The last time I posted, I still attended Austin Peay State University. I have come so far since then... In the fall of 2012, I transferred to Freed-Hardeman University.... That was by far one of the best decisions of my life! It is such a blessing to get a Christian education and be in an environment where everyone genuinely cares about you. I changed my major from nursing (which made me miserable) to a double major in music and education. I can now honestly say that I enjoy attending classes and I know that my career will make me truly happy! I also joined the University Chorale (another great decision). It is such an honor to get to be a part of such an amazing group and to have the opportunity to sing to people and shine His light.
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| This is a photo of Chorale at our first concert of the year in Jackson, Missouri. |
I feel that since I have been at Freed, my relationship with God has become much stronger. I feel more confident spreading His word and I love doing His work. A wise friend once told me that unless we continuously strive to spread His word, then we are missing the whole point of life. I couldn't agree more and will work diligently to live a life that will make God happy.
In January, the Chorale embarked on our winter tour. We began by visiting Lipscomb University in Nashville to participate in the Christian College Chorale Festival. It was an awesome experience getting to sing with all of the students from the numerous colleges that attended. When that was over, we performed at a few congregations and Christian schools in Tennessee, then headed south to Georgia and Alabama to do the same before heading back to Freed just before the beginning of the Spring semester.
This is me and Shauna on Daphne (our bus) during tour.
Over Spring Break I had the opportunity of partaking in a mission trip to Pompano Beach, Florida. We had a blast working for the Lord and doing everything we could to spread His word. While we were there, we organized a food, clothing, and toiletry giveaway for homeless people in the area. We spent months beforehand on campus collecting, organizing, and packing these items to be brought down with us. We also put on a Bible Fun Fair in one of the local parks. There, we set up many games that taught people about the Bible, gave away more food and clothing, and had a balloon release at the end that sent up prayer cards that were filled out by the visitors throughout the day. We worked with the Sixth Street Church of Christ throughout the entire week. It was awesome getting to work with both the English and Spanish congregations. I fell in love with all of the members and had such a hard time leaving that place! I wish to visit again soon! On Tursday of that week, we had a free day. We all rode a bus into Miami and visited the Miami Zoo. What a great week!
Since the beginning of the school year, the Chorale had planned on campaigning in Scotland. However, after a few unfortunate circumstances, the trip was cancelled. After the cancellation, I was offered an opportunity to go to Honduras on a week long mission trip in the summer and, since the Scotland trip was cancelled, I was thrilled by this opportunity. Soon afterward, (actually while I was in Florida) I was told of an opportunity to become an intern with the mission team which extended my week long trip to Honduras to a six and a half week trip to Panama, Costa Rica, and Honduras. Though there were a few bumps in the road, with a lot of prayer and hard work, I will be leaving June 2nd to set out on that journey and I couldn't be more excited!
I finished up my semester at Freed leaving behind many amazing memories. I cannot wait for next semester to return "home". I love that place so much! I know a lot of times I get discouraged, impatient, and dismayed, but I know that He has great plans for me and I can't wait to see what comes next!
