Arise.

It's 12:30 as I'm writing this line. Why am I up so late, or perhaps, why am I up so early? Well, I just got back from one of the best stomps I've ever been to. The music was clean, the people were kind, and the atmosphere was just plain fun. I'll never experience another stomp like an institute dance.

As this week draws to a close, I want to share a personal experience that I've had and a lesson I've learned.

The Lord works in mysterious ways, but He always has a purpose.

Over the Christmas break I devoted some of my time to practicing the music for the upcoming spring musical. I spent hours on the piano making sure I was prepared to accompany some of the best singers on campus. When my first day came to work, I was nervous and a little scared. I wanted to impress people. As the director walked in, it took her a while to realize who I was. She told me soon after that she didn't need me anymore because the were going to use to tracks to rehearse. I was a little shocked and upset that I didn't get to do something I was excited and prepared for. I walked out with a heavy heart and songs that hadn't been played.

The next day came and I got a call from my roommate that he needed someone to accompany him for his audition for the institute choir, Arise. I rushed to the institute and we practiced his number. My sister also came in and asked if I could play for her as well. I couldn't refuse and the next thing I know I'm in the audition room playing "On My Own" while my sister sang. After she was done, one of the panel members leaned over and asked, "Are you auditioning too?" I told her that I wasn't. She told me that I should definitely try out. As I walked out of the room, I was prompted by several other people to audition for the choir. A few minutes before I accompanied my roommate, I decided that I would indeed try out. I chose two hymns that I enjoyed and walked in to sing. As I sang, I knew that I was supposed to be there. I was supposed to sing praises to my Lord and devote my time to uplift others. After the auditions were done, I stepped out and  knew that I could do it.

Today before Friday Forum, we checked the list to see if we made it. I heard my name called and smiling faces looking up at me. I had made it! My roommate and my sister both made it too! I was thrilled and I realized that I was so excited to sing. The Lord had made a way for me to do what He wanted me to do.

For some reason I wasn't meant to accompany the musical. I was meant to sing in a choir full of kind people who would become my friends and be excellent examples to me. I was meant to Arise.

The Lord has touched my life as He will surely touch yours.

I love you all. Keep being stellar.