Jubilee

I have yet to write about my reflections on Spring break and the To Write Love on Her Arms Event, but before I do, I want to go back a month and “chew” on some of the words shared at the Jubilee Conference.

Jubilee brought together speakers from all over the US to share how they apply their faith to their everyday lives and how God uses them to bring His Kingdom to earth. I had the privilege of going to this conference for free because I was promoting Geneva’s grad programs, lucky me.

Makoto Fujimura, founder of the International Arts Movement, captured my full attention with every word he spoke. He gave me a new perspective about ENGAGING in life. Many times I focus on practical things (what I have to do), which causes me to miss the beautiful extravagance of fully connecting in life. Fujimura illustrated this concept with the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead-

When Jesus arrived at the grave of Lazarus, he already knew of the miracle he was about to perform. Yet, when he saw all who were mourning, He WEPT with them. He took the time to connect with those he loved, to engage with them at a deeper level. He could have been a “problem-solver” and saved them the grief right away. But, he waited. He shared their pain.

As I am in the process of becoming a counselor, I need to remind myself that I don’t have to be so quick to problem solve. When I am struggling with something, I desire to be understood, to be accepted, and to be loved despite my problems. Only then, do I start to feel confident in my ability (or better yet, God’s ability) to overcome. Counseling starts with a deeper connection and a willingness to experience the other person’s life.

I am also reminded of the story of the woman who poured perfume over Jesus. When the people saw what she was doing they said, “what a waste, it could have been sold and the money could have been given to the poor.” But she saw past practicality, she had an opportunity to fully partake in God and give Him everything she had.

Life is an opportunity. Every moment presents an occasion to engage in something more. Whether it be taking advantage of the beautiful gift of nature, or in a conversation, or in, well, anything. As I go to school, I have to fight the temptation of meagerly fulfilling the minimal amount of work possible. I can, instead, take advantage of the years of counseling experience that the professors offer and engulf myself with knowledge of the field. As I go to church, I have an opportunity to love and be loved by a community. As I work, I can serve my boss with the best of my ability, going beyond expectations.

"Psalm 121" Makoto Fujimura

When Fujimura paints, it’s extremely time consuming and costly. Art is not practical, it’s an extravagance. It cultivates something deeper from within us. It’s kind of like the Christian faith.

The Christian life is not practical.

It’s costly.

It’s risky.

It may seem like a waste.

The concept of ‘just getting by” doesn’t exist.

Yet, I wouldn’t want to live any other kind of life.

Beauty in Imperfection

I’m discovering how all the junk in life can become beautiful.
All I need to do is change my perspective.
I am blessed, I haven’t really suffered in my life.
But I have been deeply impacted by those who have.
Thank you to all of you who have suffered and have chosen to find meaning in it, to grow from it, to make use of it.

what good is each good thing we think we do

I’ve been contemplating lately on the things that I do, what I take pride in and what I regret. I generally think of myself as a good person who does good things. But what does being a “good person” even mean? Take for example the tragic events in Haiti. In the midst of heartache and suffering, the world came together to give whatever they could to help. This generosity and love that arose out of such despair was a hallmark of beauty and human connection. Giving to Haiti is a good thing, a necessary thing. However, I have to be mindful of the motivations behind the good that I think I do. Was giving to Haiti a good deed that made myself feel like a good person or a check off the list of the daily good things I thought I ought to do?  America is the most charitable nation in the world and I’m proud of that. Yet, once we give money, we label ourselves as “good” people because we did our good deeds, and then we move on in our lives. How many times have I given money to the church and thought to myself, “there God, I did what I was supposed to, now reward me.”

Then I reflect on what is truly good.

God is the author of everything good in this world. It all derives from Him. He just uses us as one of His tools to display His goodness. Not only did He forgive me from all of my vices, but He made me a new person. A person who can be an agent, witness, and model of God’s goodness. What a privelage it is to display His glory and not my own. I cannot take any credit for any good that comes from me, for it is only an expression of what God has done and is doing. However, I must continually remind myself to be selfless, not only in my behavior, but primarily in my motivations.

1 Corinthians 10:24 “No one should seek his own good, but the good of others.”

Matt. 19: 16-17 “Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, ‘Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?’ ‘Why do you ask me about what is good?’ Jesus replied. ‘There is only One who is good.’”

Col 3:23 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”

Back to Life, Back to Reality…

Thanks for stopping back in and reading about my endeavors. I had to take a break for a while, but hopefully I’ll get back into writing a post every week. So here are the things I have been doing and learning for the past 2 months:

First of all, the Christmas season was bursting with fun and refreshment with friends and family. I spent much needed time with my brother Jimmy, relaxed at the cabin with my family, and spent long-awaited time with some good friends. I am so blessed to be surrounded with such encouraging, supportive, and fun people in my life!! I also reflected on the astonishing love of God, that He sent His son to us, to relate to us, to show us, to be with us, to suffer for us, and to redeem us. I wish I could fully grasp the enormity and meaning of that gift. Thank you Father, for I do not deserve it.

Certainly one of the highlights from my break was the young adult retreat. There is something about going to a cabin in the middle of the woods with 30 young crazy people that makes my heart smile. From barking in the kitchen, to hiking, to meeting new friends, to reminiscing with old ones, to mastering ping pong, to turning finger fencing into a wrestling match, to breaking windows, to playing mind games- the ridiculousness was never-ending. What an amazing community of people who love God, love each other, and love others! This is what the Christian community’s reputation should be.

However, my break had to come to an end and I had to get back to reality. It started with a week-long intensive Ethics class which was actually a lot of fun. I had the opportunity to get to know my classmates and professors better and to discuss controversial issues in the field. The week was topped off with an all-nighter at the youth group. The only reason I stayed up for as long as I did (I am getting too old for these things) was because of all the absurd fun we were all having. Got to love teenagers!

Then, I had the privilege to go on an adventure with the amazing youth leaders of my church. Basically, all I did all weekend was laugh hysterically!  What an incredible team of individuals who love God and love teenagers. God is so evident in their lives.

New classes have started. It seems like this semester will be more challenging than last. However, I feel up for the challenge. I have to balance my time between two part-time jobs as well. I started my Graduate Assistant job this past week. Basically, I do administrative office stuff for the counseling program. I love it because it’s so flexible and I get to spend time with the professors. Pray that I would be able to manage my time appropriately.

I also started running again. IF ANYONE WANTS TO RUN THE HALF MARATHON WITH ME ON MAY 2nd IN PITTSBURGH, SIGN UP BEFORE FEBRUARY!!! Come on, you know you want to!

Now for a plug for some great things that have come my way:

phil wickham’s Singalongs is one of my favorite worship albums. I simply fell in love with it.

I am currently reading Angry Conversations with God by Susan Isaacs. It’s a memoir written by a comedian in which she goes to marital counseling with God. I am loving it so far.

So now that you are caught up with what’s happening in my life, I would love to hear about what’s going on in yours. The only purpose of blogging for me is to get the conversation going…so call, skype, meet me on facebook, email, visit and hang out, whatever your preference.

Simplicity

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. ~Leonardo DaVinci

Just as a sculptor chips away the useless stone and reveals the beauty, we should silence the unnecessary and give voice to the necessary.

I have learned so much in the past 2 1/2 months! This past week was a little hectic, but one thing I’m learning is to be content in what I have, rejoice in the way things are, and open my senses to what I have never noticed. When nothing is lacking, the world is abundant. I am so grateful for my life.

Here’s an excerpt on the application of simplicity from the book “Celebration of Discipline” by Richard Foster

Buy things for their usefulness rather than their status

Reject anything that is producing an addiction in you. Simplicity is freedom, not slavery.
(my addiction is coffee).

Develop a habit of giving things away

Refuse to be propagandized by the custodians of modern gadgetry; learn to scorn empty promises.

Learn to enjoy things without owning them

Develop a deeper appreciation for creation

Obey Jesus’ instructions about plain, honest speech

Reject anything that breeds the oppression of others. Does our lust for wealth mean the poverty of others?

Shun anything that distracts you from seeking first the kingdom of God

-

I would write more, but that would be defeating the purpose.

I’ll be home from Wed. night until Monday. Call me to make plans.

Week in Review

New friends, fun adventures, and relaxation filled this past week. Each day contained something good, which seemed to permeate throughout the whole week. I don’t want to take it for granted. So here’s to recognizing the good in our lives (cheers).

Last Monday I had the opportunity to meet with some of the leaders of my new church to discuss ways in which I can help. The general consensus was that I would fit right in with the youth ministry. I am pumped!! They just hired their first youth pastor, so everything is fresh and the kids are responding in amazing ways. The group is very small, but they are so open, honest, and amiable. God is going to rock their worlds and I’m honored to be a small part of that.

Tuesday I met with a professor about doing an independent study in place of an elective, meaning, instead of going to a class, I would work on a project.  As my project, I would continue work on my research thesis that I did in undergrad and get it published (which would be a big deal for me). It seems like it will come together, hopefully.

Wednesday I had the privilege of going to the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh to see Osso a string quartet and then watch the stimulating film “The BQE” by Sufjan Stevens.

Osso

Thursday I heard the beautiful voice of Ingrid Michaelson in concert. It was quite fun.

On Friday the counseling program threw a party for all the students. It was nice to mingle with my classmates and the professors outside of the school setting. There are some AMAZING people in the program and I am blessed to know them. The most humorous part of the night was a skit performed by the professors reenacting “The Dating Game,” but instead of picking a date, the woman had to pick a therapist.
Quote: “If they are not paying attention to you, just say ‘Stop it’ that should fix your problem.”
There’s your advice everyone, free of charge. : )

After the party I went to hang out with some new friends from church. I learned a new game that was hilarious. Unfortunately, it involved the need for artistic skills, most of which I am severely lacking.  Ex. I drew a Daffy Duck that looked like a disfigured boy with big lips. Fortunately, that’s what makes the game hilarious. Thanks Special K.

Saturday I had to get back to work. I worked on a paper all day on human trafficking. Depressing stuff, but I’m excited to learn of what I can do to help combat it.

Sunday was GORGEOUS!! A perfect day to worship God and have some girls over for lunch.

That was my week, nothing profound or sensational, just living life by recognizing the goodness of God and His creation. He is the author of everything good!

P.S. Happy Birthday Mom! You are the best and deserve the a marvelous birthday! Also, congratulations to my brother Jimmy who is excelling in the midst of extreme stress in medical school AND he just took on the role of leading a church for the med students. Way to go Jimmy! I am honored to have him as my bro.

Stop to Smell the Roses?

So many good and thought-provoking things filled this week. Here are a few:

Book of the Week: Can Christianity Cure Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder by Ian Osborn.

If you are curious about how the Christian faith can be involved in the treatment of psychological disorders, you should read this book. Osborn takes you through some of the greatest leaders in Christian history who struggled with OCD  including Martin Luther, John Bunyan, and Saint Thérèse and how they overcame this malady with faith and God’s grace.

Article of the Week: Stop to Smell the Roses?

In a cold Washington DC Metro Station in 2007, a street musician plays his violin. Approximately 1500 hurried people pass by the beautifully played masterpieces of Bach.

After playing for 3 minutes-  65 people had already passed, finally a middle-aged man seemed to acknowledge the music by turning his head, never slowing his pace, but nonetheless, noticing the music.

After 6 minutes-  Finally someone leans against a wall and pauses to listen.

10 minutes-  a 3-year-old boy stops, but his mother adamantly tugs him along. Again, the child stops to listen, and again, the mother hurries him. This process is repeated among several children and their parents within the hour.

45 minutes-  7 people stopped what they were doing to hang around and take in the performance for at least a minute. 27 people throw some money in the case on the run. The man earns $32, not bad for just an hour in the Metro.

1 hour- He stops. Nothing is heard other than the muffled sounds of scurried people on their way to work. With no applause, the man places his violin back in the case and moves on.

The violinist was none other than Joshua Bell, one of the finest classical musicians in the world, performing the most intricate pieces ever written, playing a $3.5 million violin!

This was a social-experiment put together by the Washington Post. Click here for the article.

Hundreds of people with only one focus- get to where I need to go, cell phones to their ears, coffee in their hands, racing in the rush of the modern world.

If they missed something so incredible, it begs the question, what kind of things are we missing?

Song of the week: Teen Angst- M83.  Album of the Week: Funeral- Arcade Fire. A little older, but still so good.

Fun Events of the week:

Carving pumpkins with the neighbor boys. So cute!

Halloween/Birthday Party with some of the young adults from church. My favorites were Richard Simmons and the Swine Flu.

The Wire

After a pretty tough week  of more midterms (one of which was the most ridiculous exam I have ever taken), being sick, starting my new job, and paying for unexpected bills, I sit here in the coffee house listening to M. Ward, sipping tea, and reflecting on the marvelousness of my life.

For example, my neighbors heard that I wasn’t feeling well, so when they were on their way to walmart they knocked on my door to ask if they could pick up anything for me. Such simple, easy-to-do kind acts can really brighten someone’s day.

It reminds me of when my group counseling class did rope courses. The task was to cross a thin wire by holding onto a vertical rope until half-way, the other half relied on another person extending their hand. One of my classmates, in particular, did not want to do this. However, after seeing everyone else go, he knew that it was possible. As to not let down the team and refusing to acknowledge his grave fear of heights, he quiveringly steps onto the wire. Step by step he progresses towards the middle. However, the rope can soon no longer sustain him and he panics. He becomes paralyzed in distress. The vibration of the wire was on the verge of prompting a fall.

Just then a teammate reaches out her hand. The hand is rather small and unstable, not much reason to trust. Yet, in the midst of panic and anxiety, the simple knowledge that someone was there diminished his fear. The hand never held him up, all it did was guide and encourage. He was able to cross the wire on his own power, with the help of another.

Many life lessons can be applied. However, my brave classmate applied it to counseling. How counselors should simply be there for their clients, be themselves, the encouragers God created them to be, not some expert who can cure all the client’s problems.

Many times people simply need to know that others care about them. Isn’t that what the church is about? Loving each other and sharing God’s love with our neighbors, boss, classmates, the grocery clerk, EVERYONE!

I tend to want to jump in and be “the fixer.” Or I’m too busy in my own world to even notice that someone is struggling. Or I don’t think I can do anything to help.

I’m learning that simple, easy-to-do kind acts can really brighten someone’s day. That’s it. Don’t over-analyze. Just show love. Nothing may happen and you lose nothing. But something incredible may happen and someone may conquer “their wire.”

With love,

Jenny

Always end with the good

What a week.
Last Monday = Studying + Running
Tuesday = Studying + Midterm + Leading a semi-mock group session
Wednesday = Studying + Hiking
Thursday = Studying + an hour and 15 min. long presentation on bullying + Midterm
then a 4 day weekend back home = happiness.

Somehow a difficult week always seems “doable” when there is something to look forward to.

The 1st thing I was looking forward to was a wedding of a friend I grew up with. Congratulations Rachel and Bryan Whipple!

2nd thing: Seeing family, of course. I missed them greatly and it was good to catch up. I’m so glad that I can call my grandmother one of my closest friends. : )

3rd thing: Returning to Freedom Life and seeing the amazing things God is doing. Now it’s time to spread some of the passion across the state, it’s very needed.

4th: Going to Young Adult Group. For those who are reading this and are in the group, I hope you appreciate what you have because it’s so hard to find something like it. Make sure you give some love to Bryan, Erica, Cub, and Tim for their dedication.

5th: Watching the Satan video by Blake and Jordan. So funny, it made me tear up.

6th: Hooka, enough said.

7th: Shane vs. Ben, Tim vs. Jason, and Leah vs. Sarah boxing.

8th: Apples to Apples. I wish I could recite the ridiculousness of it.

9th: Early bird special at the Way of the Dutch. Thanks Jason. I don’t even care if the coffee sucks. 2 eggs, hashbrowns, toast, coffee, and talking for 3 hours for $2.49, what could be better?

10th: Lunch with the Freedom Life staff. What an honor to say that I have worked along side such amazing people (ADD random singing people, but nonetheless, amazing).

What a great weekend break!

Now that the weekend is over, I have to prepare for 2 more midterms this week.

Pittsburgh did not give me a warm welcome home. I got ticketed for going 5 mph over the speed limit on the turnpike. The cop was so mean! (Sorry for venting)

Now I have to think of something good to write in order to end on something positive…

…exam scores are coming back. It seems like I’m retaining the material, or at least regurgitating it well.

Also, God is so good! Remember that when you pray, He ANSWERS in the most amazing and unexpected ways.

Peace,

Jenny

Get r done

This week will be a challenge: 2 midterm exams, co-leading a group session, and a hour-long presentation. Thus, I am trying to make good use of every minute by studying and preparing. The first exam is always the worst, especially when it counts for 1/2 of my grade in the course.

Yet, in the midst of stress, I am confident and feel at ease. And I have something to look forward to for the weekend- I come home!!

“SERENITY NOW, SERENITY NOW!”

Jenny

Let it Fall

Fall has begun which means: the hiking trails call my name, the scarfs and boots beg to be worn, hot apple cider tastes like a harvest festival inside my mouth, and the crisp air refreshes me as I snuggle under my down blanket. I love fall!

basking in the change of seasons

As far as updates go, I am doing well.

One of my goals for the week was to talk to as many strangers as possible. I found this to be highly entertaining. You never know the stories behind the people you randomly meet until you ask. I think I’ll make it a goal for this week as well because I still hesitate to break out of my shell.

Read, read, read. That’s all I do for school. In about 2 weeks all I’ll do is study, study, study for midterms. However, for my group counseling class we are required to meet in small groups ourselves. Thus, every Tuesday night me, 4 classmates, and 2 leaders who are second year students meet to discuss whatever we want. We met twice and I already feel that the relationships that form will last much longer than the semester.

I am jogging every other day.  Today I ran 5 miles. It has been good to release energy and to quiet my mind. I think I’ll start training for a half-marathon. I never thought I would say such words. Hopefully I can stay motivated.

God is ever-present in this endeavor. He is revealing many things to me about myself. Right now, it’s just me and Him. I’m trusting that He is all I need.

Thank you to The National, Hillsong, Andrew Bird, Anathallo, Noah and the Whale, and Sigur Ros for making my heart smile is week. There is always music playing in my apartment. I hope no one can see me dancing through my windows. : )

I come home in 2 weeks. I can’t wait to see everyone and celebrate with Rachel (a childhood friend) at her wedding. If you want to make plans for the 17-19th weekend, call me.

With love,

Jenny

One Month

Well, I’ve been in Beaver Falls for a month now.
It seems like a lot longer though.

There is not too much to report. I started my new job this week and it is going well. The first week was unbelievably boring because I sat in a tiny room by myself watching 18 hours of training videos. But at least I’ll get paid and I’ll enter the field this week.

My classes are amazing! The professors blow me away and I’m excited to soak in all the knowledge that they have. We had a guest speaker this week. Jason Gregg shared his powerful story of having Cystic Fibrosis and receiving a double lung transplant. If you know of anyone is struggles with a disability, who has chronic illness, or if you want to emphasize with someone going through a hard time, check out his story of hope at www.thesouldier.com

I have to admit that I miss home. I can’t believe I left a life that I loved so much. I had the most amazing job, church, friends, and family. What else could one ask for? But then I was reminded of God’s goodness and faithfulness this morning as I read about the rich young ruler in Mark who wasn’t willing to give up everything to follow Jesus. I’m still working on giving Jesus my EVERYTHING, however, I gave up a lot to go to this school for Him. I know that this is the path He wants me on and no other path would ever match up.
Regardless of all of the promises of God that I await, I still miss everyone deeply and can’t wait to come visit Oct. 16-18.

With love,

Jenny

Things I am currently delighting in:

I am delighted by the fact that I am Maid of Honor at my good friends Elsbeth and Nathan’s Wedding. I am so excited to be a part of their celebration! I love you guys!

Elf + Nate

I am thrilled to be starting my new job tomorrow! I will be working as a Therapeutic Support Staff (TSS) for children in their schools, home, and community. Most of these kids are on the Autism Spectrum or have behavioral problems. This job will be a challenge in developing my patience and therapeutic skills. However, I am blessed to have the opportunity to help these kids accomplish their treatment goals and become more self-sufficient in their social and emotional functioning.

I have found a church that may be right for me. I’m not quite sure yet, but the community of young adults there are so welcoming and I’m excited to get to know them.

Then I delight in the little things like…
Making really good coffee to start the day off and then indulging in tea to end it.
Sprawling out on my new queen-sized bed
Constantly listening to music
Always having a movie at my disposal (netflix is the greatest invention ever)
Walking to class
Contemplating human interaction and relationships
Going to Goodwill and actually finding some things that I love
Going next door to the coffee house for some refreshing live music
Watching the Steelers game with some new friends, except that they lost (I pretty much HAVE to become a Steelers fan here, or else…)
Homemade Bread
Jogging in the morning
Hiking in the Park (see Photos)

But the thing I delight in the most is the amazing support I have from friends and family. Thank you all for your generosity and love. I have been so blessed! I love and miss you guys.

What are some of the small things in life you delight in?

Cup of Tea

You know when you put on some hot water, anxiously awaiting a warm cup of tea and you finally hear the whistle? You get excited (or at least I do) about settling in and basking in the glory of a nice cup of tea. However, even after the whistle has blown, you still have to wait until it cools off. My life seems like this process right now. The whistle has blown, I came here and I’m awaiting the many good things that will come my way. However, after 2 weeks of being here I realize that I have to be patient. I’m taking little sips here and there, resisting my urge to “chug it all down” and have everything in place. Things are coming together, but I still have a ways to go. Taking little sips of tea makes the cup more enjoyable anyway.  : )

I started my classes last week and I’m eager to learn the material. When I mean learn, I mean to think, wrestle, memorize, expand, apply, wrestle some more, and make it become natural, because by this time next year I’ll be with real clients helping them face real problems (with supervision of course). It’s a little overwhelming to think about. Anyway, I throughly enjoy 3 out of my 4 classes and the professors are AMAZING! I just have to try to get used to having class for 3 hours. It has been fun getting to know my classmates also. There are 16 of us (3 guys, 4 people over 45 years old, and the rest fresh out of college). We will become family by the time the 2 years are over.

I am trying to take advantage of all the time I have to myself. The program has challenged me to not only know what I think, but how I think. How my attitudes shape my thinking and behavior, how my thinking shapes my behavior and attitudes, how my behavior shapes my attitudes and thinking. Try it! As soon as you feel an emotion, evaluate the thought process that preceded it and the behavior you preformed afterwards. You’ll learn a lot about yourself when you evaluate processes, not just results.

As for the practical things in my life, I had two job interviews so far and one of them is interested! I’m checking out churches, but realize how much I truly love Freedom Life. I’m not going to find something similar out here, so I need to be more open.

I miss all of you very much. You are welcome to come out and visit anytime!

With love,

Jenny

Welcome

My brother Jimmy sends out updates of his life every week. Since I have such big expectations to live up to, I figured I would start a blog for my friends and family back home to capture a glimpse of my life. So here it goes…

I arrived at my apartment in Beaver Falls last Tuesday and now a new life is sprouting. Much to my surprise, I am delighting in this new beginning. I have had time to collect my thoughts and emotions, settle in, and explore. From shopping, to getting lost in Pittsburgh, to having dinner with my landlords, to going to Geneva’s football game, to exploring churches, every moment seems like a new chapter in a novel full of adventures.

I am excited, nervous, and anxious about my next 2 years here. How will I do in school? Will I find a decent job and church? Will I meet people and develop friendships (right now the only people I know are my landlords, pretty lonely, but that will change once classes start tomorrow). Yet, in the midst of all these questions I find myself strangely at peace. As I read Psalms, I discover that God is so much bigger than my fears (duh right?). In fact, if there wasn’t something scaring me in my life, than I would probably not be living life to its fullest. Life is meant to be challenging. Challenges harvest growth, growth brings vivacity, which then helps me take on new challenges. All this to say, “bring it on.” My God is beside me every step of the way.

I’m ready… ready to discover more about myself, ready to trust Jesus with EVERYTHING, ready to delve into my relationship with Him, ready to take on this new endeavor!

I miss everyone, but because there are so many avenues to keep in touch (facebook, phone, twitter, email, blog, letters), homesickness isn’t so bad. So make sure you utilize these avenues!!

~JENNY