This weekend I embarked on my first Millersville-affiliated spiritual retreat. It was seriously the best time I've had in a while. The Navigators (Navs for short) are a Christian group that is spread internationally on college campus and military bases. They also have missionaries in several countries around the world. I found out about Navs from a friend of mine this summer and attended the first meeting. I've been attending one of their weekly Bible Studies and have made it out to a few other Nav Nights as well.
After over a year of having zero Christian friends on campus, it is wonderful to finally know people who believe the same way I do and go to the same school. I truly believe this is just one more way of God showing me His faithfulness in my transfer.
So anyway, back to the weekend. I started out knowing umm, well maybe like 5 people on this trip; I now know a significantly larger amount. =) Millersville University and University of Maryland meet up each year for this retreat (sometimes they are joined by Rutgers and Bowie State, but not this year unfortunately). Believe me when I say, I had no idea what I was in for.
The weekend provided numerous occasions to laugh, love and learn. The messages and testimonies were solid and the people were completely genuine. The talent show on Saturday night was nothing but hilarious. It really gave me a chance to relax while getting to know some other awesome Christians and getting to spend some much needed time with God.
The word for me from the weekend was undoubtedly "trust." Every message, every small group, every devotional, that idea was there. It took me until the last few hours at camp to realize in what area exactly I needed to be more trusting. God spoke to me a lot in that final time. Although I don't always remember, I am graduating in May. I need to trust God that He has exactly the right path laid out for me. He also has the right person for me as well. That's the other area I need to be more trusting in. Thankfully, God has it all figured out so therefore, I don't need to. =)
Overall, the weekend was a blast. I am so happy I went on the Navs 2011 Fall Retreat. =)
10 October 2011
02 October 2011
Reading Prose
Yesterday (Friday Sept 30th) I read at another poetry reading at school. I'm in this club called the Creative Writers' Guild. It started up last semester and we meet every Tuesday night to talk about writing and share our work. Occasionally, we arrange a date with the Javateas on campus to have a poetry reading. Now, despite the title, it doesn't have to be poetry. Readers can sign up for a 5 minute time slot and fill it (or not fill it) with whatever they want basically.
This time, we had several people come out to read, but unfortunately not as many as last time. Several readers shared works from professional authors while others shared self-written pieces. We had a few people take up two (or three) time slots, but due to the lower number, it all worked out. It was a blast and great fun to hear people's work. I'm always amazed at the talent people have.
I decided to record myself sharing my 3 pieces of "prose ... with a poetic flare." Hopefully later in the year, I'll get to share it with my 6th graders, but for now, I'm sharing it with you.
The three pieces I read were entitled (in order): "Window in a Coffee Shop," "Paper," and "It's a Gift." Hopefully you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed sharing. =)
This time, we had several people come out to read, but unfortunately not as many as last time. Several readers shared works from professional authors while others shared self-written pieces. We had a few people take up two (or three) time slots, but due to the lower number, it all worked out. It was a blast and great fun to hear people's work. I'm always amazed at the talent people have.
I decided to record myself sharing my 3 pieces of "prose ... with a poetic flare." Hopefully later in the year, I'll get to share it with my 6th graders, but for now, I'm sharing it with you.
The three pieces I read were entitled (in order): "Window in a Coffee Shop," "Paper," and "It's a Gift." Hopefully you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed sharing. =)
29 September 2011
The Lampeter Fair
I went to the fair today. The last Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of September always bring about the Lampeter Fair. This year was like the 83rd year it's been going on. (Don't quote me on that number I might be off by a year or so). I think in my entire remembering of life, I only missed the fair one -- maybe two -- years. And I was devastated that I couldn't make it.
I don't know what the draw is of the Lampeter Fair. There are no rides, no fun activities for those older than 18 and it is extremely crowded. But still, everyone goes. It has that small town essence. There is familiarity and remnants of days gone by. Each year a little bit changes here and there, but basically it's the same fair that I've been going to since I was little.
The weekend before the fair, if you drive past the fairgrounds you can see the big green and yellow tents set up in the same formation as always. Two on one side of the arena and two on the other. They now have several other-colored tents that accompany the four "originals," but the staples are where they've always been. You can bank on what's inside them too. There are stands that have been around, again, for as long as I can remember -- in the same place! For instance, Grace Brethren Church is just inside on the left of the first tent on the right of the arena. The Herr's Potato Chips stand is in the same tent on the right like 4 spots down. On the other side of the arena in the first tent on the right side there are a bunch of tractors ... I could go on and on, but my point it is, it's still the same.
One thing that has changed a bit has been the food. There used to be two food stands plus the fire-hall dinner. Now there's four and the options have increased as well. But the milkshake line and funnel cake line are still as long as ever.
It's always muddy, always busy, and always fun. You can't slip through the fair without seeing someone you know, and most likely, you'll spend most of your time running into old acquaintances. I have a thousand memories of the fair and hope to make a few more in the years to come. So, if you're ever in Lancaster the last week of September, head over to the fair grounds for a time you probably won't forget. =)
I don't know what the draw is of the Lampeter Fair. There are no rides, no fun activities for those older than 18 and it is extremely crowded. But still, everyone goes. It has that small town essence. There is familiarity and remnants of days gone by. Each year a little bit changes here and there, but basically it's the same fair that I've been going to since I was little.
The weekend before the fair, if you drive past the fairgrounds you can see the big green and yellow tents set up in the same formation as always. Two on one side of the arena and two on the other. They now have several other-colored tents that accompany the four "originals," but the staples are where they've always been. You can bank on what's inside them too. There are stands that have been around, again, for as long as I can remember -- in the same place! For instance, Grace Brethren Church is just inside on the left of the first tent on the right of the arena. The Herr's Potato Chips stand is in the same tent on the right like 4 spots down. On the other side of the arena in the first tent on the right side there are a bunch of tractors ... I could go on and on, but my point it is, it's still the same.
One thing that has changed a bit has been the food. There used to be two food stands plus the fire-hall dinner. Now there's four and the options have increased as well. But the milkshake line and funnel cake line are still as long as ever.
It's always muddy, always busy, and always fun. You can't slip through the fair without seeing someone you know, and most likely, you'll spend most of your time running into old acquaintances. I have a thousand memories of the fair and hope to make a few more in the years to come. So, if you're ever in Lancaster the last week of September, head over to the fair grounds for a time you probably won't forget. =)
25 September 2011
The Reality of the Fairytale
I'm wondering ... what's the appeal of fairytales? I just finished watching A Cinderella Story and am just thinking through the logistics of it ...
I guess it's the whole good overcoming evil; the poor girl being rescued by the handsome well-to-do prince; and everyone living happily ever after. If you think about it, it's kind of the story of the Bible.
For years and years the Jews strayed from the Lord; even in today's world, we (as in all people) still stray, but through Jesus' death and resurrection, we have been rescued. The King of everything good and wonderful in the world has defeated evil ... for eternity! We who are poor in spirit, have nothing in the grand scheme of things, have been rescued by the Prince who has it all. In the end, worldly possessions will not matter. The only thing that matters is where our heart finds value. If we find it in the Lord then we will be forever with Him. Lastly, the Bible promises a happily ever after in heaven for those who believe.
So I guess that's the draw of the fairytale ... everyone's looking for their own, but what we don't always realize is that it's not an actual prince and princess story, but rather a King and His creation. Interesting ...
I find it humoring that these are the things I think of at 1am. =)
I guess it's the whole good overcoming evil; the poor girl being rescued by the handsome well-to-do prince; and everyone living happily ever after. If you think about it, it's kind of the story of the Bible.
For years and years the Jews strayed from the Lord; even in today's world, we (as in all people) still stray, but through Jesus' death and resurrection, we have been rescued. The King of everything good and wonderful in the world has defeated evil ... for eternity! We who are poor in spirit, have nothing in the grand scheme of things, have been rescued by the Prince who has it all. In the end, worldly possessions will not matter. The only thing that matters is where our heart finds value. If we find it in the Lord then we will be forever with Him. Lastly, the Bible promises a happily ever after in heaven for those who believe.
So I guess that's the draw of the fairytale ... everyone's looking for their own, but what we don't always realize is that it's not an actual prince and princess story, but rather a King and His creation. Interesting ...
I find it humoring that these are the things I think of at 1am. =)
19 September 2011
Busy-ness of Life
I'm realizing that life gets busier by the moment and although I might beg for it to stop, slow down, somehow I know it won't, but then again, is that really a bad thing?
I've come to the point in my life where I will probably never again feel like I've "caught up." No matter how hard I try there will always be things that I need to do, was supposed to do, or want to do. I'm growing up and well my dear, that's just part of it.
New meetings, bigger responsibilities, sneak attack obligations all culminate on the same week every week. How do I keep my life balanced in a way that allows me to get everything done, attend all activities and still have time for "me?"
I've always liked the busy life. Summer days would drive me and my mother insane with my persistent desire to do something besides watch TV or read another five books from the library. I'm still quite enjoying my chaotic whirlwind. I love feeling the necessity of a schedule, and for once I'm actually managing to keep one (knock on wood). When I'm busy, I feel important, but when I'm too busy, I feel drained. Often my most brilliant creativity comes out in the tiny gaps between appointments demanding my attention.
I rejoice that I am able to jump from one meeting to another. I thrive at the idea of a full day block on my calendar. I love being able to experience all that is around me. Just remind me next time I start to complain: I asked for this! =)
I've come to the point in my life where I will probably never again feel like I've "caught up." No matter how hard I try there will always be things that I need to do, was supposed to do, or want to do. I'm growing up and well my dear, that's just part of it.
New meetings, bigger responsibilities, sneak attack obligations all culminate on the same week every week. How do I keep my life balanced in a way that allows me to get everything done, attend all activities and still have time for "me?"
I've always liked the busy life. Summer days would drive me and my mother insane with my persistent desire to do something besides watch TV or read another five books from the library. I'm still quite enjoying my chaotic whirlwind. I love feeling the necessity of a schedule, and for once I'm actually managing to keep one (knock on wood). When I'm busy, I feel important, but when I'm too busy, I feel drained. Often my most brilliant creativity comes out in the tiny gaps between appointments demanding my attention.
I rejoice that I am able to jump from one meeting to another. I thrive at the idea of a full day block on my calendar. I love being able to experience all that is around me. Just remind me next time I start to complain: I asked for this! =)
18 September 2011
Finally Fall.
As the weather turned colder this week, I came to a realization that I had never quite appreciated before now. I love fall. The smooth cool breeze with its hint of apples and pumpkins, the clear calm blue skies -- all of it just puts me at peace and reminds me of why I so dearly love this season. Hoodies and sweaters break out and jeans become a staple once again. Despite the cooler temperatures, there is warmth in the golds and reds of trees and the purples and oranges of sunsets.
Communities gather together for football games, fairs and backyard bonfires. The heat from summer finally releasing its hold and the chill from winter having yet to wrap its tendrils around us. Apple cider, hot chocolate and other warm drinks in paper cups become a permanent accessory to every teenager and busybody alike.
The fires and the leaves produce a longing for a hand to hold. The stars shine down on loved ones curled together on blankets staring back at the lights millions of miles away. Children settle in, but cry for one last dog day before the permanent chill of hallways and homework claim their undivided attention. It's a time of transition that, unlike Spring, lazily stretches its limbs beyond its rightful margins.
Fall is that sticky sweetness of maple syrup. It's the slow progression of Hallelujah sung in a sultry deepness. It's pigskin footballs, cheering fans cuddling in the dew, and families pulling together for Sunday dinners. It's the remembering of days gone by and the dreaming of the days yet to come.
It's a gift.
Communities gather together for football games, fairs and backyard bonfires. The heat from summer finally releasing its hold and the chill from winter having yet to wrap its tendrils around us. Apple cider, hot chocolate and other warm drinks in paper cups become a permanent accessory to every teenager and busybody alike.
The fires and the leaves produce a longing for a hand to hold. The stars shine down on loved ones curled together on blankets staring back at the lights millions of miles away. Children settle in, but cry for one last dog day before the permanent chill of hallways and homework claim their undivided attention. It's a time of transition that, unlike Spring, lazily stretches its limbs beyond its rightful margins.
Fall is that sticky sweetness of maple syrup. It's the slow progression of Hallelujah sung in a sultry deepness. It's pigskin footballs, cheering fans cuddling in the dew, and families pulling together for Sunday dinners. It's the remembering of days gone by and the dreaming of the days yet to come.
It's a gift.
10 September 2011
White Water Rafting
Okay so seriously the scariest day of my life.
Back in January when our young adults group leader was planning our activities for the year, I was excited and thought white water rafting would be fun. As it got closer I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to make it. Nervousness+lack of funds=not for me. But then things worked out and I was able to go. I tossed and turned all last night with nervous energy running through my veins. I did a lot of praying and asked for peace. On the way there and even at the check in, I was the one reassuring people that all would be fine.
I started to panic when our guide began giving us information on the trip itself. One of the most frequent signals you will see is the "get down" signal ... meaning hit the deck! That was warning number one. Warning number two came when he began giving instructions on what to do when you fall out of your raft:
Don't stand up.
Keep your feet and nose above the water.
Get back to your raft and grab the rope.
If you can't get to your raft, grab onto the front or back of a guide's kayak.
Boy am I glad I payed attention.
We came up on the second rapid. It's name is Cucumber due to the sent of the copper snakes extra skin that they shed during whichever season it is that they shed it. I'm in the front of our raft (mistake) and have my foot wedged as much as it could be. I'm gripping my paddle, rowing as hard as I can as I watch the white water sprinting closer and closer. Nosedive. The front tip of the raft hits the center of the rapid and water instantly begs me into its trap.
I feel myself falling backwards. Instantly my face is beneath the white water. My left foot is still wedged in the raft, but only for another second. The water calls me deeper beneath its surface. I'm rolling around; tossing and turning with the tantrum of the rapids. I don't know which way is up. My head bobs above the surface. I breathe as quick as I can before the water decides to pull me under again. Why am I still holding this stupid paddle?! I want to let go, but know I need to hang on to it. I hear my name and I know there are rocks nearby, but all I'm thinking is Jesus, help me! I'm dragged back underwater, my lungs still full of the force all around me. If only I were a fish, then I wouldn't be so desperately searching for the surface.
My head's above water one more time. I go to flip onto my stomach to try to swim, but the rapids are still calling my name. I remember the rule: Keep your nose and toes above the water. Well, I don't know about my toes, but I'm on my back and I can do nothing but pray that the water doesn't pull me back under for another spin.
"Hey! Hey!" A green kayak came into my view. In my desperation I managed to grab the handle on the front, but now what? I tried to swim with my paddled hand, but resorted once again to floating on my back. "Breathe! Breathe!" That means more water is coming. Quick breath. Too late. back under water, still holding tight to the kayak. Air hits my face again. "Breathe!" The water might have claimed me one more time, but I don't remember. I spewed water all the way to the shore and even after I was on the big rock begging for them to let me go back, be done, never have to face the water again.
They gave me the option, I could back out if I wanted to -- but there was also the lunch raft. One small four-man raft with a guide and the coolers inside. The guy knew what he was doing, could ride the rapids and insure no more swimming episodes. So either I get back on the water ... or I spend the next two hours sitting back at check in kicking myself for not trying again.
So, for the next two hours I chatted with Bob and enjoyed the lovely scenery and the occasional splash from the rapids who were wishing for another victim, thankfully too far out of reach.
Click here for more --> White Water Rafting Pictures!!
Back in January when our young adults group leader was planning our activities for the year, I was excited and thought white water rafting would be fun. As it got closer I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to make it. Nervousness+lack of funds=not for me. But then things worked out and I was able to go. I tossed and turned all last night with nervous energy running through my veins. I did a lot of praying and asked for peace. On the way there and even at the check in, I was the one reassuring people that all would be fine.
I started to panic when our guide began giving us information on the trip itself. One of the most frequent signals you will see is the "get down" signal ... meaning hit the deck! That was warning number one. Warning number two came when he began giving instructions on what to do when you fall out of your raft:
Don't stand up.
Keep your feet and nose above the water.
Get back to your raft and grab the rope.
If you can't get to your raft, grab onto the front or back of a guide's kayak.
Boy am I glad I payed attention.
We came up on the second rapid. It's name is Cucumber due to the sent of the copper snakes extra skin that they shed during whichever season it is that they shed it. I'm in the front of our raft (mistake) and have my foot wedged as much as it could be. I'm gripping my paddle, rowing as hard as I can as I watch the white water sprinting closer and closer. Nosedive. The front tip of the raft hits the center of the rapid and water instantly begs me into its trap.
I feel myself falling backwards. Instantly my face is beneath the white water. My left foot is still wedged in the raft, but only for another second. The water calls me deeper beneath its surface. I'm rolling around; tossing and turning with the tantrum of the rapids. I don't know which way is up. My head bobs above the surface. I breathe as quick as I can before the water decides to pull me under again. Why am I still holding this stupid paddle?! I want to let go, but know I need to hang on to it. I hear my name and I know there are rocks nearby, but all I'm thinking is Jesus, help me! I'm dragged back underwater, my lungs still full of the force all around me. If only I were a fish, then I wouldn't be so desperately searching for the surface.
My head's above water one more time. I go to flip onto my stomach to try to swim, but the rapids are still calling my name. I remember the rule: Keep your nose and toes above the water. Well, I don't know about my toes, but I'm on my back and I can do nothing but pray that the water doesn't pull me back under for another spin.
"Hey! Hey!" A green kayak came into my view. In my desperation I managed to grab the handle on the front, but now what? I tried to swim with my paddled hand, but resorted once again to floating on my back. "Breathe! Breathe!" That means more water is coming. Quick breath. Too late. back under water, still holding tight to the kayak. Air hits my face again. "Breathe!" The water might have claimed me one more time, but I don't remember. I spewed water all the way to the shore and even after I was on the big rock begging for them to let me go back, be done, never have to face the water again.
They gave me the option, I could back out if I wanted to -- but there was also the lunch raft. One small four-man raft with a guide and the coolers inside. The guy knew what he was doing, could ride the rapids and insure no more swimming episodes. So either I get back on the water ... or I spend the next two hours sitting back at check in kicking myself for not trying again.
So, for the next two hours I chatted with Bob and enjoyed the lovely scenery and the occasional splash from the rapids who were wishing for another victim, thankfully too far out of reach.
Click here for more --> White Water Rafting Pictures!!
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