i’ve been thinking long and hard about this missions trip. the friendships formed and strengthened, and the work completed. nothing has ever impacted me more than Jesus Christ. He brought me out of my unknown darkness, and even when i chose (and still try and choose) to run away from Him, he holds me close, loving us more than we deserve to be loved. He blessed me in Mexico with great health and a strong heart and body to serve, and i am so grateful. right behind that is the family He has given me through knowing Him. This family of youth is who SHOWED me to love of Jesus when i didn’t want to search for Him myself. 6 years ago, they adopted me into this family with open arms ready to give friendship. youth group has shifted drastically from when i began, but i couldn’t be happier to have lived my life through it. these friends are for a lifetime, and not seeing them every sunday after 4, 5, 6, or 7 years of doing so will be a transition. to youth group, thank you for allowing me to grow closer with you all and with our father. He has blessed us beyond words. all we can do now is show this love and light to the world. i love you all with the bottom of my heart and i can’t thank you enough for what you have done. those who drive me, fed me, clothed me, made my recovery enjoyable. i truly don’t think i would be standing today with the hope i have if i didn’t have you all to show me its possible. one more sunday night, but these friends, memories, and salvation are forever. “Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.” Colossians 2:6-7 smiller loves you just as much as she loves the 2024-2019 comparison of her, carter, and collin on slides 9&10 :)