that they really value studying and teaching the Word. The community there was so open and real and willing to discuss Scripture in a genuine way. I crave that kind of community. I have experienced it here at Campbell, but I think it's something that could be improved. I am going to be praying about ways that can change on this campus. I want to have a more solid community and leave a legacy for the incoming freshman each year. I hope to go back to CCF sometime and get to know the people there better. Very, very cool night. :)

Aside from all of that, I have had a lot of random things going through my brain tonight. Lots of great thoughts about things of the past and possibilities for the future.

I'm not sure why, but I have a strong desire to be in New York City right now. There are times when I step outside of the "thriving metropolis" of Buies Creek and think about the tangible needs that so many people have. I am led to think about all of the people I have met during the time I have spent in New York. I think about Wee and Peiyin and Rocco and Angel. They have each changed my life more than they know. Perhaps I will be able to go back this coming summer. I am still going to go up there and start a coffee shop with Robyn one day.

I have also been thinking about New Zealand and Australia quite a bit lately. I learned this past weekend that only one percent of the population there are evangelical Christians. I want the people there to know Jesus in a real way, and I am pretty sure I want to do something about that. I am still trying to figure out what that might be.

On a side note, I am in the process of writing a song that I can play on the guitar. Maybe even sing it too. My inspiration: Ingrid Michaelson and Shelly Moore.

Jilene and I have decided to work on a song or two for the Monday Night Bible Study Coffee House. I will play guitar and she will sing. It should be interesting and fun. :)

I also found out a few days ago that I will be speaking at the Honors Banquet at Campbell next Monday. I am so excited about it! It's so great to have so many wonderful opportunities right before I graduate.

Also, in the next couple of weeks I am going to start writing for myMISSIONfulfilled.com, a website for young women that is owned and operated by the Woman's Missionary Union. I am definitely ready to start writing now! My first article will be about Bread for the World and will be in the Social Justice section. I have prayed about this for months now and I can't believe it is actually a reality! What a blessing straight from God. Be on the lookout for my writing in the coming months. :)

I am so incredibly blessed. Life is grand, and God is good.

Birthday Blessings

I should be working on a research presentation, but alas, I find myself with a head full of thoughts and the urge to type them out. I admit that I have done a poor job of keeping up with my blog. For the few faithful followers, I promise to be more consistent in my writing. :)

The past two days have been absolutely amazing. I turned 22, although I cannot say that I feel any older. Perhaps wiser, and more prepared to conquer the world. It was once again confirmed that I desire to have closer relationships with my friends and a deeper walk with the Lord.

This desire became even more apparent as I spent time with some of the most important people in my life. Robyn and Abigail came home with me and were able to meet my family. Mom made yummy food and my family gave me fun gifts. Robyn and Abigail and I braved the rain and went out for lunch and tea, did a bit of shopping, drove around Davidson and Mooresville, talked about Literature, shared secrets, sang and played guitar, attempted a crossword puzzle, went to church, and said and did many things that deserve a good hearty laugh, {or at least a giggle}.



When Abigail and I got back to campus, we went to the free Derek Webb concert on campus. His lyrics and music are so rich. Derek played all of the songs on his twelve string guitar, which was so impressive. I had time to reflect on life and what's behind me and before me. It was the perfect end to an already amazing weekend, or so I thought...

When I returned to my apartment, my roommates Virginia and Jilene had decorated the apartment with birthday signs, and had gifts waiting for me on the table. We had a fun conversation about all sorts of things. Tomorrow night, Jilene is taking me out for dinner and a few more friends should be coming too. Tuesday night, Virginia and I are going to Campus Christian Fellowship at NC State. I can't wait! How was I blessed with such great roommates? They are so wonderful.

I also took some time to listen to voicemails and read through my facebook wall posts, which was a huge blessing in and of itself. I'm pretty sure those messages would make the most depressed person swell with joy.

I wish I could find the words to tell my friends how much they mean to me. They care about me more than I deserve. I am humbled by their generosity and love.

As cheesy as it sounds, I am reminded of one of my favorite quotes by Albert Camus: “Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Just walk beside me and be my friend.”

I am so excited to see what God has in store for this coming year-probably more blessings than I could ever imagine. He tends to bring good things into my life when I least expect it.