Hello! My name is Morgan Foldes and my story started on December 18, 1991. I was raised by two loving parents (Mary and Tom), blessed with two incredibly cool siblings (my sister Mackenzie and my brother Michael), and overall had a pretty awesome upbringing. After High School graduation, I attended Iowa State University with a plan in mind for my life. It was detailed, and in my naïve opinion, perfect. I was going to study hard, build my resume, become a physical therapist, find Prince Charming and basically live happily ever after.
Did you see God in that equation? Me neither. I planned my life around my own abilities rather than trusting in His plan for me. Looking back on college I had a great time but was treading water. I was uncomfortable with who I was versus what my soul wanted to become. I devoted myself to my student organizations, finding a taste of the purpose that I so desperately wanted. When my senior year rolled around I slowly began to realize that I had just started on a road of self-discovery.
Turning away from a job that aligned with my 239th version of the “5 Year Plan”, I decided to stop listening to my head and to take a chance on my heart. After much prayer, I chose to pursue one of my passions – student leadership development. Once I made the decision to do so it was as though a weight had been lifted off of my shoulders. I threw out my 5-year plan and the world was filled with endless opportunity and infinite room for growth.
So for the last two years I’ve been working as a Leadership Development Consultant (LDC) for Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women. In this role I have had the opportunity to travel around North America, touching the lives of collegiate women. I strive to have conversations that will encourage the young women of this organization to appreciate the value of giving; recognize that intellect is invaluable; lead with integrity and gain confidence through the close bonds of friendship.
During my time on the road, I have spent countless hours reflecting on my relationship with God and I’ve come to a conclusion – I’m a comfortable Christian. I lean on God when waves threaten me, but can be easily distracted from His glory when the water is calm. I first heard Him say “Go” when I took a leap of faith in becoming a Leadership Development Consultant and through my experience have grown closer to Him. His call is what has challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, specifically as a Christian, but as I look to the future the call is still there – “Go”.
And that, my friends, is what has brought me to this moment with you. In response to that call I have decided to take a dive into uncharted waters (WAY out of my comfort zone). I have decided to join the World Race. On this journey I will celebrate God’s goodness when the water is calm, and lean solely on Him when there are storms. If you could, please pray for my eyes to be open to see His goodness; my ears to be open to listen carefully to His call; and my heart to be open to share His love with His children around the world. Pray for the Holy Spirit to fill me with strength, good health and more than anything, please pray that my squad and I can be stewards of God’s love, mercy and peace.
