Ready for Institute!!

All I can say is WOW! From the moment we drove into Jacksonville, I knew that Aaron and I would find everything we could ever want in a city. Know matter where you are, hop in a car and go to the beach, downtown, riverside, or the historical San Marco - all in less than 30 minutes. To be honest, I had already read that a thousand times on the Jax website and numerous brochures, but it's hard to believe it until you get there. That said, Aaron and I ended up putting a deposit down in Avondale, which is a beautiful historic community in Riverside. I'll be posting pics as soon as we move in.

Induction week was amazing! I am truly working with some of the most wonderful young men and women who are seeking to bring change to this community. I am surrounded by people my age who have a vision, a passion, and a purpose for being here. Many of them just wanted to be part of a great cause, and some want to revolutionize education in America. While we are all dreamers and visionaries, I know that my purpose is different. Here is my biggest prayer request: while these men and women are amazing, most of them do not know Jesus Christ as savior. I look at them and think to myself, "Wow, imagine if they were serving the Lord with this passion." It is inspiring and motivating to be around them, but even more, I am hurting to think that they are far from God. I want first and foremost to make great gains in students' lives and achievements in Jacksonville, but my second purpose is to stand out among many with my Christ-like attitude and lifestyle. I am the minority here. Yes, Jacksonville is in the Bible belt, but that's not where my new friends come from. They are bringing their views and experiences from well outside of this community. Many of them have negative experiences with Christians, and I am here to change that. I will not judge, I will not boast, and I will love.