Ever since I was young, like, little little, I wanted to help people. I wanted to lead them and fix their problems and move the obstacles from their way. I waited until I reached the minimum age to volunteer for mission trips, community serviced, yadayada. I was eager to do anything for anyone.

Ever since I was 13 years old, I've been helping people around the country through a mission camp. The mission camp, run through the United Methodist Church of Christ, traveled all over the Mid-West and even farther. Based in Rockford, Illinois, I was always excited for the 5+ hour ride to our mission cites.

Through all the summers of mission work, I learned a lot of valuable skills that I use all the time in my personal and (somewhat) professional life. I know how to deal with sensitive situations, like listening to people's stories and feeling their pain, their wants and needs, and being real with them. To make a connection with people, past the point of small talk. To really know them. I also learned how to drywall, repair ceilings, paint outside and inside houses, and so much more.

Not only did I gain skill, but I met people who are now many of my greatest friends, who I will know for life. It doesn't matter how long we don't talk or think of each other, but once we see each other the spark is still there. It seems like only hours have gone by instead of months and years. Friends you earn with God melded between you. You know them past their secrets, and you share something that's powerful.

Mission work has been so good to me, and I suggest that everyone volunteers or goes out to do mission work at least once in their life. It is so rewarding to help those that have less than us, who need help to get past the hard, struggle filled days. To touch their hearts, that they too help those even less fortunate then themselves.

"If a commission by an earthly king is considered an honor, how can a commission by a Heavenly King be considered a sacrifice?" — David Livingstone