Friday, 07 August 2009

• The Closing of My College Helped Me Grow Closer to God

  Growing up, I would have never imagined that I would actually miss being in some form of school. I remember how badly I longed to be out of high school. My first two years of college, I spent living at home going to a community college. It was a relief when I got my associates degree. I was ready for something better, but I had little idea how much that “better” would change my life. I choose my next college for its writing program, its community, and its Christian standing.

  The past two years of my life have been some of the most enjoyable times I have ever had. I’ve created some of the best friendships I will ever have. I learned what I desired to know about my career path. Along the way, I was in classes focusing on Christianity. General education studies at my school included classes such as Biblical Literature 1+2, Contemporary Christian Belief, and Historic Christian Belief. At times, I felt like my beliefs were getting empty with having so much classroom time on topics of Christianity.

  This past fall changed everything about my college and about how I experienced the love of God through my brothers and sisters in Christ. My college was a sister school. In the fall semester, our campus was called to gather together. As we sat around not knowing what was happening, we were given the news that our campus was closing in May. Disappointment, bitterness, and disbelief fell upon the student body as students had to again search for direction.

  As the weeks went on after the announcement, I saw a great change in the student body. While the closing of our campus was affecting us, it also gave us the opportunity, as not only the body of the school, but also as the body of Christ, to impact the community. Our college played a large role in the community by helping out in various ways and by having students do their practicum around the city. We were able to show the community the application of our faith during a challenging time.

  By showing the community our consistent love for God and for others, we not only impacted the community but also impacted each other as well. It makes me slightly sad when I go to the store and see the large signs “Back to College” or “Dorm Items.” As a graduate, my college time is over for now, but I will always remember how God moved and used his people.

  Have you ever had a unfortunate circumstance which enabled you to grow closer to God?

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