I LOVE the Wii Fit!

Okay, so I must admit, I have a new addiction.

Even worse, it's an addiction to a video game.

But not just any video game; one of the hottest video games on the market, the Nintendo Wii Fit.

This game is incredible! It offers games and activities in aerobics, strength training, balance games, and yoga for multiple players. The game can track your BMI and weight, calculate a "Wii Age" that fits a body test, and offer you fitness tips. You can even set and track weight loss/gain goals with the program!
Although I haven't quite explored the yoga exercises, I can't help but try to break records in the other areas. I currently hold a record for the tightrope and ski-jump balance games. In the strength training exercises, I've challenged my "trainer" to push-ups or jack knife exercises. My favorite games are the aerobic exercises. In fact, I'm excited to share that I proudly hold the hoola-hoop record of over 3,300 hoola hoops on the ten minute challenge!

Okay, okay, enough boasting, I understand!

You can just bet, though, that I'll be playing this game as much as possible while I'm here! It's a great game to play individually and especially with family! This is definitely a game that I'll be looking out for when I can afford a Wii of my own!

Explore the site and take a look for yourself!

Christmas Time

With Christmas passed, the weekend over, and New Year's right around the corner, I've reluctantly accepted that my relaxing time with family, games, and lots of food is coming to a close. This Christmas has been one of the best that I can remember. Whether surprising both sets of parents with family photos, playing hours of the Wii with my brothers, or spending time surrounded by extended family and friends, I realize how very blessed I am.

One of my favorite memories this holiday came as a request that my mom had for one of her Christmas presents. Her desire was for us, as a family, to serve others somewhere on Christmas Eve. And so, Christmas Eve began with some exciting adventures as my mom, brother John, and I set off in the late morning to volunteer our time at Boyertown Salvation Army serving community members at the Christmas Eve dinner.




It was easy to sign up to serve. We simply contacted Boyertown Salvation Army, asked about opportunities, and were marked on a list to serve from 11am-2pm. The meal began at noon, in which many members from the congregation, elders, and friends gathered for a free dining experience. A youth lounge area was decorated with dozens of tables set for eight, placed with candy-cane goodies and holiday decor.

All the guests enjoyed themselves. And for us, the experience was unforgettable.

Although we felt a bit out of place at first because we had no idea what our roles were nor the people with whom we were serving, my family and I quickly hit it off connecting with others. I was pleased to chat with several people; one young woman who recently has graduated from college and now teaches in the elementary division, two people whom graduated from Eastern, a youth minister, one individual going to seminary, a student at PV West in the 7th grade (my brother Thomas's school and grade), and even a twenty-one year old girl from Malawi, Africa. I collected cards, names, exchanged stories, and even was extended a job opportunity!

In addition to connecting with the volunteers and staff members, I loved conversing with the community members who came to enjoy the meal. As I was "assigned" to offer drinks to people at their table, it came easy for me to begin conversation about simple things; sports, school, Christmas plans, etc.! Some of my favorite points of conversation were with some older gentleman about football, movie collections, and old television shows. One teenager girl explained to me her Christmas t-shirt of "I want a cute boy for Christmas." One older gentlemen even asked me where the wine was, since Jesus drank wine at his dinners!

People are incredible, aren't they?

It's so silly how I sometimes-often- so easily pass over the individuality and uniqueness each single person has to offer.

Come 2pm, my family and I were sad to say goodbye to our new found friends. We shouted that we hope to see everyone at the same time and place next year. I collected Mwai's full name so that we could become official facebook friends and keep in touch. Even my brother John (who usually lacks expression for most family outings) talked about interesting parts of his experience on the ride home.

I think our family's found a new Christmas tradition.
(At least I hope!)

It's so amazing how contributing even just a few hours around the holidays towards serving others can help remind you of Jesus's most important two commandments: to love God and to love others.

• 29"The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. 31The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'There is no commandment greater than these." (Mark 12: 29-31)

Sometimes, it's so easy to get caught up in doing things for ourselves around the holidays, even if that just means "relaxing with family, games, and lots of food." Of course, so much importance lies in spending time with family. Yet, why not try some ways to spend time with family, whether immediate or extended, by serving others together? Find a way to make a tradition for loving others; whether it be around Christmas or year-round. You may be surprised at how close it draws your family together.

I've included a few sites below that are excellent sources for serving opportunities. Take a look!

• Central PA Food Bank: http://www.centralpafoodbank.org/
• The Salvation Army: http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf
• Habitat for Humanity: http://www.habitat.org/

Eternal Life

Something serious has happened in my family today.

My father is one of seven. He has three sisters and three brothers. When he was young, his youngest brother died as a teenager. Just two years ago, his older brother died from liver failure. Today, my father spent the evening with his only remaining living brother.

Today, my father told me that his only living brother has three months to live.

My uncle, my dad's last living brother, is dying from cancer.

Dying.

Seeing that it's almost Christmas Eve, I realize how the holidays are always a time to embrace family and close friends. I'm constantly reminded of how joyful my friends seem when their facebook status reads "home with the family" or "there's no place like home" at this time of year.

Family, family, family.

I myself wasn't always one who viewed family as a priority, until my dad began to hassle me about it when I was a teenager. I frequently remember him telling me, "love your brothers, because they'll be some of the closest friends you'll have."

Now, only 22, now, as I begin to "jump into the real world," now, as I watch my family mourn over broken relationships, death, and regret, I cannot be more thankful for my father's instruction.

Family is so important.

Friends are so important.

People are so important.

And yet, relationships are risky.

Yet, why does death have to hurt so bad?

Why is it so difficult to watch the tears in my father's tears eyes and not wonder why this pain has to exist?

At what point did God see it as essential to end the lives of what He's created?

To think, that one pours so much time into loving someone else; spending time with them, helping them, listening to them, creating memories together, to one day have to either leave them emotionally, physically, or in both ways.

But, Jesus is all about relationships.

Isn't it interesting how Jesus calls us "follow him" into one of the most risky investments that we can make? Jesus calls us to love others, full well knowing the pain that it can cause when we're separated from those relationships.

I wonder if Jesus ever had to watch 3 of his brothers die.

I wonder how Jesus felt while looking into the eyes of those that battled death.

I wonder how Jesus used the sorrow and compassion that he felt for others for something better.

And then there's this offer of eternal life.

Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life"
(John 5:24).

Eternal life.

Family.

Dying from cancer.

My dad is spiritual giant and someone I deeply admire because of his relationship with God. He's often challenging my family, particularly my brothers and I, to treat each other well. He often hopes for opportunities to hug each of us, no matter how embarrassing it may seem. He always speaks to us with guidance, wisdom, and love. So, today, naturally, when my father shared his news, every ounce of my insides were bursting to cry with him and hold his hand and tell him, "everything will be okay! I love you, dad! Trust the Lord!"

Yet, I couldn't.

It was too uncomfortable.

Instead, I choose to sit and listen to every word or thought or story that my dad wanted to share. I offered to do the dishes with him. I chose to spend as much time as possible around him.

Good, I thought. But not great. Why didn't I cry with him or hold his hand?

I don't want to ever loose my family members and friends and then regret that I didn't spend enough time with them or that I didn't know them well enough. I especially don't ever want to regret sharing the news of receiving eternal life with them. This past week in church, a video of Penn from magicians Penn and Tailor was shared. Penn, an atheist spoke on the topic of sharing one's faith, posing "how much do you have to hate someone to not proselytize?" (Note: proselytize means to introduce someone to one's one religious faith. It had me guessing for awhile!)

I like to think that I don't hate anyone.

But sometimes-lots of times-proselytizing, like embracing family members, is uncomfortable, even with those that are closest to you. Listening and spending time with people will always be ways to show them love. I hope, though, that I can somehow be brave enough to risk the discomfort of embracing them and telling them, "I love you! I love you!" so that I can show my family and closest friends the most absolute love possible while spending time with them one earth.

And then, if my family and friends whom I love are not believers, perhaps my love for them will open doors for them to consider Jesus's invitation to everlasting life.

Perhaps then, one day, my friends, family, and I will all be able to embrace everlasting life, just as Jesus promises.

[This is an annual Christmas Tree Cutting picture from 2006 with both my dad and my uncle. Please ignore the stubborn child in the front left. He did not approve of the Christmas tree.]

USA TODAY FIRST TEAM ALL ACADEMIC AWARD

I recently was nominated for a "USA Today First-Team All Academic Award." It's an award that recognizes the top 20 undergraduate students in the United States for the academic, intellectual, and societal achievements that they've accomplished. I was encouraged by many professors and administrators on my campus to represent Albright (and myself, of course) for the award by submitting an application. Come February, the winners will receive their pictures and biographies in the USA paper and a $2500.00 cash award.

Naturally, the application process for such an award was rigorous; asking for multiple explanations of academic, leadership, and professional experiences. Recommendations were needed from multiple venues. Most important (and most challenging), each student was expected to write a 500 word essay on his or her "most intellectual endeavor" throughout their undergraduate experience. The endeavor was judged on difficulty, uniqueness, and whether it benefits society.

Throughout my essay and as I describe my most intellectual endeavor, I wrote of the importance of discovering a passion to love and serve people. In one paragraph, I specifically state: "I aspire to one day continue communicating my desire for all people: whether women or men, young or old, that their value lies not in artificial assessments, such as academic achievement or popularity, but in understanding and loving themselves and others."

I've discovered a passion.

A passion in which I aspire to communicate to people that their lives are not based upon artificial assessment, such as academic achievement or popularity, but in understanding and loving themselves and others.

What a wonderful aspiration.

Yet, ironically (or probably not so much), after completing my application and finishing the semester, my challenge for others and "mission" for myself as stated above was tested as I anxiously checked my fall semester grades online.

After receiving my very first A- last semester, dropping my perfect 4.0 GPA to a "not uniform" 3.987, I convinced myself that my grades were no longer to identify me. Rather than measuring my self-worth on a 4.0 scale, I was to instead adopt a mission loving and serving people; finding my value in a love for people rather than an artificially assessed number.

Stubbornly, I still anticipated nothing short of a 4.0 for the semester.

Can't I believe all that "mush" about myself and still get nearly perfect grades?

Apparently not.

What I saw instead was another "not uniform" GPA, this time, a 3.976. I had received another A-, this time in my psychology senior seminar.

Apparently I wasn't the only stubborn one.

And so, when discovering my less-than-perfect-even lower than before GPA a second time, I cried.

Balwed, actually.

All day long.

In fact, I cried so much that I began to feel completely incapable of anything. I concluded that because I had received a 3.97 GPA I had "failed." That because I now hold a 3.97 GPA, I will not academically "stand out" on job applications. That because I've dropped to a 3.97 GPA, I was stupid, ugly, and friendless; anything but valuable.

Ouch.

It wasn't until I had an experience with my brother and a conversation with my boyfriend did some sense knock into me.

I thought that after my first A-, I had accepted myself with my imperfection of a 3.987 GPA. However, what I realized upon receiving my second A- was that I had not completely accepted that reality. I still had a "conditional sense of value" for myself; a value dependent upon my achievementd with grades.

Yet, after tutoring my twelve year old brother with his math homework, I felt refreshed of why I so boldly stated that loving and serving others helps me feel most alive. And after listening to Adam, I was reminded that in a world that is filled with poverty, hunger, divorce, rape, war, disease, and inequalities, we serve a God that cares about people, not about GPAs.

You see, because if you really choose to make your life about others, like Jesus, becoming obsessed over little things like GPAs don't exactly fit the "loving and serving others" description. Of course, working hard, performing well, and learning through academics is important and it can help others. Yet, there is a line that can be danced around by certain over-achievers in which the choice to "achieve As" becomes an unhealthy obsession of artificially loving and serving no one but one's self; falsely stating "I'm important because I earned an A, and I better keep it up, or else..."

I'm not sure what sort of grades or GPA Jesus received when in school.

I'm not sure if today he would make the All-USA Today Academic Firs Team with his picture in the newspaper and a cash prize award.

I am certain though that we don't know his grades for a reason.

That's not what defined him, and that's not why he's remembered.

Jesus was transformational because of his love for others and service for people.

Heck, if he won the award, he'd just end up giving the cash prize away anyway.

Christmas Eve Services

Looking for a church where you and your family can celebrate Christmas? Check out the Christmas Eve services that are being offered at Christ's Church of the Valley in Royersford, PA!

John 666: Don't Leave

That's the official name of this year's Pennsylvania Christian Teen Convention (PCTC) theme:


John 666: Don't Leave. The description given on the official PCTC website (mypctc.com) includes the following:

• John 6:66-69 "From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. 67 Then Jesus said to the twelve, "Do you also want to go away?" 68 But Simon Peter answered Him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 "Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
  
• John 6:66 represents the saddest verse in the Bible. Many who came to know Jesus decided that what He asked of them was to much to handle and the deserted Him, never to walk with Him again. The question Jesus has for us is the same one Jesus asked the 12 after the others left Him - will you also Go away?

PCTC has been a conference that the youth ministry at my church, Christ Church of the Valley, has been attending for years. Teenagers and youth leaders alike look forward to the wisdom and insight that is offered through speakers, worship, workshops, and bonding time. I attended my first conference as a student in my senior year of high school (2005) and have returned each year since as a youth leader for middle school girls.

I'm inspired and encouraged each year by the sermons, workshops, and themes that are addressed at PCTC. Oddly enough, every year without fail, I recall my heart burning with passion when listening to an inspirational man or woman talk to students about their journeys with Jesus. I often react by touching my chest and thinking, "Here comes that feeling again. I know I could do this one day."

Two years ago, after hearing a young woman deliver a phenomenal presentation to teenage girls about body image, I was hopeful that I, too, could perhaps speak at PCTC. I remember leaving the conference last year professing to my middle school girlfriends, "I'm doing it. I'm leading a workshop next year." Regardless of when or how it could happen, I knew it would be an incredible experience and opportunity to set a foot in the door for speaking engagements.

Just a few days ago, I contacted my old youth pastor, Matt Silver, who serves on the leadership board of PCTC. Remembering a conversation that we had a few years prior, I serenly asked him (via facebook, of course) if there was any chance that I could possibly lead a workshop; no expectations, of course. To my surprise, he immediately answered the message with contact information for someone further involved in the selection process; Greg Smedley! Greg told me he has "one last spot to fill" and informed me that if I fill out a leader questionnaire with some information about the workshop I'm hoping to lead, I should be good!

I couldn't believe it! What an opportunity! And to think, what if I didn't ask?

Needless to say, I'm busy praying and thinking over topics that are of student interest. I've got a few ideas in mind, some specifically for girls and one just for sponsors. I've thought about issues concerning sharing one's faith, gossip, identity, relationships, and building relationships with teenagers. I'll be hard at work next youth group time collecting answers from students. If any of you readers have ideas, I'd love for you to share them!

When thinking of this PCTC experience, I'm reminded of the verse in Ephesians 5:15-17 that reads, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. "

I definitely want to make sure that I'm making the most of every opportunity as I'm searching for God's will for my life. I belive that one way of being wise is learning that it never hurts to ask about opportunities; after all, I'd rather risk asking "a silly question" than miss an opportunity that could lead to greater things. I think many would be surprised at just how many opportunities are waiting for people passionate enough to reach out.

I can't wait to explore what else is out there!

The F Word.

I used to be inspired by the word future.

So much lies within the future.
There are so many possibilities!
Dreams can be accomplished!
Anything is possible!

Now, a senior at Albright, I loathe hearing, thinking, or speaking the word. It's all everyone talks about. "Oh, you're a senior, what are you doing next year?" "Oh, ready for the real world?" "What are you future plans?"

In fact, Adam's restricted my use of the F word around him. I think he finds it appauling.

In a desperate frenzy to try and fill in the blank that lies at the end of my life equation come May 24th, 2009, I've found myself CONSTANTLY thinking about the future. [Will I be a teacher? Will I be in ministry? Where will I live? How often will I move? Will I change my job? How often? Will I ever travel? Where? When? How?] You see, for so long (so long being 16 years of my educational career thus far), I've been able to solve my "what's next equation" with a new semester schedule, a listing of classes, or a new club that I'm hoping to join. My "what's next" question has always been answered, as long as I was returning to school. Now, approaching graduation and not sure of what to study in graduate school, I'm faced to make a decision farthest from my most adored "career" yet; student life.

Thinking about the possibility of work, living arrangements, and marriage, I'm overwhelmed with postulating ideas of how to pursue my passions and interests while upholding the value of my family, friendships, and relationship. Not positive that I can promise a commitment greater than a year's time, I'm searching for experience in any of my areas of interest to help me focus my direction of vocation. In preparation for the months' experiences that lie ahead, I've been constructing several resumes; one geared towards teaching, one geared towards ministry opportunities, one geared towards public speaking venues...it doesn't help that generally, I have a resume with over four pages of experiences, extra-cirriculars, and skills! (Okay, so maybe it does help, it's just a lot of work!)

So far, here are some of the [F-----] options that I'm considering:

• Traditional teaching in a school district K-6th grade. I'll be graduating with my elementary education certification after completing my student teaching in January in the Reading School District (5th and 6th graders). I'm eagerly awaiting this experience to contrast it with several of my other interested career aspirations. If I enjoy my inner-city experience, I'll look to apply to similar placements. By teaching in a title once school district (Reading, Philadelphia, Norristown), I can collect sign-on stipens and "loan forgiveness" benefits. Danger: teaching (especially inner-city) calls for a very high burn out rate.
• Teach for America, an Americore sponsored program. Again, considering my passion and gift of teaching, I'll be completing my application for Teach for America, a two year program that places corps members in some of the most educationally underprivledged areas across the country. Because of my close ties to Collegeville, PA, I've requested to be placed in the Camden/Philadelphia region. This program requires a two year commitment (risky, I'm aware) with education requirements during the summer. The program provides employees with stipen, living, and transitional benefits. Loan forgiveness and scholarships towards graduate schools/higher education are also available.
  
• An Intervarsity Campus Ministry internship is another highly attractive option. Greatly influenced and involved with my campus ministry through college, I've learned of the significance of students owning their faith when approaching adulthood. Many aspects of becoming an Intervarsity staff member attract me; its flexibility, room for creativity, opportunity for speaking engagements and conference planning, and close relations with college life. I could be placed at a variety of campuses in Eastern Pennsylvannia, including my current instition. Unfortunately, the internship is unpaid, meaning that I'd need to find an additional job to help support my living needs. Fortunately, I look forward to the possibility of getting a job related to working at a college (my next bullet). The internship is one year long, an encouraging feature; and if nothing else, it will be a great opportunity to continue challenging my faith.
  
• A College Admissions Counselor has been a job that I've been interested to explore since my discovered passion to inspire students to attend Albright as an student ambassador. Knowing my excitement to offer hope, excitement, and opportunities to prospective students, I'm confident that my skills and experience as a tour guide, blogger, overnight host, and conference speaker for Albright overqualifies me for any admissions counselor position at any institution. Albright, of course, is an institution that I'm considering applying to (much depends on if I pursue the Intervarsity internship), yet other institutions offer tuition remission and tuition exchange programs where, if you work at the institution, you can take graduate classes for FREE! Thus, I'm considering employment at other institutions, like Eastern University, which offer possible graduate programs of my interest (not that I can choose just one, yet!). I'll be meeting with a current admissions counselor come January to work through these opportunities.
• Finally, I'd love any job where I can exercise my LOVE OF PUBLIC SPEAKING. Out of all my dreams and passions, I know that speaking to crowds is something I absolutely adore and want to be part of my f-----. Whether speaking about Albright College or speaking Truth to children, teenagers, or young adults, I cannnot ignore my fascination or talent with such a gift. I've contacted one organization, Campus Outreach Services, to gain additional information about possibilities with their programs (thanks, April!), and have entertained my thoughts about a few additional options. Regardless of profession, I'll always be looking for opportunities to speak at events. I'll be pursuing Toastmasters International, a public speaking and leadership organization, for further opportunities as well.

And yet, to think, this is only the beginning! Who knows, one of these options may not even be the one that I'll fall into come May. And so, I've been challenging myself to not occupy my mind too frequently with thoughts and plans of the future. Known as one to "plan and organize" (gotta love those ESFJs), it's very difficult for me to not try and "plan every option" while knowing I'm only a few months away from a completely different lifestyle. I've realized that with so many passions and gifts, I'm driven towards many different professions and opportunities, and I have a lifetime to experience them. This year has been all about trust God with the end of equation, while learning to not get so wrapped up in the future that I can't enjoy the joy of the present. A few verses remind me of how to direct my thoughts about the future:

1. Proverbs 16:3
   Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.
   
2. Proverbs 16:9
   In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.
   
3. Proverbs 19:21
   Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.

It does not take much for me to suspect that I'll be revisiting this topic soon. I promise to keep you posted on the above propositions. And of course, if any of you have advice or futher organizations, placements, opportunities to consider post graduation, I'd love to hear about them! I'm exciting for these next steps, as nerve-wracking as they can sometimes seem. But for now, remind me to focus on the PRESENT while being mindful about the F word.

Blogging is HARD.

I've realized that I'm not very great at this skill of "blogging." Seeing that I haven't blogged since, oh, October, I've taken note to how inconvenient it feels to blog. It's always easier to write my thoughts in a journal where I don't have to worry about spell check or if the message that I'm presenting through my writing is offensive. Often, I find that when I sit to write a blog, I'm spending minutes more than I imagined reviewing and revising my work.

Is that how blogging is supposed to feel?

I've regretted not blogging for awhile. I've often thought about throwing up a new story or an idea, but have been too embarrassed by the wide gap that separates my previous "blogging frenzy" with another wasted web page on the web. Oh well-I admit-I'm giving in. Now on Christmas break, I believe that I've found time to write about my thoughts and I'm anxious to do so, so here I am, once again.

I've thought about changing my blog to write about seasonal topics, for example, my experience that will soon be approaching with student teaching. Yet, I'm afraid that even with such an ambition, I'll once again resort to negligence. I'm searching for ways to discipline myself to write, but I can't help but notice that when I'm limited with my time because of my commitment to my studies and activities at school, I'm over too overwhelmed, exhausted, and preoccupied to dedicate time to establishing a "web-friendly MJ."

And then, of course, I can't help but to admit the benefits that come from blogging: the feeling of accomplishment when sharing sincere thoughts with an audience or the reality of self-reflection that emulates when recording thoughts, feelings, or confessions, to name a few. Not to mention, one can gain a great vocabulary and strength in writing skills, style, and voice from blogging. I say that it's easier to journal, yet sometimes, I find myself neglecting that as well! Thoughts are too precious to be forgotton or sometimes, too inventious to not be shared.

So, for all you experienced bloggers out there, I'd love to hear your thoughts. How does blogging become a priority of yours? It is scheduled? Expected? Do you blog in the morning or at night? Randomly? Perhaps I'll work to exercise some of your suggestions. This blogging exercise is a personal challenge for my self growth, and so, I look forward to sharing that growth with others. I admire bloggers like my boyfriend, Adam Flora, and am inspired by his commitment to consistency. Perhaps one day, I'll master the efforts of blogging. Until then, I apologize for any frustrations with the inconsistent blogging spurts and topics!

Looking forward to attracting an audience once again!

Chick-Fil-A + 2 Amazing Girls = Medicine for an Blissful Afternoon

Today I had the pleasure of meeting up to lunch with two of the most inspirational young women I know. It's incredible what a small lunch date can do to change your day.

These women are powerful in their walk with Christ. Their both on a mission to fulfill God's will within their lives. While April raved about her internship at CCV, her success with her recent goals that she set for herself, and interest in living on-campus at Eastern, Mandy talked about her excitement for her campus ministry, small group, and her options upon graduation.

It was such a relief to chat with two girls who understood how it felt to not be sure of what the future holds for us or to not be sure what exactly God's voice tells us when we're trying to make decisions.

Together we spent just short of two hours laughing with each other about our silliness, empathizing with one another over our challenges, and encouraging each other within our journeys through life.

I'm so blessed to have these two girls within my life. Whether we see teaching, ministry, or non-profits in our future, I know that together we'll be shining.

MEET C4: Sarah Wolf

She's spunky.

She's not afraid to speak her mind.

She's soooo one of my best friends.

Meet Sarah Wolf.

I met Sarah last year when she was a freshmen at Albright. While meeting her at one of the first Albright Christian Fellowships meetings, we immediately clicked, and I made it a personal mission to "take Sarah under my wing"-Junior to Freshmen. As Sarah and I began to hang out more and more, she began to teach me so much more about myself than I believed I was teaching her as a junior. I thought, "this can't be right? I'M THE JUNIOR!"

Ironically, (or not so ironically) Sarah is now one of my four apartment mates. Sarah and I now joke that her major contribution to my learning involve her "domestic skills" and her ability to "teach me to be domestic" before it's too late! Believe me, I appreciate her skills and talents IMMENSLY. (You should taste her cooking!)


Beyond food, however, Sarah has taught me many more valuable truths that I'm not sure I would be able to realize if I never had met her. In fact, some of the things that I love best about Sarah is her outspoken personality. Unlike myself, Sarah is NEVER afraid to speak her mind-and I LOVE HER for it! Sarah's ability to stick to a decision or a passion point motivates me and her bold personality has taught me how to aim to do the same for myself. Beyond her speaking talents, however, Sarah has the soft heart of a loving, compassionate, and generous individual. Her care and concern for others is inspirational and encouraging to those around her.

Sarah's that sort of friend who I can do anything and everything with. Whether it be cooking together and telling each other about our days, going on Walmart trips at midnight, crying to each other in our living room, or taking naps and sleeping through meetings, I've got a true friend in Sarah. She's someone who I'm not afraid to tease when we're "fighting, " laugh with about our stupidity, or push-over when I'm sitting on the couch (believe me, she does WORSE things to me)!

One of the aspects of my and Sarah's friendship that I admire most is our similarity in relationships. Like myself, Sarah is involved in a long-distance relationship with a boy that she is very much in love with. Sarah and I frequently find ourselves talking about our relationships; laughing about the boys, funny things we've done, mistakes we've made, fights we've had, ways we've acted..we can go on forever. I've never before had a girlfriend that I could talk to about my relationship with Adam. As I've watched Sarah grow in her relationship with John, I've been able to learn and recognize things about my own relationship that I want to better improve; how I treat Adam for example, or how I can try and understand things from his perspective. I love hearing Sarah share conversations about her and John's book discussions. Knowing that her and John like to read through books together encourages me of their desire as a couple to learn more about God together.

Sarah is constantly growing. I frequently see her mozying around the apartment with her "metal sheathed" Bible and C.S. Lewis books. When discussing pieces of scripture or biblical topics, she frequently shares a viewpoint very different than my own. I'm so grateful to have Sarah in my life and even more, to call her one of my sisters in Christ.


She's an out-of-this world, no-one get in her way, nonconformist sort of girl. She's incredible.

She will be in my wedding-I mean, planning my wedding one day.

Sarah Wolf, you're the sister I never had.

I love you. :)

MEET C4: Nadine Varty

She’s one of the primary reasons why I stayed at Albright, even after being unsure of my acceptance months into freshmen year. After meeting her through a women’s bible study group, she’s gone from an accepting friend with open arms to my roommate for the past two years.

Meet Nadine Varty.

One of the first and greatest memories that I share with Nadine occurred during a Friday night in Freshmen year. We both decided to attend on of the Domino Players’ productions that night and cap off our experience with the “classic” girly sleepover. After the show, we headed off to Wawa to get some snacks (I specifically remember grabbing some ice-cream) and lost track of time as we chatted into the night’s hours about our families, friends, and college experience. I remember waking up at noon the next morning (and Nadine explaining how that’s fairly common because of the lack of light that shines through the slit in the Walton basement window.) Since then, we’ve been attached at the hip. We’ve done all sorts of things from studying scripture together, praying for each other, supporting each other at events, staying in touch over the summer (and during Nadine’s study aboard to Scotland), and now, spending each day together as roommates!

Nadine Varty is certainly one special young woman. Grounded in her faith, she is one that has inspired my walk with Jesus. Nadine's life has been no "cake-walk," yet her struggles have only helped her grow stronger. Her love and mercy for others has opened my eyes to change my attitudes and treatment of others. Nadine’s stories of hope and joy gravitate me when I’m overwhelmed or overburdened. She is one who is always willing to help, listen, offer advice, and put herself before others. There has never been a time where I couldn’t feel comfortable turning to Nadine for a few comforting moments.

Some additional favorite characteristics that I love about Nadine include her sense of humor, kind-spirit, good intentions, dedication, levels of commitment, understanding of self, and priority of family and friends. Nadine’s joy for life shows her constant stride to learn about her identity in God, always thirsting for more and thoroughly enjoying those special moments of “God time” that she gets to share with her creator.

Nadine Varty, thank you for being such a wonderful best friend. You’ve helped me to understand the importance of friendship and the priority it holds in my life. You’ve been one of the greatest encouragers and a friend who’s always cheered for me. Nadine, it’s been such a joy to watch you grow over the past three and a half years, and looking back on my college experience, I look as our friendship as a fairy-tale. I know that our time together here is the just the start of a friendship that will carry us into Heaven.

Thank you for being all that a best friend can be.

I love you. :)

IMPORTANT POST: HELP!

It has recently been brought to my attention that there is a family in need of some community help! Jim and Sue Umstead, lifelong Perkiomen residents, are being forced to sell their family's farmhouse on nearly 10 acres to build a community park! Ironically, there are plenty of parks already located near the area; Plank Road Park, the Township Building playground/park, the fire-station's open fields, the basketball courts/fields at Cranberry, and Perkiomen Valley School Districts' fields and parks. Jim and Sue are members of our Christ's Church of the Valley family, and in response to this unfair treatment, we are joining together to challenge the township.

If you are interested in reading more information about this story or how you can help, please redirect yourself to the link below. There's still time to make a difference!

Keep on pressin' on!

http://www.helpoutyourneighbor.com/

MEET C4: Ms. Teira "T" Jeffcoat

I call her "T."

T for Teira.

She is one of the most gorgeous young women I know. In fact, I frequently tell her that she should be a model! Her beauty, however, is more captivating than any physical feature can offer. Teira Jeffcoat has the inner-beauty of a young woman chasing fast after God's own heart.

I remember meeting Teira two years ago at our campus' Christian Fellowship (ACF). In fact, it was the first meeting in which Teira and I sat down to talk. Since that first get-together, I remember bumping into Teira in the Mohn residence hall when she would be reading her Bible late at night on the third floor. Frequently, her and I would meet on the ground floor to read together, pray together, and chat about each other's lives.

While Teira was still a freshmen, my friend Nadine and I (to be featured in the next post) sought her out as a roommate for "C4." We wanted her to become a part of a friendship that would carry us into our finals years of college-and beyond.

Having T as a roommate has been one of the greatest blessings for my personal growth and walk with Jesus. We frequently find ourselves stumbling into "serious conversations" with each other-conversations about faith, about what we're reading, about our fellowship, our actions, ourselves, boys, courting, self-confidence, etc., etc., etc. We can find ourselves talking for hours. When we're not chatting, T's great company for watching movies, shopping, and "craftying." She's always got the greatest fashion advice (especially when she saves my life by telling me my legs are blue because of blue jean dye), her "jokes" can have you laughing for hours, and her smile is one of true happiness.

T is a one-in-a-million type of friend; someone whom you can only find few and far between, someone who is enthusiastic, caring, and genuine. Some of the characteristics that I admire most about T are her patience, discipline, great listening skills, mercy, enthusiasm, loyalty, and compassion for others. She's intelligent, trust-worthy, and dedicated to her commitments.

What I love most about T, however, is her unique sense of individuality that she carries for herself. Teira Jeffcoat is a woman defining herself by the love God carries for her. She's confident, yet humble; outgoing, yet striving for independence; she's sassy, and yet sensitive. Teira Jeffcoat knows who she is and isn't scared to show herself to the world. Even if she would argue about that compliment with me, she can't argue the fact that she strives each day to better understand herself through scripture, prayer, and a hard, fast sprint towards God's open arms for her.

Teira Jeffcoat, you're an inspiration. I hope that one day my daughter will transform into a beautiful woman just like yourself. You know your priorities and you're committed to what matters most to you. From you I've learned the fruit that comes when understanding one's self through God's perspective, and have strived to pursue such fruit myself. I'll always remember you-not only as a roommate, a legacy of C4, but most important, as a sister of Christ.

We've got a lot of memories to build together.

Love, MJ

MEET C4

There's a saying that goes something like: "I came to college to find friends...but I came back with sisters."

I never thought that saying would hold so true-I don't have a sister and I'm not even in a sorority! Yet, the friendships that I've made with my beautiful roommates have proven truth beyond what I first believed about the above statement.

We call ourselves "C4."

You see, for the past two years, we've lived in the Albright on-campus apartments, known as the "Woods" for its somewhat-distant "woodsy" atmosphere away from main campus. We believe (only slightly biased, of course) that our apartment's number-C4-is the absolute most phenomenal location of the Woods. Closest to the "path" that winds to campus and the laundry room facility, we've got a prime balcony spot open to the other apartment complexes and some of the best neighbors around. We love our "C4" title and we flaunt it! We've got a HUGE homemade C4 banner, roommate pictures, and our own theme song!

In reality though, it's not the "C4" name that we love.

The reason why C4 has become such an affectionate name in my vocabulary is because of the wonderful women living in C4 that have become such an influential part of my life. These girls have become, as quoted, not only friends, but sisters, and someday, future bridesmaids.

I want to take the next few posts to introduce you to three young women who embody the splendor of true friendship. I hope that through this "C4 Series," you'll catch a glimpse at some of the most inspiring, Godly women I know. They've changed my life-and forever will be close to my heart. Nadine, Teira, and Sarah, this series is for you.

A Good Feeling

And I thought I was getting away from CCV with school!

Let me explain.

Really, what I mean is-that it's funny how God can prepare us for certain seasons in our lives by the experiences that He allows us to have.

You see, this entire summer, I worked with a staff that organized youth group services for both junior high and high school teenagers-about 150-200 of them to be exact. Each service was planned to the "T." From a welcome to worship to the message and a closing, each person involved had a role, knew their role, and as a team, we practiced our roles.

Last Sunday, August 31st, I said "goodbye" to my summer internship. However, what I quickly realized tonight-at my college's Intervarsity Christian Fellowship meeting-was that I'm NOT escaping the "oh-so familiar service format."

You see, for one of the FIRST TIMES EVER, "ACF" (Albright Christian Fellowship-Intervarsity Fellowship) held a meeting that contained ALL of the above elements-in an organized way! It was exciting to see God work as leaders set up the projector, ran through the powerpoint slides, hosted the night, presented the message, and teamed up to take "ownership" of sign-up lists and handouts! Best of all-as we promised our members-our meeting took no more than an hour-we were there from 8pm-9pm! I love being able to keep within the time allotment for the respect of the members that the organization cares for.

No, CCV style has yet to leave me. (Quite frankly, I don't think it EVER will.) I've learned a lot from my internship this summer-and I can't wait to continue to apply the things that I've learned to expand the ministry on Albright's campus.

God's got a crazy way of making things work.
What an encouraging night!

When is enough ENOUGH?

It is entirely too easy to allow one's self to become tied up in the phenomenon of doing.

As I was wrapping up my night tonight (yes, it's about 1am now-ignore the posting time, it's wrong), I was thinking about how I wish I didn't always find myself "doing work" until late-or early-hours into the morning.

I mean, one would think, that with only three classes and a handful of extra-curricular organizations that a young girl would NOT need to be up until 1am doing work!

I believe, my problem is, that I don't know when to stop. I could easily have stopped doing work when I returned from the gym this evening at 9:30pm. I could have easily decided to spend time with my roommates, watching TV, knowing that I have only one class at 1pm tomorrow and have plenty of time beforehand to complete work, yet-I made a different choice.

Instead, I chose to spend an hour or so working on the proposal of a senior thesis. I spent time sending emails, making phone calls, organizing my planner, reading for class, etc, etc, etc, until I find that I'm sitting here at 1am STILL wondering of what I can complete before I am too tired that I can only pass out when permitting my head to hit the pillow.

When is enough enough?

One of my frustrations about the school year is the notion of knowing that "there will always be more work that I can do." Whether it be readings, papers, preparing for tests, organizing my schedule, re-organizing my schedule-I always will have "busy work" that can consume my time-up to 1am and beyond! What I'm beginning to realize is that just because I'll always have work that can last me up until this late hour doesn't mean I have to try and fill those time slots with work. In fact, I'd prefer not too. (Isn't it ironic how we discover these realizations in our senior year?)

During orientation, I heard a speaker talk about the importance of time management. In her lecture, the speaker talked about "Joe," a football player who was perceived to "always be out" every evening. In fact, he was out so much that when he made the Dean's List his first semester, his friends asked him how he managed to hack the computer files to change his grades (disbelieving that he ever studied). To his friends' surprise, Joe shared how he spent the sporadic hours that he had in the morning and throughout his day to complete his work so that he could spend time hanging out with friends in the evening.

Brilliant.

I want to be just like Joe.

Knowing that this semester is one of the last chances that I have to truly work on the friendships that I've been blessed with here at Albright, I want to take as many opportunities as possible to meet my friends where they're at and share life with them. I don't want my evenings to be consumed with school-work, but with conversations and memories of individuals who matter far more greatly than do grades on a paper.

That's a harder reality to swallow than it is to type. You see, my aspiration to be like Joe isn't about the importance of time-management, it's about the reality of prioritizing work verses people.

Am I more passionate about serving my school-work?

Or am I more passionate about serving people?

I know my answer.

I pray that now, I can show it.

Watch out Joe, you're not the only one who plans to be out this semester while making the Dean's List. :)

I'm alive, I promise!

I bet you all thought that I was giving up on this blog-posting, hunh?

Truth be told, I've had a pretty hard last few weeks.

With little time to myself, a maximum number of transitions, and the felt pressure to emotionally disconnect with people from one environment so that I can mentally prepare myself to reconnect with people from another environment, I've become ignorant to my blogger reputation.

I wish I hadn't.

For the past few weeks, as I've been wrapping up my internship at Christ's Church of the Valley, as I've dove head-deep into my final year of orientation at Albright College, and as I've moved myself and my roommates into my on-campus apartment for my year, I've spotted myself quickly-and easily-confessing that "I don't have time to blog."

But honestly, who really has time to blog?

If it's not transitioning from an internship or moving back into school, it'll be starting a new job or finding ways to restructure my schedule to fit the needs of my family in the future. It's easy to excuse one's self for "not having time" with the hustle and bustle of college living, however, it's not the "college living" that restricts my time-it's ANYTHING! I'm always going to have to learn to deal with the difficulty of time management.

That includes holding myself accountable for the responsibilities that weave within those different transitions.

So, I'm making a re-commitment to blog. Knowing the time that is necessary to transition into my "school mode," I do not foresee my blogging activity exceeding a few (perhaps two?) times a week. However, also knowing that its a great way to keep in contact with family and friends (as well as to network), I hope that I can increase my goal before the end of the semester.

Although the topics may shift a big (a little less about ministry and a little more about the anxieties of juggling college-living), I'm excited about the ways in which I can continue to reflect upon my growth as as individual through this writing opportunity.

Won't you join me (again) in this adventure?

I look forward to posting again soon!

Last Words

Last night I had the opportunity to preach my last sermon of my internship on my "Last Words"-a student ministries sermon series in which each of us interns were given the opportunity to preach on what we consider our most important topic.

As said in my sermon, "my last words, the words that I believe affect the center of how every individual lives his or her life, is to love yourself exactly as God created you to be."

I chose the topic knowing it is the most difficult-and yet, most pressing-topic that God challenges me to accept. If I were to die tomorrow and I had to choose one topic to speak on, without a doubt in my mind, I would choose to speak on the importance of discovering your God-given identity and loving to be that person.

Here are a few of the main points from my sermon:

"Because I feel-and maybe you can relate- in a world that is filled with people telling me that I need to be attractive and intelligent to succeed, in a world that is filled with competition, achievement, recognition, status, and reputation; in a world that is filled with people trying to tell me who I am and who I should be when I’m trying to figure that out on my own, its so easy to wish I was someone else and forget who God tells me I am...and how God purposely has created me exactly as I am."

Ephesians 2:10 says this: For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which he has prepared in advance for us to do. In the Greek, workmanship actually translates to work, a work-piece. or the result of work. In fact, a synonm for workmanship is mankind as God's creation."

"...So we God back to this idea about how we're God's creation, and just like a 21 year old girl would never dream of throwing out her elementary school art projects (even after 11+ years) because she created it and it's something that is too special, too important, and too treasured, God could never dream of us-his art work-thinking that we're not good enough or wishing we were someone different."

"You see, when God looks at us-when he calls us his workmanship-the result of work, it's as if he's standing on top of a chair, looking down at his finished art and saying "it is made in my image, and it is very good." You see, God doesn't see us in our moments of insecurities, or frustrations or anxiousness. When God calls us his workmanship, He sees us in light of the big picture. "

[Referring to 1 Corinthians 12: 14-19] "Isn't it obvious that a hand is not the same as a foot is not the same as an ear is not the same as an eye. I mean, we can all agree that they don't look the same or serve the same purpose or have the characteristics. So then, if we're like the parts of the body in this passage, then how can we compare a Melissa Jaworski to a Miley Cyrus to an April Tatta to an Adam Flora? How can we compare a hand to a foot to an ear to an eye? Isn't it obvious that they don't look the same, serve the same purpose, or have the same characteristics? You are the only you that God has ever and will ever create. It's impossible to compare one part of the body to another because no part of the body is like another. God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be."

"God has created you to do great things. So as you take the next 5, 7, or 10 years to figure out this question of 'who am I?' know that you are created with specific qualities for a specific purpose. Know that if you accept your identity, you will become more famous than any top 10 popularity contest this world has to offer. But you can't be good at who you are until you stop trying to be good at who you're not. So love who God created you exactly to be."

Playing House

I always knew I wanted to be a mom some day.


I'm quickly learning that I'm very, very fortunate that some day is still a good time away.


This past week, I've had the pleasure of stepping in as a "house-mom" for a family while the parents are on vacation. (We all discussed that neither "nanny" nor "babysitter" is a cool name.) It didn't take long for me to discover that although I love children and teenagers, I still have very much to learn about parenting.





Here are three key insights that I'm making sure to tuck under my belt:



1. No matter how many times I'll clean the house, it will never be clean enough.

Knowing that the parents of the family that I'm sitting are returning home in a few days, I thought it would be wise to get a head start on a "house-wide" clean up. I spent the better part of this morning running dishes in the dishwasher, loading and folding baskets of laundry, emptying the trash cans, and picking up clothes, games, and "stuff" around the house. In a matter of three hours later, I found the house (again) covered in (this time) stuffed animals, food wrappings, and soccer gear. So much for my morning! I'll save the house-wide clean-up for the day they return!



2. Parents spend a lot of time "being parents."

Kids and teenagers in the United States are BUSY, and so are their moms and dads! It sure takes a lot of time for parents to get kids ready for camps in the morning, run teens to and from sports practices, find ways to entertain, feed, discipline, guide, teach, love, etc, etc. ETC! I'm afraid it never stops!



3. Being a parent means giving up a lot of self time.

This is definitely the insight that most helps me understand that I am FAR from ready to settle down and have kids! I've always known that I didn't want to have children until I was 30-did I mention that has now changed to 35? Just kidding-I'm not really wrapped up in ages. I do know though, that I need a lot of time to experience life for myself-discovering my passions, learning how to live on my own (before I live for others), traveling, and falling more in love each day with my future husband (I know, I'm a romantic). Parents certainly sacrifice a lot of personal time and comfort to best provide for their children.



Parenting is some job! I certainly appreciate my parents so much for the time, dedication, and love that they've poured into me throughout the years. If you're a parent reading today, YOU ARE SUCH A BLESSING TO YOUR CHILD'S LIFE! I'm sure it's easy to forget that when caught up in the busyness of schedules, meals, and weekend sleepovers. You are some of the most tangible vessels God has to reach His children. What a responsibility...and an honor!

Influence

There are many times that I wonder what other people think of me.

You know,

If they think I'm "cool"..

If I'm smart...

Wise...

Hard-working...

Creative...

Dedicated...

The list can go on.

I frequently, sometimes too frequently, find myself asking the question "how am I influencing others around me?"

Today, I had the privilege to find out some answers to that very question.

The 5 CCV interns and I had a very special privilege to attend lunch with Ben Foulke and Frank Chiapperino today at the Cheesecake Factory in honor of it being one of the last times we'll ever all spend the summer together. While there, Frank Chiapperino, our supervisor, coach, mentor-surprised us each with a list of encouraging thoughts and comments from students and volunteers. As we read our lists to each other, it was beautiful to witness the unraveling of each personality-and how all 5 of the personalities clicked together to complete the puzzle we teasingly call "BAAAM."

Through sharing, it was very clear that Adam's strength and fearlessness shine through his passion for ministry, Alex's talent chimes off his guitar, Brendon's big heart melts with compassion, and April's encouragement and enthusiasm spread contagiously. I, to my surprise, collected a variety of comments reflecting my intelligence, leadership, and "well-roundedness."

No longer did I have to wonder; ways in which I influence others were staring right back at me on the paper.

On a positive note, I was very satisfied with what I saw.
Proud, even.

Someone once told me that you'll never realize the full potential to which you can influence an individual.

Someone else helped me realize that within this summer, I've helped connect to 1000+ children and youth.

I wonder of the influence that I've helped impress on each of their hearts.
Have I led them to question who Jesus is more?
Have I encouraged or inspired them in their walk with God?
Do they see me as a role model or a mentor?

As I reflect on my experience this summer, I know I'll hold tight to the simple white sheet of plain computer paper that carries a heartbeat of its own through the love poured out by others' praise. I'll never let that go.

Thank you, so much, if you've been one of those to offer your praise, compliments, or encouragement to me in the past few months. You don't realize just how far your compassion has reached. It's words like those on that white paper that help remind me of my influence on others.

I hope that soon you'll hear a return piece of praise that compliments your personality.
Maybe you too will receive a simple white sheet.
Words like those aren't meant to be silenced.

I've got a vision

I had a vision today.

...about what a children's ministry could be like.

Kids could be greeted with a wide variety of "walk in activities"
Kids could become energized by the large group stage games, mixers, and ice-breakers
Kids could worship to God by song, dance, and motions-or any combination of the three!
Kids could feel as if they're watching a story unfold-like a movie-by watching live drama and acting of stories that relive bible verses, themes, and scenarios
Kids would enjoy the unique opportunity of small group time to understand what it means to know God and to be a Christ follower.


What if kids would love to bring their friends to church?

What if kids started to want to help leading small groups, help acting in the dramas, and help leading worship because of the joy that it's brought them?

What if children's childlike faith began to become alive?

It's happening. God's moving-fast. He now just needs people who share the vision.

"And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me." [Matthew 18:5]

Doubt

Why are there so many people hurting in this world...?

...and why can't I help them?

Let me change that.


Why are there so many people hurting in my world, and why do I fail to help them?

I wish there was a way that I could help make every marriage and relationship perfect, that I could help make every family love each other and spend time together, that I could help every teenager and young adult value themselves...

I wish I felt like I was actually doing something.

But I'm doubting myself.

I'm doubting God's timing, I'm doubting God's promises, I'm doubting God's work through me, and I'm doubting the fruit that I can't see being planted right now because I'm too busy worrying over if I'm tossing enough seeds.

What is it about doubt that just...sucks so much?

John 20:27 says "stop doubting and believe." Perfect memory verse, yet much easier said than done! When will I actually learn to use the word of God as offense to questions and feelings like these? When am I going to stop worrying about doubting myself so that I can believe in God? When will I truly live out the reality that my life isn't about me, but is about serving Him?

"Stop doubting and believe."

[Okay, okay, okay...breathe.]

Although slowly-sometimes, very slowly, I'm learning that God allows for experiences, conversations, and people to interrupt the "perfect plans" of our live so that we can be reminded-again and again and again and again-who ACTUALLY is in control. Sometimes-most times-it is so easy to feel frustrated by a "lack of performance" to help people. Many times, I quickly become discouraged at these moments because of my weaknesses and incompetency. Yet, these are the beautiful moments where-if we believe-we can trust God to handle our situations in His perfect timing.

I'm learning.

Slowly but surely.

"Stop doubting and believe."