My name is Taite Ainsley Rodriguez, I am 18 years old. Some things that bring me joy are; abstract concepts, expressing myself through the works of a paintbrush, and of course the goodness of God. I was born and raised in Allen, Texas enjoying the company of neighborhood friends and commonly referring to groups of people as, “y’all”. I am the daughter of a vibrant, hispanic man by the name of Ralph and a spunky, caucasian woman named, Donna. I am the sister of Drake, a musician and Jett, the ultimate thinker.
I am a sinner made new through the son of God, Jesus Christ; I am ignited with passion that burns for the present moment. The one thing that sparked this incredible passion in my life is my personal relationship with Jesus Christ. God took what was dead inside of me and began to transform it into something very alive. Now, through God my heart yearns for a life that is radical and impactful. God has planted a seed inside of my soul intended to grow into a beautiful apple tree. I believe God is watering this small tree so eventually he can produce hundreds of ripe apples through the vessel he has created. God willing, these apples will feed many and of course use the seeds to plant additional apple trees for his purposes.
What has turned this seed into a small tree? Simply, purpose. God has given me an immense amount of purpose. Through pain and ache, I have found God not only to be my strength but also my only reason for existence. Why else would my wondering soul be floating around on what we call Earth. In this discovery, I have come to the realization that God is the creator of the universe in all its complexity and that he designed a plan for my life that is specific to me and my calling.
Calling: a strong urge toward a particular way of life or career; a vocation.
My calling is simple, it is to tell people about the one truth of the universe, Jesus Christ. My God has called me to tell people of his infinite grace and everlasting love.
There are various people who encouraged me to take a step towards knowing his grace. My Father has played an integral part of my devotion to Christ. My Dad in particular has been an example of the grace of God in his life and testimony. He has shown me that God can take ANY situation and reconcile, heal, and make new. God has truly given me a deep rooted peace. While I know I am a sinner, and human, I struggle with many things. I get worried, unorganized, discouraged, and weak BUT my secret is this; God takes care of all those things, so my baggage is light and easy to carry.
This upcoming year has me a little intimidated. However, I am confident that God has me exactly where he wants me and he intends to take care of me. He is going to work, move rapidly, reveal himself vividly, and change the hearts and lives of many but I anticipate the changes in me the most. The world race seems perfect for my adventurous spirit and is going to create a shift in my spirit that will last an eternity. While I know I will be scared, I will be be homesick, and I will be met with resistance, the God of the universe will be walking by my side every step of the way.
