El segundo parte

So, a friend of mine has demanded an update ;). Now, if she would simply look over my blogging history, she would realize that I am not due for another post for at least another couple of months. However, as some things have occurred on which I am able to update, and because I like this friend of mine (obviously, since she is my friend), I have decided to comply.

Let's see...about two and a half weeks ago, on a Monday night I and my parents attended an informational meeting about US service academies and obtaining nominations. It was sponsored by our local congressman and it was really helpful. I was able to meet the congressman, which was an honor because, if I had been able to, I would have voted for him in our last elections. The reason our conversation was cut short, I thought, was really cool. He had to go because he had promised his children he would be home at a certain time in order to read to them before bed. It made me like him even more. He thanked me for coming, and for making the decision I had to consider attending a service academy. That made me feel awkward and slightly embarrassed because I didn't think it was such a big deal, yet it also made me feel special and honored. As I said, he's a pretty cool guy.

Also that night I was able to talk to representatives from the Air Force Academy, as well as the Naval Academy and Merchant Marines. All were helpful and encouraging. I don't think I'll be joining the Merchant Marines, simply because they focus way to much on the sciences and engineering. That's a big part of the others too, but with them I would still be able to be an English major. Speaking with the people from the AFA was great, because they had both graduated from the academy, and were able to answer many of my questions. One was a Lieutenant Colonel, and the other a Major, and it was really cool to see them and realize that I could be like them someday. An officer in the US Air Force. Like I said, they were all encouraging, and I came away from that night really feeling like this was something I could do. That my goal was attainable. All in all it was a really good night. It also turns out the Major is actually the ALO (Admissions Liaison Officer) for the AFA assigned to the local high school, which I found out when I called him later that week. We were able to discuss the admissions process, and what I need to do in preparation. The main thing right now it retaking the SAT and trying to raise my Math score. So I'll be doing that June 7th. Unfortuntely, its the same day as the Gathering. *huge sigh* Ah well, at least Ben and Beth will be able to go.

Another thing that has occurred is that I feel God has softened my hear to His will, as I asked. It took some time, but finally about a week or so ago I was able to submit my future to His will, His plan, and say that if He didn't want me to go the AFA, then I would obey Him and praise Him still. The desire to go had basically become an idol in my life, because I put it above the desire to obey Him. Once I realized this, I had to repent and lay it down. It was a tough thing to do, but I knew I had to if I really loved Him and wanted to follow Him. And I do. Now I feel His peace about the whole situation. I don't have a definite answer as to what His plans are, but I know if He doesn't want me to go, then I won't be accepted. And if He does, He'll give me favor in the admissions peoples' eyes. Gods peace is such a wonderful thing to rest in. I learned that afresh this past weekend at a women's retreat. He's been wooing me to Himself, and showing me His love and grace once again. And I am so thankful. Now I want to pour out my love and gratitude to Him. He is so worthy of it.

So there's my update. Oh, also today was our last day of Finals, so this semester is officially over. I still have a lot of cyber stuff to finish, so I'll be working on that pretty much nonstop for the next 2 weeks. Hopefully I'll be able to get it done, considering that if I don't I won't be able to graduate. Boy, wouldn't that put a kink in my plans, lol. So I must retire to my bed now, as it is very late and I need to wake up early tomorrow to get started on my work. I pray God's abundant blessings on whomever reads this, and that you will know His love and grace as I do. Even more so. In His arms, Rachel