Why LifeWay Closing It's Physical Stores Breaks My Heart
Start writing a post
Student Life

Why LifeWay Closing It's Physical Stores Breaks My Heart

A goodbye to my first job.

Bryanna
Apr 30, 2019
Mississippi State University
65
Why LifeWay Closing It's Physical Stores Breaks My Heart
upload.wikimedia.org

Let me start off with admitting I am little biased about Lifeway Christian Stores. I have worked in one of the stores for two and a half years. I have spent a lot of time with the customers and employees. It has been a large part of my time and life for those years. I have seen a lot and it is the things I have experienced that break my heart when I think about the final days of the stores.

First, it's the customers. I have met many amazing people in all stages of life. I have had the chance to be encouraged by the cancer patient who is clinging to God with faith. I have cried with people as they have mourned their loved ones and choose songs for the funeral. I have hugged and prayed with customers. I have seen my co-workers do the same countless times. But seeing other customers meet a stranger and pray with them, warmed my heart a thousand times.

Next, it's the employees at all Lifeway stores. One of the things Lifeway did nationwide was to share the experiences of the employees in one store with others. I can confidently say working for the chain stores was a bonding experience and great experience for most employees. I am so happy and thankful I have a "Lifeway family." I never dreaded going to work or who I would work alongside of. I am always grateful to see them. I know that is a rare experience and I am thankful I had it.

The ministry was a major part of my time at Lifeway and made me be willing to drive an hour to commute (after I transferred to another college.) I once overheard a customer say that it's more than a business, it is a place where church happens. I could not agree more with that statement and I like that someone else noticed it. I have seen Bible studies happen (that Lifeway led), prayer happen, singing, laughter, tears, donations to the needy, celebrations and lives given to Christ in that store.

One thing is for sure, I am so grateful God used Lifeway in my life. I am glad I have been apart of its impact on my community and the legacy it is left.

Lifeway will be missed by so many, especially me.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Relationships

Grateful Beyond Words: A Letter to My Inspiration

I have never been so thankful to know you.

University of New Haven
276089
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

Smith College
74284
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
waitlisted
Swoon

Navigating the Talking Stage: 21 Essential Questions to Ask for Connection

It's mandatory to have these conversations.

National Writers Society
141397
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
single life
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

Marist College
46739
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

University of Oklahoma
977380
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
family and friends

Trending Topics

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments