I love writing music. I've been composing a lot lately. It's amazing how much better "my" music sounds when it's improvised praises and worship to God.
I spent a couple hours in Borders today just reading this book called "Angels Assigned." The subject of angels and heavenly beings has always fascinated me. Harmony was able to explain the different types of angels so well, guardians, protectors, warriors, messengers. She has the gift of being able to see them, which is totally rockin. The spiritual realm is a complex and interesting world. It's around us all the time, and some people are fortunate enough to get bored with the physical world and see into this heavenly, spiritual realm. I've only explored what God has shown me... mere glimpses of this heavenly place. It's truly miraculous.
I spent over two hours talking to Nadine on the phone today. What a gem. She is so intelligent, wise, and sweet. Lord, allow me to pray for her and all she is going through. Love this girl.
Carry these burdens I have. Help me read Your Word daily, and grow and listen to Your voice. I LOVE YOU. Help me live every step and every breath I take glorifying you Lord Jesus. Father God protect me, help me write music that honors You and You alone. Thanks for your glimpses of heavenly glory.
Your child,
Kelly
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
heavenly glory through music and the spiritual realm
Posted by Kelly at 12:36 AM 0 comments
Labels: angels, gifts, heaven, music, spiritual realm
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
a listening ear/ harmony
I have been longing to hear God's voice clearly for a long time. I've felt periods of silence in my life, and I feel a bit of that now. I'm seeking direction for my future. I recently wrote a song called Unsure. It is about being unsure about the future, and about life, but knowing that I'm sure about the future God has for me.
Sometimes I feel like God is the only stable thing in my life. Everything else is so uncertain... my career, future relationships, future living situations... Ultimately I have to concentrate on the present, and find joy in all circumstances, even in the most difficult of times.
I need to keep a listening ear open to what God may tell me. I'm trying to spend daily time in the Word and seek God harder than I know how. Sometimes I fail, but that's when I'm learning to let it out and cry about it, but then not to dwell, but instead to move on and move forward, trying my hardest not to look back at my mistakes.
Harmony, if you ever read my blog, I can't tell you how much I miss you. Zimbabwe is too far away. It's so hard not to be able to get ahold of you on the spot, like when you lived here. You give such great advice and possess so much wisdom. God has gifted you over the top girl because you are not afraid to ask and use what's been given to you. You have touched me on a deeper and more spiritual level than anyone. Continue to use your gifts. They are endless. You use your name well, by bringing harmony to the lives of people around you and through your music. I could go on and on, but bottom line... I miss you, and you are forever my sister in Christ.
Readers:
When have you felt uncertain about your future?
Did anything become clear to you? If so, what?
Did you turn to anything/anyone for help?
If so, what help did that thing or person give you?
Did you turn to God for help?
How did God help you?
Do you have a friend, like Harmony for me, that has been there to give you encouragement and advice?
Posted by Kelly at 6:34 PM 0 comments
Labels: future, God, harmony, listen, uncertainty
Monday, December 7, 2009
Israel, Egypt, and a Prayer to God
Sitting here on a rainy day, I've come to realize how much faster and more enjoyable life is when I'm doing things. I went to Israel and Egypt November 3-20th and had such a great time! My favorite story is that there was this old man in Bethlehem who was the boss of an olive wood shop. He saw me and said, "There are beautiful women in America. I will give your father 500 camels if you marry my son." I told him jokingly, "Well my dad's right up there. You can go ask him." I told my dad what the man had said, and my dad replied, "500, no, 600, yes!" It was the running joke of the tour. We later talked about how it would be hysterically disappointing if he shipped 500 camels made out of olive wood to home to Santa Barbara. But, if they were real camels, what would we do with them? I recommended we put all the camels in the stables near the llamas, across from Luther Glen near Camp Yolijwa and give camel rides to the campers to raise money for camp. haha. It was a pretty outrageous plan. Needless, to say, I will not be marrying a random Israel stranger's son.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
sometimes God slams doors, and opens a window a crack just to breathe
I feel as though I've been trapped in the presence of my own home. I love the condo I live in, and only recently with my housemate Laura, has it really become a place I call home. But I did not expect to feel trapped. I asked God to close doors (opportunities) where He did not want me and where His path for me does not lye. I assumed He would open a window or another door for me by now, but it feels as though not only is God closing and shutting doors right and left, He is slamming doors, and maybe opening the window a crack just so I can breathe, but not go through. I am referring to the jobs I have applied for, the friendships I try to continue, and the desires of my future.
Posted by Kelly at 11:21 AM 0 comments
Labels: God, open door, path, relationships
Saturday, September 26, 2009
beauty
Beauty. One word. What is the first thing you think of when you hear this word? Physical appearance? The inner soul? I'm willing to bet that most people who say, "He/She is so beautiful," are referring to the person's physical appearance. But what is this mirage? And what does this say about humanity? Other words used to describe attractive physical appearance are hot, hansom, sexy, cute, pretty... the list seriously goes on and on! But when I say beauty I think of the person's inner being, the person's inner soul. Yes, there are people I think are attractive in appearance, but how much of this outer appearance reflects who they are as a person? I have seen very attractive men who catch my eye, but as soon as I hear them start "swearing like a sailor," or smoking, or whatever else turns me off I question my reasons for seeing them as "attractive" to begin with. What the eye sees is deceptive. You cannot tell the beauty of a person by what he/she looks like. Like "love at first sight?" Sorry, but this is lust at first sight. How would you know you love a person just by looking at them? Think about it... hmm...
Posted by Kelly at 3:41 PM 0 comments
Labels: beauty
Monday, September 14, 2009
camp faith story
Camp is one of the most inspirational places I have been. I grew up going to El Camino Pines nearly every summer from about 3rd through 9th grade. My most memorable experience was confirmation camp, the summer after 8th grade. I went up with my youth group, and on the night of the last campfire a pastor gave an inspirational talk and asked us if we wanted to rededicate our lives to Christ. I was inspired by the pastor’s words and felt called to make this commitment. I received a black wristband, along with many other people who came up. I sat back down at the campfire, looked up at the stars and began to cry because I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit deep inside of me. I felt this overwhelming peace and understanding from within, and knew that God was carrying all of my struggles and that everything was going to be okay. I still wear that wristband today as a reminder that my life is dedicated to God. It is one of those moments that I will never forget. The theme verse of the week was Micah 6:8, which is, “He has shown thee, of people, what is good, and what the Lord requires of thee. But to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.” This became one of my confirmation verses when I was confirmed the next fall.
About six years later I found myself working at camp as a counselor. This was my fourth summer working at camp, and this time as the staff in training program director. I trained high school students to become future counselors and leaders.
What can I say? We have a blast a camp. It is so much fun. We are a close-knit community of believers. The campers learn about God and grow in their faith and are able to simply be themselves. The counselors are fun and outgoing, and their energy is contagious. Camp is a place that inspires kids. It stirs in them a longing to pursue God in their lives and to pursue their faith in all circumstances. They learn how to love others who are different from them because every camper is unique. Camp is about acceptance of who we are as children of God, and I can’t think of a better place, than at camp, to learn about the one who created us all. The relationships built at camp are truly life lasting.
Also, kids do not get to spend enough time outdoors. They are inside for school, when they watch TV or play videogames, but at camp that all changes. We pursue and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. God’s creativity captures the kids when they step foot outside.
Here's just a quick story as I wrap up. There was a camper who at the beginning of the week, it was clear he did not want to be there. He was a high school football player, a “big, tough guy,” and he didn’t seem to want to talk about much when he arrived.” The week transformed him. We went white water rafting and I could see him open up and become vulnerable as he let down his guard. By the last day, he was telling everyone to keep in touch and that he would miss camp. This is just one story among many of how camp works in kids' lives. It has a lasting impact, as kids gain confidence and learn about discipleship. Camp has been a huge blessing in my life, and I see it bless so many kids.Posted by Kelly at 6:32 PM 0 comments
Labels: camp, faith, Holy Spirit, Micah 6:8, outdoors
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
In search of direction...
Ever feel like you lack direction? That's kind of where I'm at right now. Yes, I know God has a plan for me, and yes I know that things will work themselves out. I'm currently looking for a job and right now with the combination of the economy and my music degree, I'm finding it difficult. I found a job at a preschool I thought would have been perfect, but they hired someone before I came back into town from camp. I was in contact with them since April. Then I found a couple jobs at Westmont that looked like possible opportunities but my first choice position there closed, and my mom, who started working there this week, said they are already interviewing my second choice position there. The job market is practically non-existent to BA music degree students fresh out of college. At least, if I want to stay in my hometown. I asked God for direction at camp and God told me, "If you look to things that don't matter, that's what you will find. But, when you look to things that matter most, that's where you will find Me." I have nothing to do but place my trust in the Lord, and work hard in finding what I can for now.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Homosexuality: Acceptance and Love within Christianity
Camp over the last four summers has shown me truly unique and interesting people. A handful of these people are gay and lesbian. These are my friends, amazing Christ-centered individuals, who love God and are joyful leaders beyond belief. I have had the opportunity over the last few summers to talk with four of them about their sexuality. After one of them told me that he dated girls earlier in his life, I told him I didn't understand that. Why would he date girls if he was not attracted to them? He told me, "Kelly, you have to understand. It's not easy being the way I am, it's difficult." It's so different from the ways of the world. Each person I talked to who is gay or lesbian, has told me one clear thing. It is not a choice. "How could God create people gay though?" I wondered. One of my pastors brought up a good point. "They did not choose to be this way. Why would people choose to be so opposite, so backwards, so different from everybody else?" The world does not understand their ways, their differences...
Posted by Kelly at 1:27 PM 0 comments
Labels: acceptance, Christianity, ELCA, homosexuality, love
Saturday, August 8, 2009
camp goodbyes
When I took the position as one of the staff in training program directors, I never realized it would be the best summer of my life. Saying goodbye was even harder than I realized. When John left us yesterday I cried in the airport. Laughed and cried at the same time. He made me smile and laugh by just being himself, even as I was saying goodbye, tears welling up, and falling down my cheek, not knowing when I will see him again. Sean, John, Josh, Kris, and I became so close. With one more week of camp, the next three goodbyes will hit me like bricks falling on my head. The first one was hard enough. I really dislike goodbyes. When you become close to people, and I mean like this summer where we spent 24/7 together for 2 and half months, goodbyes are about the saddest things ever. It's worth it though to know that we made an impact on their lives and that we shared something truly "Holy magical!" as Anthony says.
“We would love for you to be one of our staff in training program directors, Kelly,” Anthony Briggs told me last December. After prayerfully considering this job option, I accepted, soon to be accompanied by Sean, a counselor I worked with two summers before. I did not know Sean too well, but once camp started, and we began writing music together, song after song, through conversations and laughter, we quickly became friends, and greatly enjoyed working together.
In June, four interesting and gifted young men entered our camp community. They were energetic and full of fresh ideas. Through these young faces we saw the birth of a new camp generation. The purpose of the staff in training program is to prepare sixteen and seventeen year old youth to become qualified future staff members.
This summer has been filled with fun and amazing memories. We began our first two weeks at Camp Yolijwa, learning the ins and outs of camp, and participating in lifeguard training. After two weeks into the program one of our SITs decided not to continue with the program. As difficult as it was to see one of our numbers dwindle, it grew us closer together.
We continued our time at beach camp, then half of us proceeded to New Orleans for the National High School Youth Gathering. The three of us that were there even got to hang out in Louisiana! We returned to Yolijwa, and next will be heading to El Camino Pines where the SITs will be staying in the cabins and observing the counselors in action. For the last week of teen camp they will be peer leaders and get to lead Bible studies, devotions, and activities alongside the counselors. Kris, an athlete and guitarist from Camarillo, California explains, “At first I wasn’t sure if I wanted to do the program, but I’m glad I did it, because it’s been the best summer I’ve ever had.”
We have enjoyed trips for frozen yogurt, singing loudly on road trips, but have also been deeply touched by our personal faith stories. Never have I seen such passion and eagerness to dive into the camp life. Josh, from Madison, South Dakota is a highly likeable, joyful person. He comments, “The SIT program is the greatest experience of my life. I know I wouldn’t be able to have done half the things being in South Dakota.”
Through the four summers I have worked at camp, this has been one of my favorites. God has inspired me through the creativity and joy in these young men. John, a down to earth, gifted artist from Tempe, Arizona says, “It’s been an amazing summer, full of laughs, memories, and meeting lifelong friends. The experience has soared passed all of my expectations. My faith has grown so much in these short weeks. I can’t wait till next summer.” I look forward to seeing these three guys work at camp for many summers to come.
Posted by Kelly at 12:45 PM 1 comments
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
National High School Youth Gathering, New Orleans, 2009
A few days ago I got back from the National High School Youth Gathering in New Orleans, Louisiana. There were 37,000 high school students and adult leaders. Yay for Lutheran gatherings! I saw a bunch of camp people and friends. Such a small Lutheran world. The gathering gave us free t-shirts, bags, and Bibles.
We were supposed to pray at 4:24pm every day, but that was kind of hard to remember sometimes. It was because of the scripture, Acts 4:24. We did the "Final 15" every day, which was the daily devotional. We reflected on our days during these.
There were 37,000 people in the superdome, including awesome bands. Skillet, The Katinas, Lost and Found, Agape, Amanda Shaw, the House band, and other amazing performers.
Our service project was painting the inside of an elementary school. It was partly under water during hurricane Katrina. We were able to see houses that 4 years later were still damaged and not rebuilt after Katrina. The people there were so grateful we were there. They thought that no one cared about them, but after seeing all 37,000 of us there, they constantly thanked us. They said we were blessing them, and that was pretty amazing!
Cajun food is tasty! I tried alligator and frog leg, which I've never tried before. It was good. My youth group of 11 people, including myself, Rich and Andrea had a great time overall. We did an incredible amount of walking on the trip.
On the airplane ride there I sat next to Spencer from San Luis Obispo, and Leslie from Arroyo Grande. we talked a little bit. On the way back, surpisingly I sat next to both of them again. This time we were excited to see each other, and talked a lot about the trip. This trip was somethimg that changed us.
Yesterday I went to Disneyland with Sean, Anthony, and the SITs. Oh man, I love my job. Well, we are all meeting now, so peace out. Lata friends!
Posted by Kelly at 10:56 AM 0 comments
Labels: Hurricane Katrina, Lutherans, National Youth Gathering, New Orleans, service
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Camp SIT program!
In my last blog I said I wanted to share a faith story, but I'm going to have to save that for another time. I'm one of the Staff in Training (SIT) program directors for Lutheran Retreats Camps and Conferences (LRCC). It is such an amazing, fun job! I travel from Camp Yolijwa (Youth Living Jesus Way), to beach camp, to New Orleans for the National High School youth gathering with 36,000 people (but this is through my church that I'm the youth director at), to El Camino Pines. I get to travel with 3 amazing high school guys, and the other SIT program director, Sean. We originally had 4 guys but one of them went home. It is so much fun. I can't say that enough. The first week was confirmation camp at Yolijwa and the next week we did lifeguard/CPR/first aid training. I'm now certified in all of them, which is cool.
Posted by Kelly at 2:21 PM 0 comments
Labels: camp, God's voice
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Camp 2009!
Leadership staff training has been a blast. The people here are great and I love being able to see the people I've become friends with the past three summers. People here really open my eyes to love and acceptance. There are people here I would never be friends with had it not been through camp. Some people are crazy and loud, others soft-spoken and gentle, still others full of humor. I would go through and tell you about each person and their amazing qualities, but that would be a long list, and irrelevant to non-camp people. So instead I would love to tell you about how God is working through camp and through the people working here.
Posted by Kelly at 11:28 PM 0 comments
Labels: acceptance, camp, God, love, relationships
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
dealing with death/ processing and grieving
In my last post I discussed hope in healing. Today when I was talking with my friend Luz, we touched on the hardships of the death of a close loved one. She lost her "grandfather" not too long ago. She mentioned going through a difficult time with this, and I remember how sad she was.
Posted by Kelly at 11:20 AM 2 comments
Labels: death, eternal life, grace, heaven
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
hope in healing (in God's perfect timing)
It is amazing how one can be hurt so deeply in the moment, and be healed so fully in time. Healings are miracles, no matter how small, unordinary, or common they may seem. A shattered heart that broke into a million pieces can be gently sculpted back together by God's gentle and gracious hands.
Posted by Kelly at 3:59 PM 0 comments
Labels: forgiveness, God, heal, heart, hope, miracle, relationship, time
Monday, June 1, 2009
why i blog/about me
Back in junior high I would journal daily, and now that I'm out of college, I need to start writing and reflecting again. I invite comments, thoughts, and suggestions, as well as words of wisdom. I am only 24. :) I plan on writing whenever I can, whatever is on my mind, and whatever I think others might find interesting or have opinions on. I leave to work at a camp over the summer in less than a week. At camp I have limited internet access and limited time on my hands, so I'll try my best to write a little this summer. I am open to your opinion of what I have to say.
Posted by Kelly at 9:16 PM 0 comments