Coincidence?

       

        The other day I was having a conversation with a good friend of mine about divine intervention vs coincidence. I am of the opinion that God is highly involved and laces our entire path with people we need to know, things we need to learn, and obstacles we need to grow from. My friend didn't quite agree, in fact he scuffed, "So if you get a front row parking spot God arranged that?" Well ya know, sometimes when it's been a bad day, you're in a hurry, and have to get that candy bar you promised a student, I think yeah; He helps out. 

       As I left and have further reflected on that conversation I found undeniable evidence in my life. The most common form of divine intervention I can see is the gift of new relationships.

        Since I've returned home from my mission I haven't done nearly enough reaching out. I'm so happy with the relationships I already have. I'm not attending school just yet, go to a singles ward that basically contains all my high school peers, and live at home. Needless to say my social circle is comfortable and well established. 

       This is a good thing, I really do find comfort in it. Yet, as I've prayed for growth and direction I've found that God has placed new remarkable people in my life in addition to allowing me to nurture the older friendships as well.There is something empowering within strong, caring relationships. I can see that God intends to speak to me by who He's placed in my life.  I could go on for hours and hours talking about each close friend of mine and how they teach me and help me be who I need to be.

       Today however, I want to highlight three new friendships. My heart is just overflowing with gratitude for these three ladies, and this is a small way I can give tribute to them. I thank Heavenly Father for helping me continue to get to know amazing people.

       First let's talk about Jenna Thrope:

      This friendship all started with a picture of her in a cat costume. :) I served in Argentina with her wonderful boyfriend. Most every time I'd go to the mission office I'd pull out the pictures he had in his desk and Jenna's was always right on top. Once I came home my friendship with Josh continued. By the time I was home Josh had won over Jenna and they were a package deal.

      Instead of Jenna being territorial or uninterested in "Josh's mission friends" she became a companion to me. She's and I are usually the only girls in a huge group of guys and I couldn't be more grateful to have such a sweet side kick. I know I can always count on her to make me feel included and safe. 

       Something I love about Jenna is that she has a love for the gospel of Jesus Christ that shines through her. She made institute a priority in my life and continues to show me just how much we can trust Heavenly Father. I think that because of her shining testimony her understanding of the spirit has been made impeccable.

        A few weeks ago I was having a rough night.  I was feeling lonely and just bummed when a knock came to my door. Jenna!!! After driving around for forever trying to remember where I live, she had come to deliver me a delicious home made loaf of bread. She is full of compassion and extremely thoughtful. I love you Jenna, thank you for making me a better person, and thank you for being my side-kick!

Second up Kristin Braithwaite:

         I don't even know how to begin the tribute to Kristin. She and I worked together this last year at PG Jr. High. Immediately I was drawn in by her teaching style. She teaches to change lives and empower with knowledge. The students in her room are engaged in what's going on to the point where they don't even bother pulling out their call phones. However, that's also because she cares enough about them to give them clear limits and rules that she actually implements. 

       Something so cool about Kristin is that she has this gift where she's able to make everybody around her feel like they're her number one. I saw it time and time again with the kids. They felt like they mattered to her, which caused them to excel. Not only the students though, the other co workers flocked to her too, and even I found myself receiving so much validation and confidence from the friendship she offers. She changed my desire to magnify my job and be the best person I could be. 

        It's thanks to who she is that I have found a new confidence to go change the world. Nothing about his woman is mediocre and nothing could stop her force. She inspires grit, knowledge, personality, and dreaming. I am honored to know her and so grateful to know there are still heroes out in the world. I love you Kristin!

       Third is Laura Titensor:

       Super mom, iron woman, housewife, and BFF; these are seriously only a few of the titles this woman possesses. Laura is someone who is so extremely active and full of life! I watch her juggle being a mom and wife, as well as a committed visiting teacher, plus a friend, and a million other things, with such grace and enthusiasm. I think the coolest thing about that is, each senses that importance it carries in her life. She makes time for everything and is able to dedicate her energy and time to all.

       Something else that Laura has done for me is push me to reach my goals. Although we've known each other for sometime now it's only been lately that our friendship has blossomed. It was while I was praying for someone who could help me be a better version of myself that we became dear friends. It's thanks to her that I attend the temple weekly, or have gone running. She's such an encourager. 

       Mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically, Laura is put together. I'm so grateful that I can learn to live a balanced life, full of love through the example of her. Thank you Laura for being a rockstar, I love you, and think the world of you!

      

       God had also given me you! Although I may not have highlighted our friendship specifically, I know God put you in my life for a divine purpose. I love that He's done that for me and that He does it for you too. I love each and everyone of you! May we all strive a little harder to take advantage of the opportunities to know His sons and daughters around us, because who knows the beautiful relationships and unity they could bring!