Just like most people, I grew up going to church. My mom, who was raising four kids at the time, made it a point we were in Sunday School every week, and told us how it important it was to go. I knew about Jesus that he sacrificed himself so we could live forever with God, but I never truly understood the severity or the personal impact God could have on my life. Fast forward to high school, around the peak of the pandemic, I hit a wall. I struggled with my identity and purpose, feeling lost and uncertain about my future. I decided to actually lean into faith instead of my own understanding, and I started praying seriously and got involved in my church a lot more. At that time, I was also reading a book called "A Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren and I realized that knowing my purpose wasn't about finding myself, but about surrendering myself to the One who made me. That's when I truly accepted Christ into my life. Since that turning point, I have finally begun to understand my identity and what I was put on this earth to do. While I’ve made a lot of progress, I know I have a long way to go to grow deeper in His word and teachings. I am excited to be part of this community, not only to grow closer to God but to experience this journey alongside you guys!😄