Summer Nights.

It is officially the last night of summer...and as I sit reminiscing about summer, I can't help but think of the beautiful Toyon Bay on Catalina Island. It was such a positive experience in my life and I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to work at such a wonderful place. The picture above is an example of one of my daily sights. Such a great place. 

Being a summer camp counselor has taught me many lessons that I hope to continue throughout this school year: selflessness, importance of taking risks, open-mindedness, patience and understanding.

As I embark on another service organization, being a student advisor, I need to keep these ideas in my mind and on my hear. I have the ability to affect many lives in a positive manner and I hope that I can at least do that for one person this year. I have been blessed with active and willing residents who aren't afraid to try something new! Perfect!

Tonight, I am praying for many things, but especially for the first day of school for many new students and returning students.

Here goes sophomore year! Wish me luck!

The Main Thing

The main thing in life is to keep the main thing the main thing.

The most important thing in life is to keep what's most important the most important.

And that is to live each day of your life, empowered by the Holy Spirit, according to the Way God, through Jesus, has given to us in the Bible.

Of course, it will be most important to know the Bible, so we know what is most important, and fashion our way of life accordingly.

Each day is a new scenario, and presents new decisions as to what to do and say to keep the main thing the main thing.

Our lives change, because we change, people around us change, family, community, and world events change, and require us to continually evaluate what is the main thing to say and do in order to keep the main thing the main thing.

Only one life to live

I will soon be past

And only what's done

For Christ will last.

Do all the good you can,

In every way you can,

To as many as you can,

As long as ever you can.

Being a Christian is: Doing the right thing when no one is watching.

*This is directly from the handwritten notes of the late Deleta Koontz, my grandmother.*

The Five Love Languages

Recently, I was suggested to read a book by Gary Chapman entitled, "The Five Love Languages". I received it in the mail today and immediately cracked it open to find out why my friend, Nik, found it so inspiring.

Although I haven't made huge strides in the 30 minutes I have been reading the book, I have discovered the FIRST love language: words of affirmation.

So, I challenge everyone to take on the challenge of professing words of encouragement and support. I Thessalonians states, "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."

SO DO IT.
 :) I will let you know of my other discoveries of love at a later time!

Every Second Counts

One of my goals of this new year is to pay it forward. In attempt to repay the many blessings I have received from others, I have decided to volunteer twice a week at the local nursing home called Twin Pines in Kirksville. Unfortunately, I have spent a lot of time in nursing homes and have developed a new found respect for those who work in nursing homes.

My first day helping the activities director consisted of helping residents get to the activities room, start a movie called "Every Second Counts", passing out snacks and drinks (as well as assisting with those who need it while eating), and lastly, returning the residents to their rooms. It was such an ironic day for me. First, it's funny to me that a movie is titled "Every Second Counts". Although I don't believe that a movie is necessarily a waste of time, it makes you more conscious of every minute you spend watching a hallmark-type movie. Second, these residents surely have something to say about the title alone. It is amazing to jump inside their lives for a while. Sure, some say they don't do much anymore...but they think, reminisce, and hope-something that people my age don't do much of. 


I guess I don't necessarily have anything profound to say. Walking into a nursing home was extremely sad and depressing...because my last encounters with one were not enjoyable at all. However, am I supposed to ignore that it exists just because it scares me? They are people with many needs and little family. The least I can do is ask how they are or smile at them. 


I guess facing some fears have some rewards...especially when the reward is a new 85 year old friend or two :)


Good night world!