Winding Down

It seems like I have only been at the beach for about a week now. I don't feel like I have gotten to know too many of the people here. Maybe that is just me complaining, but I wish that we would have been more intentional about building relationships.

I just got done talking with some people here though and have begun to realize that it isn't feasible to expect a relationship with everyone here. I mean, we might be lucky if we all get to hang out again together at Jubilee next year.

Things I will miss:

Sarah always putting me in some awkward situation: 'Hey, Jake, are you going to miss me? Isn't Anna beautiful?' just to name a few. What would the summer have been without these moments though. Sarah, I hope that you read this so that you know that I will truly miss you and that you added a lot to this community. Your attitude and thoughts changed me quite a bit.

One-on-ones with Jeff: I don't think that I could do any justice to the things that you taught me in our meeting times. I just want to thank you for the inspiration you have been to me over the last nine weeks.

Late night talks: To all of you who decided to stay up with me until 2 or 3 in the morning towards the end of the project, I thank you. It isn't easy to get up for work the next morning, but it is totally worth it. I wish that I would be able to hang out with you guys next year when I am back at school and on duty.

Bickering with Jenn while doing dishes: Oh, Beth, what would Tuesday night clean-ups have been without Jenn and I bothering each other? It might have been a bit nicer in the kitchen, but not nearly as much fun. Jenn, continue to seek out answers and you will do just fine.

Awesome speakers and learning: To Chris, Derek, Allie, Carlous, Andy, Byron, Ken, and Shelby, you are all amazing. It was a true blessing to hear you speak. None of you will probably read this, but it is worth mentioning. I just want you to know that you all have made me grow in my understanding of my faith and what it looks like lived out daily.

There are so many other things that I am going to miss, but right now it hurts my heart too much to go on. I will truly miss this summer. I don't have any regrets, but I don't want to leave (It is funny that I told Ryan and Lizz that I didn't want to come the day before I left and to see how much that has changed).