So, after a long drawn-out process of brainstorming ideas for this blog and throwing them all out the window, I realized that there is only one thing about which is worthy of writing: ME. Between my family, friends, and God, I have become a very compassionate 18 year old girl. I could not have asked for anything more.
My family is perfect. We are always together and happy with each other. We never argue or gossip about one another, and we are always readily available when someone needs us. Not! Actually, my mom and dad divorced when I was 5 years old. I lived with my mom, and I saw my dad every other weekend until I was about 16. Around that time, my dad told me that he didn’t enjoy my company because I act so much like mom, therefore, I stopped going for several months. We still only see each other for holidays and birthday parties. I haven’t seen any of my dad’s family for months because he disowns them, and my mom’s family lives all across the country. The majority of my family members are generally unhappy people and because of them, I have learned that “most people would rather be certain they’re miserable, than risk being happy.”
On the other hand, my friends are very happy people. Although I didn’t have the best of friends in high school, I was still blessed because I became very independent. Now, my college friends give me a reason to hang out and enjoy life instead of excluding myself from group work and projects. With the variety of friends I have, one of them is bound to put a smile on my face no matter how down in the dumps I am. They always remind me to “never let life’s hardships disturb… no one can avoid problems, not even saints or sages.”
Finally, God has influenced my life more than I ever thought possible. Growing up going to church with my mom, I participated in all the youth activities that were available and beneficial to my faith. I visited the homeless kitchen to help serve food and keep the children busy, while the parents enjoyed their meals. I also provide financial support to a young girl in Bolivia for bible study classes, clothes, meals, and school supplies. With the help of this girl’s outstanding faith, I have learned how important it is to always be available to help others in times of need. “He will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
Living by God’s word and learning from my family and friends, is exactly what made me who I am. Of all the lessons I have experienced, I realize the most important is God’s commandment “that you love one another as I have loved you.”
