What would you do?

How is one supposed to react when a gun is pulled on a family member? I had hoped to never find out, but today, I did. My little sister, gosh I'm so proud of her, told a guy "God loves you" and this guy pulls a gun on her. She tells him again, "God loves you" and this man is brought to tears, but has a gun still in his hands. She reaches for his hand so he can't point it at her, and she says again
"God loves you."

I'm going to be honest, when I found out this happened, I was about ready to strangle this guy, my worst nightmare almost come true, My family getting hurt, and me being unable to stop it. But at the same time, I look at my little sister and can't help but think "I am SO proud of her." She was willing to die just so this guy could know, that God loves him. I don't know many people that would have done that, and I know a few people who were near her who said they wouldn't have done that. It should get people thinking, am I really ready to die for what I believe, how far would I be willing to go for Christ, am I in it 100%. What would you have done?

Leading

I think one of the hardest things when it comes to growing up is the sudden realization that people look up to you. I don't think its ever hit me so hard. The way I speak, act, dress, and even laugh at is all being watched, judged, and often mimicked. I'm still at that age where I want to figure things out and test waters a bit, but I also know I don't have that luxury. I'm learning to watch my actions more closely, and be aware of the outcomes on a higher level.

I so often look around and am amazed at the level of respect I am given, and the amount of leadership positions I am placed in, but other times I have to say, it honestly sucks, because so often I'm having to choose between friendship or leadership. But I also think this has given me a new found respect for those who are leaders. They have to deal with more than just the surface value of any situation, and it's not as easy as they make it out to be. I have been so blessed to be surrounded by gracious leaders who are constantly surrounding me in prayer and support. So I know I, for one, will be praying even harder for them, especially now.

Guess what?!

SCHOOL IS OUT FOR SUMMER!!!!

Happy summer, I know I will definitely be keeping busy this summer, What plans does everyone have?

Realizations

"The future can either be scary or exciting, i can generally be found on the confused end."

How true this statement has become. I'm not afraid of the future, but I'm also not jumping for joy as it comes near. I am enjoying living in the present, and not taking for granted the limited time I do have on this earth. So when it comes to future plans, I seem to find myself with my head tilted and a questioning look on my face. For a long time I thought I knew what I wanted and where I was going, but recently I have been forced to realize, that not all my dreams are in Gods will. I was recently having a conversation with a friend, and realized that much of my longings and desires were contradictory, and that I wouldn't be able to have it all, so confusion has begun to set in. Now, of course it doesn't help that I am prepping for finals, and ACT's, Senior pictures, College apps, Financial Aid, Scholarships, looking for work, and so the list goes on. but I truly believe that despite my confusion, I can be at peace knowing that God isn't confused about His plans for me, and that is what is keeping me going.

"For I know the plans I have for you"
Declares the Lord
"Plans to make you prosper,
Plans for a hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11