The early appearance of Kenton in my 100 people I met in college comes to you do to the fact that he asked me to. There is no shame in admitting it. It was coming eventually, but during my last encounter with him, he made it clear that he was ready to be the star of Monday's Meet. Which is exactly part of the reason he is so dear to my heart. No one else in my life would probably even care much less flat out tell me with such gusto. That's what makes my friendship with Kenton so special. Honesty. We have seen the best and the worst of each other. Through it all, our ability to be gut wrenching truthful has remained. Most of the time there isn't even a need to try to say it with kooth just as long as it is frank and to the point. As far as personality goes, its hard to describe. When I try I end up just shrugging my shoulders and saying, "I don't know, he's just Kenton." One of a kind. To others he may seem overly energetic but to me he has a presence that brings people out of their shells a little to be more real with themselves. This guy is the type that will say what everyone else won't admit they are thinking. And with no apologies. He is who he is. Even if that's a crazy UofL fan! There are more "remember when" moments with him than I can count. He doesn't like to admit it, but I really did teach him everything I know. Skipping class may have been on the list, which probably wasn't a good idea. But heck, I didn't turn out so bad! No matter the weather a good long talk on the campus swings could cure many a bad day. Our friendship grew as I learned more about Kenton than most people know putting many miles on the ole faithful cavalier. I have never been the type to have lots of close guy friends, but he has defined for me what that role looks like. He has never treated me any less than a gentleman should giving me a clear standard to hold other men to. We have depended on each other like any brother and sister would. That's exactly what we are, a brother and sister in Christ living like family. We have seen each other through lots of mistakes big and small. While its true that I can't always defend Kenton's actions (nor he defend mine), I will always defend his heart. He is a good man.Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Meet Kenton
The early appearance of Kenton in my 100 people I met in college comes to you do to the fact that he asked me to. There is no shame in admitting it. It was coming eventually, but during my last encounter with him, he made it clear that he was ready to be the star of Monday's Meet. Which is exactly part of the reason he is so dear to my heart. No one else in my life would probably even care much less flat out tell me with such gusto. That's what makes my friendship with Kenton so special. Honesty. We have seen the best and the worst of each other. Through it all, our ability to be gut wrenching truthful has remained. Most of the time there isn't even a need to try to say it with kooth just as long as it is frank and to the point. As far as personality goes, its hard to describe. When I try I end up just shrugging my shoulders and saying, "I don't know, he's just Kenton." One of a kind. To others he may seem overly energetic but to me he has a presence that brings people out of their shells a little to be more real with themselves. This guy is the type that will say what everyone else won't admit they are thinking. And with no apologies. He is who he is. Even if that's a crazy UofL fan! There are more "remember when" moments with him than I can count. He doesn't like to admit it, but I really did teach him everything I know. Skipping class may have been on the list, which probably wasn't a good idea. But heck, I didn't turn out so bad! No matter the weather a good long talk on the campus swings could cure many a bad day. Our friendship grew as I learned more about Kenton than most people know putting many miles on the ole faithful cavalier. I have never been the type to have lots of close guy friends, but he has defined for me what that role looks like. He has never treated me any less than a gentleman should giving me a clear standard to hold other men to. We have depended on each other like any brother and sister would. That's exactly what we are, a brother and sister in Christ living like family. We have seen each other through lots of mistakes big and small. While its true that I can't always defend Kenton's actions (nor he defend mine), I will always defend his heart. He is a good man.
Meet Jazz
Preface: The theme of this came out of a silly idea to compile sort of a personality profile including 100 people I met in college. As my list grows of individuals to write about, my feelings about this whole idea have changed. It has gone from "look how different my friends are ha ha ha" to "wow, he/she really impacted my life." As cliche as it sounds, each one of them have been part of the journey to who I have become. That is so cliche that it almost makes me feel dumb to even type it, but it is undeniable. Some have been a big part of helping me let of go the past, some have laid a foundation of footsteps I want to follow in, and some have shown me exactly the person to never be again. In some way, every college age person goes through this. It really is the time that shapes us. We are shaped by each person that enters our journey and the path that they are on as well. With that said, my heart is thankful for the randomness of those I met in college!
With that said, let me journey back to where it all began! Meet Jazz!
My first impression of this lovely gal was a quite interesting one. We had communicated over email after finding out that we would be roommates at Campbellsville, but you still never know what exactly you are getting yourself into. As we moved in that fall day, bags and boxes started to empty and our personal touches started to be placed around the room. Now, it didn't take long for us to connect as we were both full of energy and excitement to be there. We seemed a lot a like, with similar interests and likes. Which was somewhat true. Then again, I couldn't help but to notice some of the things she was unpacking. The best example of this is the posters: first one up was multicolored butterflies, second one up was puppies, third one up was Good Charlotte, forth one up was Avril Lavine with hot pink lips. Until we got to know each other better, I was convinced my roommate had multiple personalities with her black knee high zipper boots and flowery tank tops . It turned out that she was completely normal and absolutely precious. When the word unique is used, even if not purposeful, it sometimes holds a negative connotation. Jazz gives that word the most positive meaning possible. The girl just does her own thing, and loves every minute of it. Her joy seems impossible to be true, but it is! Our hall was the hall of misfit toys, which could have been miserable since we were so different, but with Jazz it was nothing but fun! Funny experiences just followed us. That year held tough times for both of us, but her will to fight them exceeded any effort I had ever seen. Nothing would make her give up on a worthy cause. Lucky for me, she saw me as a worthy cause. This friend was one that would defend me to the death even if I was wrong. When I think about her, my heart gets heavy wishing that I would have been half of the friend she was to me. See, I got distracted by others a lot, and it caused me to neglect and take her way for granted. If going back was possible one of the few things I would do differently is to show her then how much she meant to me. We worked together on a summer mission team, and decided to take a break from being roommates the next semester. No doubt, the time apart was needed, but one semester would have been enough. While the feeling might not have been mutual I never stopped missing her as my roommate. However, her friendship taught me to never assume someone knows their importance in your life. She's a jewel with a heart of gold. But for sure we had some good times!
With that said, let me journey back to where it all began! Meet Jazz!
My first impression of this lovely gal was a quite interesting one. We had communicated over email after finding out that we would be roommates at Campbellsville, but you still never know what exactly you are getting yourself into. As we moved in that fall day, bags and boxes started to empty and our personal touches started to be placed around the room. Now, it didn't take long for us to connect as we were both full of energy and excitement to be there. We seemed a lot a like, with similar interests and likes. Which was somewhat true. Then again, I couldn't help but to notice some of the things she was unpacking. The best example of this is the posters: first one up was multicolored butterflies, second one up was puppies, third one up was Good Charlotte, forth one up was Avril Lavine with hot pink lips. Until we got to know each other better, I was convinced my roommate had multiple personalities with her black knee high zipper boots and flowery tank tops . It turned out that she was completely normal and absolutely precious. When the word unique is used, even if not purposeful, it sometimes holds a negative connotation. Jazz gives that word the most positive meaning possible. The girl just does her own thing, and loves every minute of it. Her joy seems impossible to be true, but it is! Our hall was the hall of misfit toys, which could have been miserable since we were so different, but with Jazz it was nothing but fun! Funny experiences just followed us. That year held tough times for both of us, but her will to fight them exceeded any effort I had ever seen. Nothing would make her give up on a worthy cause. Lucky for me, she saw me as a worthy cause. This friend was one that would defend me to the death even if I was wrong. When I think about her, my heart gets heavy wishing that I would have been half of the friend she was to me. See, I got distracted by others a lot, and it caused me to neglect and take her way for granted. If going back was possible one of the few things I would do differently is to show her then how much she meant to me. We worked together on a summer mission team, and decided to take a break from being roommates the next semester. No doubt, the time apart was needed, but one semester would have been enough. While the feeling might not have been mutual I never stopped missing her as my roommate. However, her friendship taught me to never assume someone knows their importance in your life. She's a jewel with a heart of gold. But for sure we had some good times!
Meet Charity
Meet Charity. We met in my first class of my first day of college. Its hard to say what exactly happened after that. Eventually me and the girl in the seat to my left would become affectionately referred to as Chebert. She was a friend to me beyond being able to describe. Tough times came and went, but other ones always found their way back around. That's life. We experienced life. There is no doubt that we had many good times along with the bad. Charity is the kind of person that can draw anyone to herself. She is a zealot, doing everything she does with enthusiasm and persistence. It was contagious too. Laughter came hourly. Giving up wasn't ever an option. Listening seemed effortless. We dug deep into each other's pasts, allowing wounds to heal, and standing by each other's side as we faced our hurts. Leadership ran through her veins. She was a natural at it. She was a hugger, as was I. Not only was she my best friend, but my roommate. And a good one at that. We never were necessarily a lot alike, but Charity had a gift of becoming interested in whatever the important people in her life were interested in. I tried my best to do the same. Its hard for me to admit, but I was always jealous of her mad djmbe skills. Her heart was truly genuine. She cared like nobody I have ever met. We spent all of our time together. Sometime we grained on each other's nerves so badly, but most of the time was so much fun. You don't have to go far to find someone that will tell you about how competitive she was. They probably found out playing Nerts or Guitar Hero. We made mistakes. We had hard times. We had fights. Things weren't always the best, but we always came out of it stronger. I will treasure our friendship forever. Lots and lots of pictures taken will sometimes make me cry and other times make me laugh.Back in Feburary I recieved a phone call from my dear friend Charity. It very well may have been the last. Without going into much detial, she called to inform me that she was choosing to cut ties with me all together. As you can imagine, this has been a very tough reality for me to come to terms with. I pray for my friend every day. She is dearly missed as an active part of my life. A favorite song of both of ours in college talks about the times when faith has to run deep. During tough times we would both cling to those lyrics for dear life. Tonight, I heard that song. This is when faith runs deep.
In closing, I will leave you with what I most look forward to with my friend Charity.
"When we arrive at eternity's shore
Where death is just a memory and tears are no more
We'll enter in as the wedding bells ring
HIS BRIDE WILL COME TOGETHER
And we'll sing, You're Beautiful!"
Meet Teresa
You never know how important someone may become in your life. To be honest she started out as one of those people that is always in the background of your life. Being connected more to the people around you than having a friendship of your own. Somehow without realizing it, that all changed. We became friends.
It would take an awful lot to convince me that there is anybody in the world that has met Teresa that didn't like her. We sure had some good times. Most of my stories that start, "This one time in college," not only include her, but were probably her idea. Just to name a few: rubber ducking someone's house, faking an attack in the street, making multiple costumes, driving to North Carolina overnight, actors of the week, and drive by cap gun shootings. Although it was true most of the time, it wasn't fun and games all of the time. Her example and encouragement drew me closer to God than I have ever been. As I wrestled through insecurities and doubts, she supported me by searching together for answers and hope. She lives her passion for sharing the Word with the nations. Not only is Teresa full of ideas but she is also full of the means to accomplish what she sets her mind to. You could sit and talk to her for hours about who knows what, but I assure you the conversation would never be dull. She makes you think about the superficial and important things by asking questions that nobody else would think to ask. She is naturally comfortable to be around. Teresa is accepting of anybody without judgement or assumption. Expect adventure when you are around her. She lives the life of a servant leader as she would go to great lengths to do anything for someone in need. As long as its important to her, its important to those around her. Distance comes with being her friend, but loyalty remains.
It would take an awful lot to convince me that there is anybody in the world that has met Teresa that didn't like her. We sure had some good times. Most of my stories that start, "This one time in college," not only include her, but were probably her idea. Just to name a few: rubber ducking someone's house, faking an attack in the street, making multiple costumes, driving to North Carolina overnight, actors of the week, and drive by cap gun shootings. Although it was true most of the time, it wasn't fun and games all of the time. Her example and encouragement drew me closer to God than I have ever been. As I wrestled through insecurities and doubts, she supported me by searching together for answers and hope. She lives her passion for sharing the Word with the nations. Not only is Teresa full of ideas but she is also full of the means to accomplish what she sets her mind to. You could sit and talk to her for hours about who knows what, but I assure you the conversation would never be dull. She makes you think about the superficial and important things by asking questions that nobody else would think to ask. She is naturally comfortable to be around. Teresa is accepting of anybody without judgement or assumption. Expect adventure when you are around her. She lives the life of a servant leader as she would go to great lengths to do anything for someone in need. As long as its important to her, its important to those around her. Distance comes with being her friend, but loyalty remains.
Meet Joanna
Meet Joanna.Some would describe her as a tree hugger. Passionate is the word I choose. Its true that she is all about trying to save the planet, but she is the least annoying tree hugger I've ever met. Talking about it, and doing it are two very different things. She lives what she speaks! In fact, she has been very informative. My lifestyle has changed some because of knowing her. Outside of her passion for science, her personality is fun. You never have to wonder what Joanna is feeling. You can see it all over her face. If she is having a good day, she will be the most bubbly person you could imagine. If she is having a bad day, you will be able to tell within ten seconds. Joanna is a hard worker. We have worked together on and off for a couple of years, and I have yet to see her be lazy. She is committed to her work no matter what it is. She is a helper. Constatnly checking to see if the people around her need anything. She serves gladly. Gerbra daisies are her favorite flower, hince the name of her cat. She knows Friends backwards and fowards. She eats vegtables like its her job. She doesn't eat meat. From Joanna I have learn that you can be passionate about something without being over the top. Also to recycle, reduce, and reuse.
Meet Sarah
For several months now I have considered writing a book (not necessarily for publication) called, "100 People I met In College." The five years that I spent getting a higher education taught me more about personalities, friendship, and myself than my area of study ever dreamed of doing. With that said, this blog will begin my journey of compiling a tangible reminder of all the interesting individuals that have crossed my path.
To begin: Meet Sarah.
While I am the definition of an extrovert, she is the complete opposite. Some would say its a wonder we are friends, while others question if we are sisters. Quiet, but quick-witted. Sarcastic, but sweet. Honest, but honestly lies. She is wonderful. There is no doubt that she is called to teach. One of the most important things she taught me is to teach myself. In the end, the only one responsible for what I think, is me. Not only that, but she is a lifelong learner as well, absorbing everything. Her heart breaks over injustice, but lacks mercy when it comes to stupidity. Someone once described her as childlike, but not childish. It fits. Her unpredictability makes being her friend an adventure in itself. Her love for Christ is contagous and inspiring. So is her love for her family, blood and otherwise. It doesn't take long to see that she is willing to give of herself for others. She has given so much for me. One day children will be lucky to call her mom. She looks forward to it everyday. If she was meant to live in a different time period it would be the 40's, as she lives to be classy. Her usage of big words points to her hobby of reading. As time passes, she never ceases to surprise me. Her perspective usually puts mine to the test. She is my accountablity, teacher, inspiration, and most importantly, my best friend.
To begin: Meet Sarah.
While I am the definition of an extrovert, she is the complete opposite. Some would say its a wonder we are friends, while others question if we are sisters. Quiet, but quick-witted. Sarcastic, but sweet. Honest, but honestly lies. She is wonderful. There is no doubt that she is called to teach. One of the most important things she taught me is to teach myself. In the end, the only one responsible for what I think, is me. Not only that, but she is a lifelong learner as well, absorbing everything. Her heart breaks over injustice, but lacks mercy when it comes to stupidity. Someone once described her as childlike, but not childish. It fits. Her unpredictability makes being her friend an adventure in itself. Her love for Christ is contagous and inspiring. So is her love for her family, blood and otherwise. It doesn't take long to see that she is willing to give of herself for others. She has given so much for me. One day children will be lucky to call her mom. She looks forward to it everyday. If she was meant to live in a different time period it would be the 40's, as she lives to be classy. Her usage of big words points to her hobby of reading. As time passes, she never ceases to surprise me. Her perspective usually puts mine to the test. She is my accountablity, teacher, inspiration, and most importantly, my best friend.
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