December, 2010
To Do lists pretty much saved me this semester. So that's exactly what this blog post shall be: a list. But this is a list of thankfulness and reflection not HOMEWORK. xP Yay! Happiness! =)
1. "Firsts"
Hmmm...I've had so many new experiences in the past five months! The biggest change was iving away from home and taking care of myself. I use public transportation regularly, I've been skating beneath the skyline of Chicago, I've met more Mid-westerners than you can shake a stick at, deep-dish pizza gets two thumbs up, I go shopping on Michigan Avenue, I have friends who come from places like Canada, China, Mexico, Switzerland, Haiti, and India, and I went the farthest west I've ever been and had Thanksgiving in Iowa at my roommate's house.
2. Chicago
Oh, Chicago, how I love thee. I can't say enough about you.
I had a thoughtful moment ten stories up on the roof of Houghton Hall (my dorm) a month or two ago. It was nearing sunset, and the view to the east was beautiful. The sleek black Hancock tower was most prominent. The red YMCA sign glowed a few blocks away, and glassy apartment buildings reflected the evening sky. I couldn't decide if this man made sight was truly beautiful. Except for a few lone trees and some grass, everything as far as I could see was artificial--constructed. I still prefer to gaze at a distant mountain range or a forest of pine trees, but I decided that cities can be beautiful too. Living amongst so many diverse people, I've seen the great breadth of God's love more than ever before. While riding the "L" or a bus or just walking down the street, I find myself wondering what I would hear if I could read the minds of the people around me. Where are they going? What are they feeling? What are their stories?
Cities are wonderful. Every nation and language lives in one place, and they all need a Savior.
3. People
Speaking of people, I live with a bunch of them. 23 other women to be exact. My smallest class is about 20 people, and my largest class is almost 150.
People are everywhere!! You can't get away!
Houghton Hall 3 West is like a family. I love everyone dearly. Hearing about some of the issues others floors have dealt with has made me so thankful for the Christ-like community of 3West. But I have many other friends on other floors as well. =)
4. PCM (Practical Christian Ministry)
My required weekly ministry at the nursing home went well this semester. The residents seem to always look forward to our visit every week. We share our faith in the short lessons we give every week along with the worship songs and I've had many opportunities to speak one-on-one with someone about God. Next semester, I'm still going to the same place. Next semester, however, I'll be looking for a PCM I'm interested in switching to. We're encouraged to get experience in different kinds of ministry.
Well, I'm halfway through my freshman year and if someone says "It will fly by!" one more time, I might scream...
Because I love Moody Bible Institute and I don't want it to go by too fast. =D
