As I sit here and reflect on all the ways God has transformed me I can’t help but to think about the people that have been with me since the beginning of this insane journey.
Philia, Greek word meaning “brotherly love”
This blog goes out to the people God has placed on my path for a purpose. Who have shown so much philia since the very beginning of this incredible journey. We’ve invested in each other, we’ve seen radical growth happen. This adventure wouldn’t be the same without any one of you. You all have touched my life in different ways and I’ve learned something from all of you.
Soto (Ashley), you’re kind and loving heart has felt like home from the beginning of this race. Your love lights up a room, and that’s why people seek your presence. Also, the perspective you have is unique and I love that you’ve always been confident in sharing it.
From you I’ve learned…
Don’t be afraid to share your opinion and have confidence in what you believe to be true. Also, not to be easily persuaded based on what others may think.
I’m missing…
Hearing you say ‘Sí se puede’, singing/worshipping with you, your music playing all the time and Fat Cake.
Daniel (Daniel), you seem quiet at first but I now know you to be probably one of the
smartest people I know. You seek biblical truth
From you I’ve learned…
To not take a sermon or word I hear from someone straight to the heart especially on
things I’m not familiar with, but to check, ask the Lord and see if it’s biblical.
I’m missing…
Your attempts at pushing my buttons, playing Fat Cake, hearing you say ‘bummer’, ‘fixin to’, ‘fanger’, ‘noooo’, and all the other ridiculous things you’d say.
Reese (Sherese), your slow to talk and quick to listen. You hear people from where
they’re at and show empathy. You’re transparent and vulnerable with those who matter most to you. Also, your sense of urgency when it comes to ministry and in general is inspiring. You don’t let things get swept under the rug.
From you I’ve learned…
Feelings are okay and hiding only makes things worse, so trust the people around you and be vulnerable with them, they want to know where you’re truly at. I’ve also learned more about discernment and what true empathy looks like.
I’m missing…
Dancing with you, whether it’s performing Closer for the 100th time or in a field when we’re suppose to be raking!
Josey (Joe), since day one of India you have been fearless and bold. Pushing yourself outside the comfort zone is the natural state you live in, which in-turn encourages others around you to do the same. You call people higher and into deeper faith in the Lord.
From you I’ve learned…
Be intentional from the moment you meet someone, take initiative. You’ve encouraged me in finding my voice, both musically and in leadership.
I’m missing…
Your songs you’d make up about whoever’s in the room, “what are the chances”, half of the shaved head hipsters, leading worship and reminding you you’re not a hipster.
Marley (Marlin), you make people feel welcome, you make everyone feel like they belong. You have a spirit of joy and humor that exudes so much laughter and happiness. At the same time your intentional and seek quality, in-depth thoughts and conversation from people, which is a rare trait in the world we live in.
From you I’ve learned…
Your story, no matter what you’ve been through, ministers to someone, you are not alone, so don’t be afraid to share it, you’ve brought them closer to Christ and their redemption by being real from the beginning. Talk to people as if you’ve known them longer than just the few seconds you’ve been talking to them.
I’m missing…
Your many alter egos (Pastor No-Shirt, Umbutu, Shaniqua, etc.), your hugs at all times of the day, and random raps and beats you Josey bust out into.
Donny (Donavon), your intentional about seeking people out and spending time to get to know their story, where things all started. Your joy for pictures and videos is evident in the work you put out. I’ve loved watching you bring organizations and people’s stories to awareness. The time and care you put into your projects not only effects the viewers, but the people the story is about.
From you I’ve learned…
It’s not about making an amazing story and what you can ‘get’ from someone, it’s about creating the space for people to bring things to light and allowing God to bring redemption to areas they never thought they’d share with anyone else. All people want is our time and the space to be. You never know the last time someone has been able to just process thoughts out loud. It’s a privilege to be present during those times.
I’m missing…
Making throw-up noises with you, playing Fat Cake, and watching yours and Marlin’s shenanigans.
Thank you for everything you’ve done. All of you have radically transformed my life.
Love,
Turn Up Toni
