~2010 Emotions to Close~

Wow, I frequently remember this place and wonder who remembers it.
This is where I write all of my feelings and allow my heart to be free.
I feel engulfed in the memories when I read my old posts.
But I am thankful that times have changed, and that I have grown.
The drama that my life used to entail is no more and most friendships: restored.
I feel love, joy, and peace yet again.
Change is no longer a feared life stranger.

A lot has changed even since August, I was upset at that moment.
I ask for your forgiveness to my dismembered way of response to that situation.
Not that I don't feel the same, but I could have said it better and more respectable.
I'm honest in stating that I wasn't trying to destroy anything lo, I just knew there was still respect left in the household.
Looking back, is no longer a daily occurrence.
But memories, rarely seem as harsh anymore.

I don't favor that fact that unbreakable barriers are between these two; friends and love. But mending ties only captures what we have worked so hard to forget. It's funny, how so many could share years of memories and could never be so far apart.

My daily struggle now consists of my call to ministry. It's kind of funny when you think about it. At the age of 14 I knew I was called to the church. But who really wants to be held to a higher standard, and serve a God that some don't believe real? This endeavor into a ministry type lifestyle, has led me to write. I've never been a very fluid writer, but I do find my queries align with some of the feelings the Biblical writers endeared.

The dream that God has given me, is not impossible. However, when I tell most what I hope to accomplish, I do engage in some disheartening conversations. I stand firm on the believe that if God led you to dream it, He will provide it. We just must have faith, that one day everything will be vindicated. I certainly do.

My daily devotions lack to be honest. However, I am still trying to find the balance between "Christianese" and those new to the faith, or non believers. I work at a church in Tulsa (all for free of course). The youth group is very small, mimicking the one in Terrace Heights. Though, it is more of the female gender than the previous.

I have been in the applicant process for an internship in California. Part of getting a degree in Theology requires outside experience. I hope to be accepted into the program. If it's in God's plan, I will not only live in California all summer, but have paid housing, plus work pay. That and I will work with youth hands on, and get to know California well. If that doesn't work out, I have two other internships already lined up and a fourth prospect to be added to the list. One can never be too covered.

Next December I hold high hopes for graduation from Oral Roberts University. Technically I was supposed to walk this June with a Bachelors in Anthropology from Washington State University. But, if God calls you somewhere then you must go. It's not all bad to walk away from a life that you love, because the blessings surpass that.

The next step of choice is not so certain. I really want to engage in a Masters Program for Non Profit Business. If I do not pursue Graduate School right away, I hope to move into my own apartment and substitute teach. I found out that with a Bachelors you can make $20 per hour or more. I have also considered the Peace Corp, as I cannot do any military service. I almost wish I had never taken the diagnosis of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. Not only are certain professions out of the question, but I feel the knowledge limits myself sometimes. My health isn't great anyways. It's not so much about the money as it is about being happy.

Since 2009 I have been on a life search for happiness and peace. I can say that most days I have embraced "Carpe Diem" to the fullest. Slowly moving to financial freedom, I have become mainly independent. I still obey house rules however I have begun to defer them lately. This is a sign that it is time for me to grow, and establish new relationships. Although, I believe this next phase will be the best in my life yet.

I've learned how to cook a plethora of foods, cultural, family and vegetarian. I recently purchased a VERY cheap vegan book that I could be more excited about. There is over 200 meals that you can make in a dorm room (microwave only) that are also VERY budget worthy. I find that diet is much more important than weight. Fun foods, make eating and experiencing better. Although, I am waiting on blood tests to see if I have developed a new food allergy.

At ORU I am currently in the running for Chaplaincy. Not only is it great for it's scholarships but I would get to be the 'Spiritual Guide' for the floor. I love leading ministry lectures. Speaking on ministry, I have some really exciting news. Last semester a group and I developed an outreach ministry, and we hope to launch it for real in the next year. It's all about networking and prayer. We couldn't be more excited.

More importantly, I have learned to be content with myself and my choices. I still love to do the things I used to. I still have those days where I like time to myself. But, my OCD isn't as bad anymore. I worked on it (with help). I like to go out now, but I don't need someone to go out with.

Music, is still a huge thing in my heart. I don't know where God is placing it in my future. However, I submitted some of my work (writing and vocals) and offered a record deal. The contract has been on the table for weeks, and is completely legitimate. I just don't know about the timing, or the commitment. But I am extremely pleasured that a label wants me. I have high hopes that it somehow connects to my future ministry. Waiting on the Lord is not so easy sometimes, but I have learned that it is the best.

Random friendships have occurred in Tulsa, and Yakima. I find that looking for friendship is worth much more to me than love. I have love for everyone now, and can even tell my family members 'I love you'. It is funny how I never could before. I still tend to be shy in new environments, but that doesn't last long.

At ORU I am known as 'Miss Yakima' and Anya. I love the girls on my floor. It's funny to me, that when I got a chance to start over, no one can believe that I was a shy introverted girl. But, I guess that is part of the morphing into a woman.

I thank God every day for bringing me through how, when, and the way He did. I work hard to sacrifice myself daily, and to remember the end goal. I thank God for those who love and support me, and pray for those who are angered or even hurt by me. While forgiveness is human weakness, it is one that I choose to not be prey to.

In closing, I wish love, joy and peace everlasting.
That fulfillment and satisfaction embraces your doors.
I pray safety, blessing and Jesus fill your life as He has mine.
Amen.

-KKayL