To whomever is reading this letter, I note that I use the term “Christian” loosely because I am not a fan of labels and I do not like the stigma society has put around Christianity.

Dear Friend,

In this season of thanksgiving, I wanted to write this letter specifically to you. This is for the impact you have made on my life, and continue to make.

Before I met you, I was becoming the lukewarm Christian we all try to avoid becoming. My faith was strong, but my spirit wasn’t quite there. I never stopped going to church, but I struggled to find community, and I dreaded going to church because I felt so lonely. I thought I knew where I was and where I needed to be, when in fact, I was completely lost.

I remember when we first met, it was the most awkward thing. Being tossed into a training with eight other strangers I’d have to work with all summer, I would have never known at that time you would be one of those special people that God would put in my life.

Observing how you handle situations and respond to others during work, I always saw kindness, patience, and A LOT of sass. You always create a welcoming environment and make people feel like they belong, and I hope I can do the same.

When you first took me to Hillsong church, you made me volunteer with you, and to be honest, I was scared. I wasn’t scared because of the introverted (I know I don’t seem like one) person I am, but because I felt like this was a test. I've been missing this ever since I got to college, and I didn't know how to feel.

But watching you serve and watching everyone stand in line for church with pure joy and excitement was beyond inspiring. I’ve never seen such enthusiasm and a heart that serves.

You not only invited me to church, but continued to encourage me to come. To Sunday service, to connect group, to Block hangouts. You are an angel sent from God! Even if you are not longer my connect leader, you've helped me get plugged in to a wonderful community of some of the most amazing sisters, and I can't thank you enough!

Remember when we were roommates for literally two nights? That was probably one of the highlights of my summer. Listening to music, making homemade popcorn, waking up to me making pancakes, and of course, having late night talks about life and Christianity. I thought to myself if only I had a roommate like Viv.

I also realized that this is the kind of joy you feel, what you’re supposed to feel when you’re surrounded by fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. It is so powerful and uplifting!

I would not know where I would be if I never met you. I would probably not have found peace and happiness in my walk with God. You give me hope that I will make an impact on the lives of others just as you made an impact on mine.

Thank you for inspiring me. God bless~

Sincerely,

A very thankful friend.