Patience. Prayer. & Perseverance

All your ways are good, All your ways are sure. I will trust in you alone
Higher than my sight, High above my life. I will trust in you alone.

While studying for my last exam before Spring Break this morning, I thought back to two years ago when I was waiting to make a final decision about college and whether or not being a college athlete would become a reality. I had my heart set on LaGrange College since the summer before my senior year, but my love for this institution revolved around the atmosphere it produced, the people it provided, and the abundant opportunities I would be offered during my four years in college. I can admit a part of me wanted to claim the role of becoming a college athlete, but it was an even bigger part of me that couldn't give up the game after high school. Softball has been a part of my life ever since I was seven years old, and it is a cornerstone to the person I have become today. How would it be possible to even consider giving up something that has taken over not only my life but my family's life for the last thirteen years? 

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

I have been in constant prayer since the beginning of this softball season asking God to guide me in the right direction regarding playing college softball while pursuing my degree. At the beginning of this semester, I was accepted into LaGrange College's Nursing Program, my sole purpose in intending this school. While I know these next two years will be far from easy, I have trust in God that He will serve as a mentor in all that I do. Along with many others, I ask myself every day if this will be my last year playing softball. While my heart is still conflicted, I am patiently waiting and praying for God to show me His intentions for my next two years here at LaGrange. Some may ask how I could give up the talent that God has given me on the field, but I am beginning to see how He may be shining his light through me in a different direction than I ever expected.

This summer I will be working as a Village Counselor at Camp Glisson. Glisson is a ministry of the United Methodist Church in the forests surrounding Cane Creek Falls in Dahlonega, Georgia. The goal of Camp Glisson is to make disciples of Jesus Christ while encouraging transformation, growth, and renewal for all involved. I am so excited for this new adventure God has sent my way and for the ability to lead others while strengthening my own faith and personal growth. This is an opportunity I have anxiously been awaiting, and I am praying for God to work through me this summer while I am provided the chance to guide and interact with such a diverse group of campers and co-workers. I am looking forward to sharing my summer experiences with you all as they unfold.

While spending my entire summer away from home, I am trusting in God to give me insight to the plans He has set out for me while attending Nursing School. Although the days may seem long and my patience grows weary,  I know giving over control and having faith in the Lord throughout these emotional decisions is the answer to my anxiety. While I feel I am mentally and emotionally suffering on some days compared to others, patience, prayer, and perseverance in the power of God have proven to take a weight off my shoulders and burdens off my heart.

"and after you have suffered a little while, the God of all Grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you." 1 Peter 5:10

With Love & Laughter,
Alison