I grew up in a small town in Wisconsin called West Allis, where going to church every Sunday with grandma was the norm. I remember sitting in the wooden pews, listening to the preacher’s sermon, singing hymns, and praying with the congregation. I was taught that God had a plan for me, that I should follow His commandments, and that He would reward me in heaven.
Several Bible verses speak about God’s plan for me and all. One such verse is Psalm 138:8 (ESV), which says, “The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands.” Another verse that speaks about God’s plan for us is Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV), which says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” These verses remind us that God has a life plan and will guide us toward fulfilling our purpose.
As I grew older, I started questioning things I learned in church. I wondered why there were so many different denominations, why some people were excluded or discriminated against, and why there was so much suffering and injustice in the world. I also became interested in science, philosophy, and other cultures, which challenged some of the beliefs I had been raised with.
I still attend college at Ohio Christian University and have been a 4.0 student since the beginning of 2020. I stopped attending church regularly in person as when I was a child. I am a fully grown adult with free will and choice, and now I prefer the online world. I have met many people from different backgrounds, religions, and perspectives and learned to appreciate diversity and tolerance. I also discovered new passions and opportunities and pursued my goals and dreams. I felt free to explore my identity and find my own meaning in life.
Now, in 2023, I live in a small city in the Southern Bible Belt known as Aurora, MO, going to school at a number one-rated Bible school (university). To inform and inspire my readers, I write about past and current events, including social issues and human stories. I still believe in God, but not in the same way as I did when I was a kid. I see God as a source of love, wisdom, and creativity rather than a judge, ruler, or dictator. I do not follow any specific doctrine or dogma but rather try to live by the golden rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you; in my case, I leave it up to God to judge.
I do not regret my upbringing or my journey. Both have shaped me into who I am today: a curious, compassionate, and courageous person. I respect people with different views and values than me if they do not harm others or themselves. I still go to church sometimes when I visit with friends or feel like connecting with a community of faith. Nevertheless, I also find spirituality in other places: in nature, in art, in music, in meditation.
Growing up in a church pew, I learned a lot about faith, values, and community. I also learned how to balance different aspects of my life, such as school, family, and friends. In 2023, I still apply those lessons to my current college student and older adult situation.
Being a college student is not easy, especially in these challenging times. There are many things to juggle: assignments, exams, projects, internships, extracurricular activities, and more. Sometimes, there is not enough time or energy to do everything well. I try to prioritize what matters most and set realistic goals.
One of the things that matters most to me is my personal life and that it stays private. I value the relationships I once had with my family and friends, and at one point, I thought of a possible significant other. They are the ones who support me, encourage me, and make me happy. They are also the ones who challenge me, inspire me, and help me grow. I try to spend quality time with them through phone calls, video chats, or face-to-face meetings. I also try to be there for them when they need me, just as they are there for me.
Another thing that matters to me is my faith. I grew up in a church pew, but that does not mean I have all the answers or never doubt or question anything. On the contrary, faith is a journey that requires constant reflection and exploration. I try to keep an open mind and heart and learn from different perspectives and experiences. I also try to live out my faith in practical ways, such as serving others, being kind, and seeking justice.
Balancing my school life with my personal life is not easy, but it is possible. It requires planning, discipline, flexibility, and communication. It also requires self-care, gratitude, and fun. I do not always get it right, but always try my best. Moreover, I know that whatever happens, I have a strong foundation that comes from growing up in a church pew.
I have considerably changed from a church pew as a kid to life in 2023. However, I have also stayed true to myself.
Written By Lesallan – September 5, 2023
