List 10 people who have influenced you and describe how they have done so.
I had such a difficult time coming up with the people on this list, not because i didn't have enough, but because I had more than 10 I could have included! So here they are, in no particular order:
- St. Josemaria Escriva- typical Catholic, I know. Opus Dei, a prelature that St. Josemaria started, was a big part of my time in high school. Through his writings and the example of those who live in Opus Dei, I am learning to dedicate every moment of my life to God, even the ordinary tasks.
- Mrs. Carroll- the director of my high school. Mrs. Carroll seemed to never tire: she directed the school and simultaneously taught 7 classes. She’d attend all the home sports games and bring papers to grade, but she never missed a big play. She’d be at every night of the spring musical and if you arrived to school early or stayed late you would often see her jogging back and forth between school and her house (which was only 3 doors down from school). She’s a prime example of the type of woman I’d like to be one day.
- Andrew Moore- the young man who was hit by a car the summer that I walked Crossroads. His example and faith inspire me daily.
- Grace- my best friend at college. She has such a heart for service and her unapologetic faith is contagious. I am blessed to have her in my life and to be able to call her both friend and sister.
- Hannah- one of my best friends who I have known since kindergarten. She’s a wonderful older sister to her siblings and every time I’m with her, I become more peaceful.
- Robyn- Hannah’s (^) sister, another best friend who I’ve also known since kindergarten. She’s exuberantly joyful and brings a smile to my face whenever we hang out.
- Stephanie- a fellow Crossroads walker. I had the privilege of attending school for a semester with Stephanie after we finished the walk, and got to know her better during those 4 months. Stephanie is a beautiful witness to me of strength and has overcome so much. She inspires me to stay the course and to do what is best for me, even when it’s hard.
- Josh- another fellow Crossroads walker. Josh is a seminarian and is a great example of living one’s vocation no matter what he’s doing. I know the Lord has great things planned for him. [And he’s told me that if I wait 7 years ‘til he’s ordained, he’ll even preside over my wedding! What a friend! ;) ]
- Fr. Luke- one of the wonderful Franciscan TOR friars who serves our university. Fr. Luke was my support and guide through my semester in Austria, and I’m blessed to still be in contact with him every couple weeks. His patience and willingness to ‘just be there’ whenever I needed him inspires me to do the same for those I will minister to one day.
- Pope Francis- Let’s start and end with people I’ve never actually met, shall we? Pope Francis epitomizes the pastoral approach and love for all that I always want to show to others in my ministry.