Morning my dear friends-
Two yeas ago I dropped out of my sorority. I took a leap of faith and decided to take a step into the unknown. Theta was my comfort zone. Those girls were my world, they had "my back" and I had theirs. I've been told I can't refer to myself as a GDI (gosh dang independent) and I would say (some would disagree) that regardless of "status" I will always be a Theta. Being exposed to the nongreek world has completely changed my view of people (sounds silly, but it's true). I used to look down on people who weren't in houses and pity them for not having a group of their own. I assumed they were missing out, never did I think they viewed me as equally pathetic. My point? We assume were part of something bigger and better. Our friends are more attractive, our team has more skills, our group is more "realistic" or cares more about the environment.
Through working at Bread & Cup I have met some of the most interesting people (in a fantastic way). While talking to the homeless, I have met some of the most nonjudgmental people. While volunteering at People City Mission, I have met some of the most loving people. I don't say this to brag about my good deeds, I say this because these people have been the individuals that have brought me encouragement, joy and inspiration. I am ashamed to admit I entered the situation viewing myself as the "better" person. Instead, I was exposed to the safe bubble I often keep myself in, the little risks I took, and the love I'd been holding back for years. While praying/pondering over The World Race and situations to come, God has been radically changing my perspective about people.
Before thoughts:
-All athletes are jerks and full of themselves.
-All homeless are on the streets because they're lazy.
-All people who have piercings & tattoos covering their bodies are on drugs.
-All Christians are judgmental.
Where did I hear these? From myself.
Gods radical truth:
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." -Romans 3:23 (at the end of the day, I'm still a sinner)
"For God shows no partiality." -Romans 2:11 (viewed equally, zero separation)
"For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly." -Romans 5:6
(died for the worst of the worst, including me)
"But if by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace."
-Romans 11:6 (we can't earn it)
"Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight." -Romans 12:14 (we are to humble ourselves)
"Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, practice the very same things." -Romans 2:1
(never a situation where judgment is "ok". We are just as filthy)
I'm not better than anyone. I was called to radically love everyone. If I truly strive to follow God, I am called to love my brothers and sisters without limits or restrictions. Regardless of tattoos, piercings, body odor, or clothing style we are family aka equals.
May we all ignore stereotypes and challenge the norm, being friends with those who look nothing like us, and loving on those whose story is nothing like our own. May we assume each person we encounter is beautiful.
"Be kind for everyone you meet is fighting a battle." -Plato
Your friend,
Ellie
