Even though this mini series of posts wasn't supposed to be emotional, I keep getting feedback that I'm making people cry. Don't worry, as I type, my eyes aren't staying dry, either.
On this installment of Parting Words, I would like to say thanks and give encouragement to a few of my best friends, co-laborers and fellow staff members. Also I would like for you to know that I'm going to extend this to a Part 4 which will include similar feelings to parents and other friends of FPC.
So here we go:
To George: I love your candor. In many ways I am like you. I so appreciate how you keep me in the loop about everything, even when it is about how I have angered or befuddled you. But you are my friend, you've never left my side or questioned me without genuine concern. In many ways I know Jeremy's experience with Christ is due to God working in your life and he seeing Jesus through you. I pray to have another person like you around wherever I go.
To Jared: You're a solid guy, full of integrity, your word is your bond. You have a heart for serving people that few your age have (and yes, I've been around plenty of college students your age). I thank you for your time, passion and commitment to the band on Wednesday nights. I always knew I could trust and rely on you. I wish I was going to be around more to help you take on any venture you're in, because you've helped me so much and I'm in your debt:)
To William: The complete package is not Lex Luger but you, William (pardon me if you didn't catch that 90s professional wrestling pun). You're a brilliant guy, charming, handsome but what really defines you is your demeanor, gentleness and direct reflection of Christ himself. There is truly nothing that you cannot accomplish because you're completely open to being used by God and that's all it takes. It was a privilege to serve with you and to be your friend.
To Ethan: Sometimes I wish that me and you were in high school together when we were younger. You and I would've been best friends (not like I don't consider you right now, by the way). What I like about you is that I've never seen you really down, maybe quiet, pensive and mentally beaten but you've never stopped loving people. That is something I've had the privilege to observe in your life. You are 100% love, dude. That is why students are so attracted to you. It's not the look, the music or the happy-go-lucky attitude, but the love you have that the students are drawn to.
To Solomon: I will always remember what you said a couple Wednesday nights ago, "I would take a bullet for you. Well, I'll take one for anybody." And if people know you, they know that those words aren't Christian propaganda but true words from your soul. You would do anything for me, like Jesus himself, I'm sure that you would never leave me or forsake me. In other words, it's really hard to leave you behind:/ I love you, Solomon.
To Lisa Moen: You're the wildest chick I've probably ever met and I say that as a compliment because you're loud joy comes from the Lord. You've faced more in your life than most of us have, but the coolest thing is that you have probably the most joy of all us, too. It's something that confirms to me and I'm sure to the others around you that God resides in you.
To Lisa Cason: Just the other day, Jenny was saying how hard its going to be to leave you behind because, finally, for once in her life she has a friend that she feels she can be completely transparent to. She knows you won't judge, you'll listen, be slow to speak and quick to compassion, which, guess what Lisa? That's exactly how a true Christ-follower is defined in God's Word.
To Shelby: I only have one regret regarding you, Shelby Lynn. That is, I wish you had been here at FPC earlier. Even though we don't talk that much I feel like we've been close friends for awhile. I pray God gives you not only the desires of your heart but even greater things that you don't ask for because of their unimaginable goodness. You will do great things and have the potential to mentor tons of young ladies, if you choose. You should because they already look up to you:)
To Jason: Sure we've had our ups and downs. That doesn't mean I stopped caring, loving, praying or supporting you. God has given you your biggest desire (three times over now!) and I'm sure it's filled your emotional tank, even though sleep deprivation might be true, as well. Thank you so much for all you've done, the passion you've poured into your teaching and for the lessons you've taught me. When you come back to the ministry, I pray God uses you like He hasn't before to carry on and do greater things at FPC.
To Kate: You're so funny. I don't really believe you have multiple personalities BUT there are times when you give me advice like a motherly figure, kid around with me like a big sister and are spacy as if you were my little sister:) No one can deny your honesty and thoughtfulness. In that way we are like twins. (So, I've counted that you now have four personalities.) It makes you a shoo-in leader for what you do. You have an eye for not only the details but for the people as well. I'll miss you laughing at nothing, your scream-like sneezes, aversion to Mexican food and just talking to you.
To Bob: Thank you so much for listening and counseling me through all my crap. A lot of it, I'm sure, is self-inflicted. If only I could keep my mouth shut sometimes. Throughout all of that, though, you have been supportive, compassionate, full of understanding and a great friend. No one quite rivals the light that clearly emanates from your life. You are an example to me and someone I will never forget. Thank you for all you've done and will do. FPC is blessed to have you.
To Tim: What can I possibly say to thank you, Tim? You have gone out of your way so many times for me. You are the epitome of what we would want for every person who attends FPC. You have a hunger not only for God's Word but also you're eager to learn anything you can to benefit others in any way. It makes it a little easier to leave since I know your heart better than any other volunteer's. I trust you completely. Shoot, I'll name my first son after you! (If you others don't catch that joke we're both Timothy. Jenny and I were already planning on our first son being Timothy Long, III.) Seriously, though, if there's anything you need, any snag you hit, any favor that arises unexpectedly, you call me (you'll probably text, totally fine).
Again, I'm sorry I couldn't list everyone. Thank you all for your time and come back for my last post here soon!
September 23, 2011
September 22, 2011
Parting Words (Part 2)
I pray that many of you got some much needed encouragement from Part 1 of this mini blog series. Today, I wanted to call out some young ladies within our ministry that I feel the need to say more than just goodbye to. As you'll see there are more girls on this than there were guys on the previous list. Sorry about that fellas, it's just that guys generally get more praise so I wanted to focus more on the girls for a change.
So here goes:
To Hunter: You are probably the most unique girl at FPC. You have grown and matured so much. One of your greatest characteristics is that you're honest about your doubts but that doesn't stop you from seeking the truth. In many ways, I hope any future daughter I have is like you in that way:)
To Rebecca Bruton: Becca, your comments after finding out that Jenny & I were leaving were probably the most heartfelt and touching words I've ever read. You have so much going for you. I pray that you lead your friends to Christ and that Danielle and Makayla learn from your oversized heart.
To Dara: How I wish that you had been here the whole time and not just the past 4 months. I enjoy just talking to you, listening to your accent and wondering how God is going to use you. You are much more than a pretty face, you have a personality that you better use to bring people closer to God because I believe that's why he gave that to you:)
To Jena: I hope this doesn't weird you out but if I were a female your age, I think we could be best friends. You are so fun and the way you think and process life is so unique. I will miss you but I will only be one Facebook like away from hearing your next confession:)
To Audrey: If I really would've known that getting the job as hostess at Dragon Buffet would've kept you away from FPC so much, I may sabotaged your application or something. I miss you and will miss you. Even though you don't let many emotions show, I know without a doubt that you are one of the most sincere, compassionate teenagers I've ever met.
To Ashlyn: Jenny & I will both miss you a lot, that's a given. We both really would've loved to stick around to see you not only graduate but to grow and become the beautiful woman of God that you are destined to become. You will always hold a special place in our hearts forever.
To Whitney: You may be soft spoken but your actions always spoke louder than most other people's words. I love your commitment and your graciousness. I know that you are truly thankful for the things you receive and our world would be a much, much better place if people were like you in that way.
To Tiffany: You are the exact opposite of what I described in Whitney in the way of soft spokenness:) Don't get it twisted, though, because I love how you don't take crap you shouldn't take and also how, more than any other student, you've made me feel loved by the cards, letters, drawings and desserts you have made for me these past few years. You WILL be a great mother if you continue to only focus on what truly matters. God, as you know, will come through and provide for you.
To Kelsey: I know that out of all the girls we've met over the past two years, Jenny will probably miss you the most. Ever since the first time you came to my house for a JumpOFF, I was on you to come and visit FPC. I am...so...glad you did. You have inspired Jenny just as much as she has inspired you. She sees so much of herself in you. I only pray that you can find rest in all the drama that's circled around you. You are loved and more valuable than all that crap and I know Austin echoes all this, as he should.
To Codie: Like Audrey, I wish sometimes I could sabotage your body to have a 50-year old woman's metabolism. That way you wouldn't play every sport imaginable and have practice or games on seemingly every night we have an event. I truly believe, that if you want to, you can have the greatest influence of all the Kleins in reaching people for Christ. You have so many great traits of all your family members. You have the beauty, the straightforwardness, the tenderness and also the smarts to do something big. Sports won't be a part of you forever, but God will. Do great things, Codie.
To Maria: Jenny & I both wish that we could've been as brilliant and as devoted to Christ at your age. That comes from having special parents, of course, but also because of your heart. You have a humongous head start on this road of getting to know Jesus and I know that you will use that wisely. You are already serving, growing on your own and supporting friends like a pastor should. Hint hint.
To Jordan Cannon: You are so strong, even though you may not believe that sometimes. Your presence attracts smiles and lifts the mood of every room you walk in. Nothing is given to you, you work hard and I believe you pray hard. I hope God moves in your family because I know that you are the main inspiration your parents have in continuing to follow Christ.
To Christyn: You are much smarter than you give yourself credit for. What I really like about you is that you're stable. You don't have these huge swings of emotions like many others girls have (no offense, ladies). However, you don't hold back your feelings when you need to let 'em go, either. The closer you get to God, the more I know without a shadow of a doubt, that you will bring God's love and light into your family. I'll miss you, Christyn.
To Katie: I could write you a book Katie on all the ways I would want to encourage you. I know that you are an extremely sentimental person. Life has not always been good to you. That's because people screw everything up and even those closest to us can do that. That's been done to you so many times that hope is not like the sun in the sky it's a speck of light you have to constantly look for. Jenny & I pray for you so often. We hated the fact that we had to tell you that we we're leaving. But you have so many people around you that can lift you up, if you let them. Sometimes finding hope is not looking down at all the crap but looking forward to how God is going to use it all. We'll always think of you and be as close to you as you want us to be:)
To Brianna: You know, very well, too how life can be hard even though everything may look perfect on the outside. The truth is, Brianna, that you still have every opportunity to make your life different. Easier said than done, I know. But sometimes you have to slow down and realize that the crap you're in isn't where you have to be. I believe you hold the key to your family's inner strength. I know that you know that you're outer beauty isn't anything unless you have peace. I wish we could sit down a dozen more times and talk. For some unknown reason I feel your emotions like they are my own. I care for you deeply and will miss you.
To Logan & BryHanna: I may have said that both Hunter and Jena are both unique in their own ways, but you two don't really fit any molds, either. You both have been so loving to me. I know that your patience is always being tested in many ways. I know people look at you as being different, WHO CARES WHAT THEY THINK! I love you both and will be here when you need to talk about deciphering the male species, family issues, whatever.
I wish I had more time to write to even more of you. Just know that even though you may not be listed, doesn't mean I haven't thought about you and what you mean to both me and Jenny.
Next up for Part 3, I'm going to give Parting Words to my friends, co-workers and student ministry volunteers at FPC. Thanks for reading:)
So here goes:
To Hunter: You are probably the most unique girl at FPC. You have grown and matured so much. One of your greatest characteristics is that you're honest about your doubts but that doesn't stop you from seeking the truth. In many ways, I hope any future daughter I have is like you in that way:)
To Rebecca Bruton: Becca, your comments after finding out that Jenny & I were leaving were probably the most heartfelt and touching words I've ever read. You have so much going for you. I pray that you lead your friends to Christ and that Danielle and Makayla learn from your oversized heart.
To Dara: How I wish that you had been here the whole time and not just the past 4 months. I enjoy just talking to you, listening to your accent and wondering how God is going to use you. You are much more than a pretty face, you have a personality that you better use to bring people closer to God because I believe that's why he gave that to you:)
To Jena: I hope this doesn't weird you out but if I were a female your age, I think we could be best friends. You are so fun and the way you think and process life is so unique. I will miss you but I will only be one Facebook like away from hearing your next confession:)
To Audrey: If I really would've known that getting the job as hostess at Dragon Buffet would've kept you away from FPC so much, I may sabotaged your application or something. I miss you and will miss you. Even though you don't let many emotions show, I know without a doubt that you are one of the most sincere, compassionate teenagers I've ever met.
To Ashlyn: Jenny & I will both miss you a lot, that's a given. We both really would've loved to stick around to see you not only graduate but to grow and become the beautiful woman of God that you are destined to become. You will always hold a special place in our hearts forever.
To Whitney: You may be soft spoken but your actions always spoke louder than most other people's words. I love your commitment and your graciousness. I know that you are truly thankful for the things you receive and our world would be a much, much better place if people were like you in that way.
To Tiffany: You are the exact opposite of what I described in Whitney in the way of soft spokenness:) Don't get it twisted, though, because I love how you don't take crap you shouldn't take and also how, more than any other student, you've made me feel loved by the cards, letters, drawings and desserts you have made for me these past few years. You WILL be a great mother if you continue to only focus on what truly matters. God, as you know, will come through and provide for you.
To Kelsey: I know that out of all the girls we've met over the past two years, Jenny will probably miss you the most. Ever since the first time you came to my house for a JumpOFF, I was on you to come and visit FPC. I am...so...glad you did. You have inspired Jenny just as much as she has inspired you. She sees so much of herself in you. I only pray that you can find rest in all the drama that's circled around you. You are loved and more valuable than all that crap and I know Austin echoes all this, as he should.
To Codie: Like Audrey, I wish sometimes I could sabotage your body to have a 50-year old woman's metabolism. That way you wouldn't play every sport imaginable and have practice or games on seemingly every night we have an event. I truly believe, that if you want to, you can have the greatest influence of all the Kleins in reaching people for Christ. You have so many great traits of all your family members. You have the beauty, the straightforwardness, the tenderness and also the smarts to do something big. Sports won't be a part of you forever, but God will. Do great things, Codie.
To Maria: Jenny & I both wish that we could've been as brilliant and as devoted to Christ at your age. That comes from having special parents, of course, but also because of your heart. You have a humongous head start on this road of getting to know Jesus and I know that you will use that wisely. You are already serving, growing on your own and supporting friends like a pastor should. Hint hint.
To Jordan Cannon: You are so strong, even though you may not believe that sometimes. Your presence attracts smiles and lifts the mood of every room you walk in. Nothing is given to you, you work hard and I believe you pray hard. I hope God moves in your family because I know that you are the main inspiration your parents have in continuing to follow Christ.
To Christyn: You are much smarter than you give yourself credit for. What I really like about you is that you're stable. You don't have these huge swings of emotions like many others girls have (no offense, ladies). However, you don't hold back your feelings when you need to let 'em go, either. The closer you get to God, the more I know without a shadow of a doubt, that you will bring God's love and light into your family. I'll miss you, Christyn.
To Katie: I could write you a book Katie on all the ways I would want to encourage you. I know that you are an extremely sentimental person. Life has not always been good to you. That's because people screw everything up and even those closest to us can do that. That's been done to you so many times that hope is not like the sun in the sky it's a speck of light you have to constantly look for. Jenny & I pray for you so often. We hated the fact that we had to tell you that we we're leaving. But you have so many people around you that can lift you up, if you let them. Sometimes finding hope is not looking down at all the crap but looking forward to how God is going to use it all. We'll always think of you and be as close to you as you want us to be:)
To Brianna: You know, very well, too how life can be hard even though everything may look perfect on the outside. The truth is, Brianna, that you still have every opportunity to make your life different. Easier said than done, I know. But sometimes you have to slow down and realize that the crap you're in isn't where you have to be. I believe you hold the key to your family's inner strength. I know that you know that you're outer beauty isn't anything unless you have peace. I wish we could sit down a dozen more times and talk. For some unknown reason I feel your emotions like they are my own. I care for you deeply and will miss you.
To Logan & BryHanna: I may have said that both Hunter and Jena are both unique in their own ways, but you two don't really fit any molds, either. You both have been so loving to me. I know that your patience is always being tested in many ways. I know people look at you as being different, WHO CARES WHAT THEY THINK! I love you both and will be here when you need to talk about deciphering the male species, family issues, whatever.
I wish I had more time to write to even more of you. Just know that even though you may not be listed, doesn't mean I haven't thought about you and what you mean to both me and Jenny.
Next up for Part 3, I'm going to give Parting Words to my friends, co-workers and student ministry volunteers at FPC. Thanks for reading:)
September 20, 2011
Parting Words (Part 1)
It has been 9 months since my last blog post, sorry for the long layoff.
If you're a part of Forest Park Church or are a avid subscriber of church gossip, you probably already know that Jenny & I are leaving FPC behind in less than 2 weeks. It has been one of the most difficult 2 months in my life, but it will also prove to be rewarding, I pray, in the long run.
Jenny & I do not know exactly where we'll end up. Some call that idiocy others a leap of faith; depending on the day is how I interpret that myself. All I know is that my prayer life is pretty strong at the moment:)
For the next 3 posts, I wanted to take an opportunity to say some parting words of thanks and encouragement. The next two posts will give it up for the students (part 1 for the guys, part 2 for the girls). In part 3 I'll give out some fictitious awards to some of the men & women I've served with at FPC.
First of all,
Students of FPC: I love you all, if I had the time I would write a 30-page post with a paragraph for each of you that I have gotten to know over the last 2.5 years. You all are the reason I love what God has called me to do. You are the main reason why it's oh so very hard to say goodbye. On days when I was feeling useless, depressed, whatever, a Wednesday night with you made everything seem right in the world. Apart from you will be a task in redefining my life, I'm sure for some of you that will be true, as well. I challenge you not to remember just the fun times, but the passion in which I've tried to show you that Jesus is the power behind the love you've felt and the reason for all we've done and will continue to do at FPC.
To Kolt: Man, I love you. I remember your second day in EDGE on a Sunday morning when you were furious that I wouldn't allow you to keep your PSP during the service. So mad that you punched me! Seriously?! You have taken and dished out a lot of crap on Facebook. Some of it was coming to you, others were flat out wrong. Either way, I've always had a heart for you. Even though I tell myself sometimes that you never listen, I've seen how you've matured (you still have a ways to go, don't kid yourself). I'll miss your voice calling my name to tell me some useless fact that I'll remember because I'll have to remind you that you've already told me the next time you try to. You will be missed.
To Tyler: You, Tim, David and I should've been biological brothers because that's how close we are. You remind me of myself in all the good ways. You ask questions, aren't afraid to get advice and are willing to give of yourself until it hurts. No one in this church has grown more than you in the last year. You have so much leadership potential and will succeed in whatever you do because I know you will follow what God lays out for you (or He will "lay" you out, haha).
To Evan: We've had a bumpy ride in our relationship over the past year. You, David and I were inseparable at first, but since I had the dumb idea of trying to lead something I couldn't (i.e. the student band), our relationship was strained. Lately, even before news of me leaving surfaced, I've felt you attempting to show me love more and more. Your conscience, or should I say, your ability to let God permeate your life is unparalleled. Even though you're skill is in music, I believe your destiny lies in ministry. As soon as you figure out and devote yourself to what God has for you, you will soar even more.
To Joe: Sometimes I wish you would show emotion. I know you have a big heart and you could be a HUGE influence if you were to let that out in the open from time to time. Like I've told Trever before, you are the type when you speak, people listen because you don't waste words. You are calm, collected and in control. You are many of the things that I could never be and you do it effortlessly. I anticipate hearing great things from and about you after I'm long gone.
To Jonathan: You're all heart and not afraid to show it. It's kinda ironic that you and Joe are friends, because in many ways you are opposites. In the things that you know you're talented you have confidence, I challenge you, my brother, to be confident in even more. No one gives you credit for just how bright you are. You are like my brother, not just in an emotional way, but literally, just like David and that's a huge compliment because I'd do anything for David and so I would for you.
To Trever: In many ways, you are the total package of what any girl would want in a guy. You are strong (physically & spiritually), aren't afraid to show your emotion, you're willing to lead, to follow and do anything for anyone. In fact, you are what I wanted to be at your age. With that comes a challenge, if you've ever looked up to me, know that you can easily do what I do. You can inspire and lead naturally and if you ever need my help, I will always be here.
To Cory: Out of everyone I've listed here, you have the most potential. You are extremely likeable, charming, brilliant and capable of extraordinary things. Don't divert your focus from your destiny for anything that could hold you back. The ones with the most potential, in my experience, also have the highest probability of squandering their talents. Don't let that happen to you. You are loved, my friend.
To Jordan: I never thought I would grow so attached to you in such a short amount of time (see what Small Groups do?). Being the middle child, I know you may think you get overlooked but I see you and appreciate you. You have your whole life ahead of you and I want you to know that you probably are my favorite Gregory (no offense Tiffany or Whitney).
To Morgan: Like I said to Cory, the ones with the most potential have the highest probability of squandering their talents. This definitely applies to you, too, Morgan. I would consider you to be doubly gifted athletically and academically. Actually, I don't know if any other student I've met is as smart as you are. That definitely doesn't diminish your other attributes. I know you have love for me. I consider you like a little brother. You're one of the hardest to leave behind because I wanted to be beside all the way, I'll just have to do it in a different way than I expected.
To Dustin: You are another quiet, yet welcoming, constant within our church. You're always there, always willing to serve and, from what I hear, are a great friend. I know you are to me. You lead the way in showing other students that serving with adults on Sunday mornings is a honorable task, keep that up. I leave you Austin & Kelsey to take care of because I know you're dependable and trustworthy.
To Paris: I have great hope for you, my friend. I pray that you no matter what negatively gets around you that you will know what is most important. You've impressed me with your demeanor, your Bible knowledge and your respect towards me. Don't let that stop in the future.
To Waverly & Tyler Perez: I think and pray for you two young men often. Both of you have so much more to offer than what you're putting out at the moment. You have humbled me at times and left me speechless at others. Both of you know very well what God expects from you, I just pray that you drop all the drama, mend the important relationships, check your pride and get on with what God wants you to do, not just what you want. I love you two and I know life has dealt each of you a difficult hand, but you can overcome but not by just your own strength.
That's it for Part 1, come back and check out what girls will receive a Parting Word.
Love you all,
TJ
If you're a part of Forest Park Church or are a avid subscriber of church gossip, you probably already know that Jenny & I are leaving FPC behind in less than 2 weeks. It has been one of the most difficult 2 months in my life, but it will also prove to be rewarding, I pray, in the long run.
Jenny & I do not know exactly where we'll end up. Some call that idiocy others a leap of faith; depending on the day is how I interpret that myself. All I know is that my prayer life is pretty strong at the moment:)
For the next 3 posts, I wanted to take an opportunity to say some parting words of thanks and encouragement. The next two posts will give it up for the students (part 1 for the guys, part 2 for the girls). In part 3 I'll give out some fictitious awards to some of the men & women I've served with at FPC.
First of all,
Students of FPC: I love you all, if I had the time I would write a 30-page post with a paragraph for each of you that I have gotten to know over the last 2.5 years. You all are the reason I love what God has called me to do. You are the main reason why it's oh so very hard to say goodbye. On days when I was feeling useless, depressed, whatever, a Wednesday night with you made everything seem right in the world. Apart from you will be a task in redefining my life, I'm sure for some of you that will be true, as well. I challenge you not to remember just the fun times, but the passion in which I've tried to show you that Jesus is the power behind the love you've felt and the reason for all we've done and will continue to do at FPC.
To Kolt: Man, I love you. I remember your second day in EDGE on a Sunday morning when you were furious that I wouldn't allow you to keep your PSP during the service. So mad that you punched me! Seriously?! You have taken and dished out a lot of crap on Facebook. Some of it was coming to you, others were flat out wrong. Either way, I've always had a heart for you. Even though I tell myself sometimes that you never listen, I've seen how you've matured (you still have a ways to go, don't kid yourself). I'll miss your voice calling my name to tell me some useless fact that I'll remember because I'll have to remind you that you've already told me the next time you try to. You will be missed.
To Tyler: You, Tim, David and I should've been biological brothers because that's how close we are. You remind me of myself in all the good ways. You ask questions, aren't afraid to get advice and are willing to give of yourself until it hurts. No one in this church has grown more than you in the last year. You have so much leadership potential and will succeed in whatever you do because I know you will follow what God lays out for you (or He will "lay" you out, haha).
To Evan: We've had a bumpy ride in our relationship over the past year. You, David and I were inseparable at first, but since I had the dumb idea of trying to lead something I couldn't (i.e. the student band), our relationship was strained. Lately, even before news of me leaving surfaced, I've felt you attempting to show me love more and more. Your conscience, or should I say, your ability to let God permeate your life is unparalleled. Even though you're skill is in music, I believe your destiny lies in ministry. As soon as you figure out and devote yourself to what God has for you, you will soar even more.
To Joe: Sometimes I wish you would show emotion. I know you have a big heart and you could be a HUGE influence if you were to let that out in the open from time to time. Like I've told Trever before, you are the type when you speak, people listen because you don't waste words. You are calm, collected and in control. You are many of the things that I could never be and you do it effortlessly. I anticipate hearing great things from and about you after I'm long gone.
To Jonathan: You're all heart and not afraid to show it. It's kinda ironic that you and Joe are friends, because in many ways you are opposites. In the things that you know you're talented you have confidence, I challenge you, my brother, to be confident in even more. No one gives you credit for just how bright you are. You are like my brother, not just in an emotional way, but literally, just like David and that's a huge compliment because I'd do anything for David and so I would for you.
To Trever: In many ways, you are the total package of what any girl would want in a guy. You are strong (physically & spiritually), aren't afraid to show your emotion, you're willing to lead, to follow and do anything for anyone. In fact, you are what I wanted to be at your age. With that comes a challenge, if you've ever looked up to me, know that you can easily do what I do. You can inspire and lead naturally and if you ever need my help, I will always be here.
To Cory: Out of everyone I've listed here, you have the most potential. You are extremely likeable, charming, brilliant and capable of extraordinary things. Don't divert your focus from your destiny for anything that could hold you back. The ones with the most potential, in my experience, also have the highest probability of squandering their talents. Don't let that happen to you. You are loved, my friend.
To Jordan: I never thought I would grow so attached to you in such a short amount of time (see what Small Groups do?). Being the middle child, I know you may think you get overlooked but I see you and appreciate you. You have your whole life ahead of you and I want you to know that you probably are my favorite Gregory (no offense Tiffany or Whitney).
To Morgan: Like I said to Cory, the ones with the most potential have the highest probability of squandering their talents. This definitely applies to you, too, Morgan. I would consider you to be doubly gifted athletically and academically. Actually, I don't know if any other student I've met is as smart as you are. That definitely doesn't diminish your other attributes. I know you have love for me. I consider you like a little brother. You're one of the hardest to leave behind because I wanted to be beside all the way, I'll just have to do it in a different way than I expected.
To Dustin: You are another quiet, yet welcoming, constant within our church. You're always there, always willing to serve and, from what I hear, are a great friend. I know you are to me. You lead the way in showing other students that serving with adults on Sunday mornings is a honorable task, keep that up. I leave you Austin & Kelsey to take care of because I know you're dependable and trustworthy.
To Paris: I have great hope for you, my friend. I pray that you no matter what negatively gets around you that you will know what is most important. You've impressed me with your demeanor, your Bible knowledge and your respect towards me. Don't let that stop in the future.
To Waverly & Tyler Perez: I think and pray for you two young men often. Both of you have so much more to offer than what you're putting out at the moment. You have humbled me at times and left me speechless at others. Both of you know very well what God expects from you, I just pray that you drop all the drama, mend the important relationships, check your pride and get on with what God wants you to do, not just what you want. I love you two and I know life has dealt each of you a difficult hand, but you can overcome but not by just your own strength.
That's it for Part 1, come back and check out what girls will receive a Parting Word.
Love you all,
TJ
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