The great thing about college is that, firstly, people expect you to be busy, and secondly, there are a thousand opportunities to make yourself busy. There are clubs, and jobs, and....I don't even know, so many things you might be filling your planner with. I know I, for one, have to intentionally plan to not have plans. Can anyone relate? Anyway - the point of this article: I want to tell you all about a wonderful extracurricular at my school that I stumbled upon, and it is one of those extra obligations that feels less obligatory and more like a reprieve from all of my busyness. At CSU, each Thursday night, there is a church service for students called Elevate. I feel like that short description doesn't really do it justice - it feels less like a rigid churchy gathering (I mean, there is Christian rap pounding as you walk in, so that already kills the 'traditional' vibe) and more like a fun reunion of sorts where everyone is really pumped about Jesus. So, my kind of place. I actually went for the first time this past January, and at the start I wasn't even going for the church service. At that time in my life, I was at some type of church service every day except for Friday, so I got roped in for an ulterior reason - I really wanted to meet people. Specifically, I wanted to make friends that went to school with me, and that loved the Lord. And, let me tell you, I have. Everyone that I encountered that first night, and really every time I've been since then, was so kind and welcoming. These people made my first night of a new church so different than what I was used to - they wanted to know me, and include me, and they were genuinely glad I was there. The people I've met because of Elevate are the people I spend nearly all my time with now, and I just cannot get over what a blessing that is. But! The cool people, however much of a plus they are, was not what kept me going to Elevate. It was the worship, the vision, the messages, and the people all coming together to create an atmosphere in which I found solace from the things life would affront me with. So, how does all of this gushy excitement apply to you? Well, let me tell you! Finding a community where people have common values with you, good energy, and an evident desire to be supportive really does wonders for a person! So if you go to CSU, and you want to meet some cool people who love community and Jesus, come hang out with us on Thursday's! And if you don't, I recommend finding a community where you share common goals and values with others, where you're supported, and feel you really belong. Amidst all of the craziness of college, finding something to be involved in that feels less like a commitment and more like a privilege can really elevate (pun intended) your outlook on life.

Keep it kind, guys.