Reminiscing Through the Words of C.S. Lewis

"God can't give us peace and happiness apart from Himself because there is no such thing."

C.S. Lewis

It has been over a month since I have blogged and my excuse is pretty acceptable. Well, maybe not, but the fact is that I was literally buried in homework. I couldn't see my desk as I had to write 12 papers in a little over a week and a half. Then, there was studying for finals and saying goodbye to an amazing freshman year. 

I am still in disbelief as I realize the inevitable has happened. My freshman year of college has officially ended and I am back home, getting ready to start a summer job. Not even a book could fill up everything that God has taught me this past year. I have grown in ways that I didn't know were possible, but God was relentless with me. He pushed me and taught me that in order to live a true life as His disciple, I have to be forced into uncomfortable places. When I first stepped foot on Azusa Pacific University's campus last September, I was uncomfortable. Fear, nerves, adrenaline and questions inhabited my entire being. Little did I know the many surprises that God was going to give me at every corner I seemed to turn. It proved to be a year of new beginnings and momentous growth.

I believe C.S. Lewis put it best when He states that our peace and happiness comes from God alone. It doesn't come from other things, but Him alone. My life has been so transformed. A day without Him isn't even possible. We were created for another world and thus, the provisions of this world don't even compare to the greatest provision. 

With God, I have discovered true happiness. I have discovered that everything is in His hands and that I have been created to be a strong woman because of His purpose. For anyone who personally knows me, you would know that these last few years have been quite difficult. It has been a storm that I never expected I would have to enter. Yet, I have come to the realization that God loves me unconditionally and truly does want the best for me. 

God has created me to be a disciple for His Kingdom. With this, comes great sacrifice and discipline. Yet, I have surrendered everything and have been taken aback by the work He has allowed me to be a part of for the furthering of His kingdom. 

A year a go, I chose Azusa Pacific University as my college. Today, I realize that God chose Azusa Pacific University as my college. He knew what He was doing when He placed me in Southern California. I am a completely different person from last year and am even more excited to see what God is going to do in my life for Sophomore year. 

"There are far, far better things ahead than any we left behind."

C.S. Lewis

The truth is spoken through C.S. Lewis as God declares that over our lives in His Truth. While I hold onto this for the next few years that I have at APU, I wanted to take the moment to reflect on a year full of surprises and endless blessings. 

"Love is something more stern and splendid than kindness."

C.S. Lewis

Adams 2nd East exemplifies Seamless Unity. Each one of these ladies is beautiful on the inside and out. We were specifically chosen to be a part of Amanda Kenney's hall. My RA selflessly gave of herself and invested so much into me that has inspired me to be more like her. There is an unspeakable love that I hold for each of these girls. 

"We meet no ordinary people in our lives."

C.S. Lewis

Krysta Nikohl Friesen. My roommate who shared Adams 230 with me. Our friendship is hard to describe as I can only say, it is far from ordinary. God placed us together so that we could be a rock for one another. I was a part of something absolutely extraORDINARY this year, for God pushed her beyond her limits as I watched her grow into a strong woman of God. Both of us have discovered that we are the pure daughters of Zion. As I watched her life transform, my life was transformed at the same time. 

God has brought us to life.

"Friendship is born at the moment when one person says to another: "What! You too? I thought I was the only one."

C.S. Lewis

This is exactly how my friendship started with both Kristen Elaine Phillips and Riley Jean Angell.

I can simply say that they have uplifted me in ways more than one. Our similar passions and dreams proves that God knew all along that the three of us would become great friends.

And just as God surprised me with each of their friendships, He has surprised me with a number of others.

"When we lose one blessing, another is often most unexpectedly given its place."

C.S. Lewis

As I moved six hours away from my home church, I trusted that God would provide another blessing in my life. Again, he surprised me as my church family has been a greater blessing than I could have ever prepared myself for. I have never laughed so hard with such a fun group and have constantly been supported by their prayers and uplifting words. Life Church was exactly what I needed when I moved to Azusa as I am proud to now call it my home church. 

"My own eyes are not enough for me; I will see through those of others."

C.S. Lewis

The lovely Rachel Westerhoff.

I love this girl so much. Even though years separate us in age, I never feel like I'm so much younger than her. God is one of provision and I know God specifically picked her to be my friend. Her wisdom, wit and support is something that I will be forever grateful for. 

"You can make anything by writing."

C.S. Lewis

Well, I came to APU as an undeclared major. Now, I'm proud to say I am pursuing a major in Journalism. God created me to write; He has given me this gift for a reason, while also giving me a passion for Nutrition. I have been accepted into the Nutrition program and will be minoring in Nutrition so that I can pursue my dream of becoming a Health Journalist.

"I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else."

C.S. Lewis

"God doesn't want something from us. He simply wants us."

C.S. Lewis

A man I greatly admire has constructed the words that I so deeply feel within my heart.

Thank you, Lord for the most amazing freshman year.