On My Own

Well, I've been living on my own for one week, as of today. I'm living out in Akron about five minutes from campus, in my sister's boyfriend's house while they're in Texas. (Technically I'm house/dog sitting, but I've moved all my stuff out of my house.) Nonetheless, I'm no longer living with my family. Tomorrow I'm moving from this house to my dorm later in the afternoon, and I couldn't be more excited! I've been growing spiritually and enjoying the peace and quiet here, but I do miss being around people. I think this whole week has proven to me that I can do it. Obviously I don't have the finances to be living on my own, but that's about the only thing holding me back. I've been managing my time, taking care of two crazy dogs, making my own meals, doing my laundry, keeping the house clean....I can't begin to explain how happy I've been out here. And tomorrow, it's all about to change.

Tomorrow, I'll be meeting my roommate and the rest of the Emerging Leaders for the first time in person. I'm big into meeting new people, so this is right up my alley. Plus, I get to be whoever I want to be. From day one, I can show that I'm a Christian and passionate about living my life for Jesus Christ. No more being shy. No more being a hypocrite or acting ashamed of my faith. This past week of living on my own, has given me plenty of time to study God's word and pray about the future ahead. I'm excited to be around people again, even though it means sacrificing this house with my own bedroom (kind-sized bed...that's right, king-sized!), my own bathroom, nice little kitchen, and living room with a TV. All so that I can be squeezed into a tiny room with another person, a bathroom down the hall, and food that's a five minute walk away. But that's what I've been wanting, so there's no complaining on my part. I think it'll be a lot of fun and a stretching experience...God didn't call for us to be comfortable, but rather uncomfortable; putting ourselves out there and being bold for our Savior!

I appreciate any prayers. God is going to be doing some amazing things, maybe even some scary things. I'm ready to face the challenge head-on and be the person that God desires for me to be!