A Summer of Restoration
"Grow through what you go through."
I did not make a blog post all summer. I desperately needed the summer to recharge, refocus, and rethink. God blessed me this summer with a deeper appreciation and understanding for restoration.
For those of you who do not know me, last semester was tough for me. For those of you who DO know me, last semester was tough for me. I say that because I am really good at pretending I am okay, even when I am not. I prefer the "fake it until you make it method" when it comes to the age-old question, "How are you?" On my best day, my answer will be the same as my worst day, "I am doing so good! How are you?" I don't like to admit my struggles because they make me feel weak.
I am the king of bottling up my feelings.
Last semester, by the looks of my social media and my optimistic personality, it looked as if I were thriving. In reality, on the inside, I felt like I was slowly withering away.
There were people who cared enough about me that they asked me the tough questions; they saw through the fake smile, they told me the things most people do not enjoy hearing. But, I am thankful for those family members and true friends who cared about my well being.
I had obsessed myself with busyness, trying to distract myself from dealing with the problems in front of me.
This summer I worked at a summer camp in Branson. As counselors, we did a study called A Gospel-Centered Life. It caused us all to dive deep into our struggles. I decided to do something about all of the distractions, temptations, lies, and pride. My mentor challenged me to look deeper and do some soul searching.
It was not easy, because dealing with your struggles is not fun... but the restoration you see on the other side is oh so beautiful. We are placed on this earth to glorify the King and praise His name. We are placed on this earth to love God, and love others.
Phillipians 2 gives me goosebumps and chills everytime I read it. The chapter is literally titled, "Have the Attitude of Christ." How is that for a challenge? We will never be able to do that on our own, and that's the point. He knew that. He knew we would NEED to rely on Him. He is the perfect example, an example we should model our lives after.
“Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.
Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.
Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.”
So where am I at now? It seems like I am challenged by most of my friends, professors, and mentors to stop and REFLECT. I chose one word to summarize this summer.
RESTORATION.
I am walking into my senior year of college knowing that I have grown. We are always growing, always given the opportunity to thrive. I have witnessed a ton of brokeness be restored with my family, friends, and community.
I have learned that bitterness is unnecesary. I have learned that you can cross many bridges most people would encourage you to burn. I have learned to do the right thing even when it's difficult. I have learned to live a life not defined by a rearview mirror. I have learned that my God is greater. I have learned deeper about my identity as a child of the King. I have learned love covers way more ground than hate. I have learned that I will never "arrive," but instead I chase daily after the example of Christ allowing Him to complete me. I have learned that God's timing is way better than mine. I have learned that sometimes the most peace waits on the other side of fear. I have learned that God is consistent in every circumstance.
I have experienced RESTORATION.
-LM
You are loved! Until next time...
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