Patience in the Petition

A group of people living in the same place or having characteristics in common is collectively called a community. We build communities, cultivate them, and thrive in them. Our lives are transformed by them and we choose them carefully. At times we may live in a community that does not meet our expectations, but it is in those communities we are called to make best of the situation and are strengthened. In that instance we are able to delve deeper into what we need in life and from those who make our community.

Communities do not define a person, but a community is defined by the people that inhabit it. They all have similar ideals and goals for the community: to care for it and improve it, and invite others to share what they have built through their labor of love. However, each community sets forth morals, values, standards, etc. and it is vital that the community one associates with align with what is right and true in their heart.

When I moved to Dallas, I was exceedingly overwhelmed at how large this community was. My heart longed to find a community that shared the same values, encouraged me, challenged me, and enlightened me. While one must try with all they have to become bored in a community as vast as Dallas, it is increasingly simple for one to lose sight of what their heart truly desires with an overabundance of options. Do not be mistaken that I am speaking in a negative connotation of the Dallas community; but what I am saying is that loneliness becomes more prevalent in a place this size. Patience in loneliness is a painstaking process, for God designed us to be in communion with our brothers and sisters.

"The intention of the human heart is deep water, but the intelligent draw it forth. Many say, “my loyal friend,” but who can find someone worthy of trust?" Proverbs 20:5, 6

It took three years for God to grant the petition I held with such high regard in my heart. You become like those you are surrounded by, which is why it is crucial to surround yourself with like-minded individuals who are established in, yet continuing to grow in faith and are vulnerable in their failings. Even more pertinent is to find those who are able to use shortcomings to find a path much greater, often narrower, but filled with what is right, just, and honest.

In the summer of 2017, my sister, Carlie, moved from Oxford, Mississippi (Hotty Toddy!) to Dallas in order to pursue a degree in interior design. I was elated and thankful to have another opportunity to spend more time with her. In addition to sharing a room growing up, we now share a cozy place together. Our relationship has flourished as we both create lives of our own and navigate our way in the world.

Building our little community together has not been easy. She is night and I am day. I am an early bird, she is a night owl. She blares Yeezus (not to be mistaken for Jesus) and trap music while Frank Sinatra and Pearl Jam play gently through the record player she gave me for Christmas. She drinks decaf coffee and I have cups of caffeinated. It is these differences that have created balance and happiness in our little community. I am eternally grateful to live under the same roof as my best friend.

A few weeks after Carlie and I were settled in our apartment, a friend invited us over to his place for a summer party. That evening I met four girls, Mary, Julia, Erin, and Brigid. Little did I know these girls would become some of the greatest friends I have ever had. Their lives radiate with joy, encouragement, honesty, laughter, and vulnerability; most importantly, they each are pursuing Christ and the virtuous life He has freely given us the option to live according to.

Communities without differences would be like a reef filled only with coral. Beautiful nonetheless, but lacking in the diversity of fish, algae, turtles, clams, the life that sustains the reef; a reef that would not last long without even the most minute of organisms. Each human has a role in their community and without that person, the community often weakens. Whether it be a brilliant mind, humble service, radiant smile, selfless action, or unwavering strength, a community can only flourish when like minded individuals share with their neighbors what God has graciously gifted them with.  

"Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, as indeed you do." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

These girls, along with a few others (Hi Katie, Dana, Tristyn, and Meg), have formed a community of women who long to know the Lord better and live our lives in His will doing all we can to live as Christ did. We care for one another and the well being of others. This community has exceeded my expectations and provides love, compassion, understanding, joy, and peace in my life and the lives of others who call them daughter, sister, friend, coworker. Each woman in this community mirrors Christ in her own way and it is a brilliant sight to see! 

I think of the twelve Apostles and what it must have been like as they each were called to walk with Christ; first, St. Andrew along with his brother, St. Peter, followed by St. Phillip and St. Bartholomew, and the rest of the twelve. Their willingness to walk in communion with Christ and follow Him even after His death, resurrection, and ascension is the willingness I see in the community I am so blessed to call my friends and sisters in Christ. Sure we all stumble and are by no means perfect, but we strive each day to be like the saints in Heaven and like Christ who is seated at the right hand of the Father. For what is our purpose on Earth if not to bring our family, friends, community, others, and ourselves closer to the Lord out of the love He so graciously gives us? That is what community is all about, love. 

"A friend loves at all times..." Proverbs 17:17