Since starting college, I’ve had to explain to many people where I’m from. They ask about my accent, wonder if everyone sounds like me, and often make jokes since they’ve never heard of my hometown. Honestly, when I left Ramseur almost four years ago, I was more than ready to get out of that small town and see the world—or at least, somewhere that wasn’t home. But over the years, I’ve grown to appreciate where I’m from, especially the people. My community is tight-knit, and while that was annoying growing up — everyone knowing everyone’s business — now, I’m so thankful for it. The past few weeks have been tough, with so many young people passing away back home. Even though I’m not there, I know how much it has shaken my community. It feels like we can’t catch a break. But what I’ve seen, even from a distance, is how everyone is there for each other—comforting, supporting, and praying for one another. I think it’s easy to take the people around us for granted; I know I have in the past. So, while I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunities I’ve had in college and not sure where God will lead me after graduation, one thing is certain: I’ll always have a community back home praying for me. Don’t take for granted the community around you, wherever you are. If you have people willing to pray for you, you’re truly blessed. And even if you don’t know my hometown, I ask that you pray for it. Right now, the people there are hurting.
Matthew 18:20 “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”