I grew up in Christian home, where we went to church every Sunday. I enjoyed going to Sunday school and confirmation, but I never fully understood why I was going, I just knew I was supposed to be there. Once I entered high school, I went on several mission trips, and got my first glimpse…
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Growing up, athletics and academics came very natural to me. I loved playing football, baseball, hockey, basketball, and soccer and became super competitive. Likewise, at school I was always trying to be the best. I ended up placing a lot of my identity in my ability and reputation as a student and an athlete. Growing…
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Before I surrendered my life to Jesus, I was living for others’ acceptance and for my own gain. I put my self-worth in anything and everything, from academic performance to athletics to my future professional success and wealth. You name it, I tried to put my identity into it. I was desperately and constantly seeking…
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Throughout my life, I have had a lot of experiences, both good, and bad. I’ve had periods when I am in the mountains, where I feel like God is standing right next to me. I’ve also had plenty of times in the valley, where I’m not even sure if I truly believe anymore. I have…
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There is often a fine line between fitting in, and finding yourself. For me, there was a constant back and forth between who I wanted to be and who others thought I “should” be. I constantly sought the acceptance and approval of others through grades, sports and friendships. I thought I had my life figured…
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My story isn’t about choosing to believe in God, and giving Him my life; growing up in a Christian home, I understood from a young age that I need God, and had started a personal relationship with Him practically before I knew my ABC’s. No, my story is instead about trusting in God with the…
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Many high school classmates might have described me as arrogant, and some would have even labeled me a bully. I was on the football and swimming team, and I used those sports positions to intimidate those around me, who were smaller and weaker. I was proud of my German heritage and my accomplishments, and I…
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Growing up going to church with my family, I could spit doctrine and verbalize a belief in Jesus, but I only lived it out when it was convenient for me. I talked about it when I was a captain of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, in church youth group, or with my mom when I had…
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Throughout my life, I have relied on relationships with other people, to the point where I was idolizing them. I’ve always feared being alone, and so I put myself in bad relationships or focused too much on relationships. Whether it be with boys, friends, or my parents, I relied too heavily on them. This worked…
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In high school, I was involved in a long-term relationship. Being with him made me feel like I belonged. I thought the relationship would bring me joy, especially as I watched my mom fight through alcoholism and depression. I missed almost more school than I attended because of chronic migraines. I pushed away everyone who…
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