Glory to God in friendships.

Have you ever met someone that you instantly just looked at and thought to yourself, "I need this person in my life"? Not the intimate, heart pounding, "I need you" kind of way; but the "This person ignites my spirit because he or she is so in love with God" kind of way.

I'm speaking specifically about a girl on my college campus. I met her last year, within the first few weeks that I came to St. Rose. We were both attending a new club that was starting on campus called "Girls For God." I ended up making the decision not to continue on with my participation in the club, but this girl's heart for God never left me. Intermittently, I would run into her on campus and we would have brief encounters; each one filled with the power and goodness of God. Her knowledge of the bible and the way she gives life to the word of God is something I admire so deeply.

Within the past few months, God has blessed our friendship and is continually causing it to prosper. The other night she attended an event one of my classes was hosting called, "Reach Up St. Rose." I had been praying that her schedule would be able to open up for her to share one of her poems in our talent show, because I have heard and seen how her words impact the people who are so blessed to hear them. Before the event, she found me frantically running around trying to get things done and asked me to pray with her. We went upstairs, and just had a beautiful time of prayer together with God. It was during these moments that I felt our friendship strengthen. It was also during these moments that I felt God give purpose to our friendship.

Later that evening, she called and asked if I were able to swipe her into the POD for dinner. Unfortunately, I missed her call, but when I called back I offered that if she ever needed a swipe again, I was happy to help. Tonight, as I was writing my book report for my political science course, she texted me and asked for a swipe. I ran downstairs, excited for a time of good conversation and fellowship. This girl has without a doubt the sweetest, purest, most joyful soul out of anyone I have ever met. I am so thankful for the friendship we are developing, and even just that people like her exist. Every conversation we have uplifts my heart. I truly believe friendships like this one bring glory to God's mighty name. Before we departed for the evening, she told me that I am a light in her life that provides her with a calm, trustworthy environment in which "What you see is what you get."

I'm so thankful for sweet compliments that cause my spirit to soar, and sweet friendships that bring glory to God's name.