One dazzlingly bright and sunny morning a dirty, unshaven and unkempt man tentatively enters the sanctuary and takes a seat in the last pew. Those around him noticeably flinch as his pungent odor reaches their nostrils, and slide as far away as possible. No one talks with him, or deigns to even look him in the eye. The man leaves the church, humiliated, with nothing but a negative picture of those who presume to call themselves "Christians." This tragedy hits directly home with me, and provides an accurate introduction to the explanation of what I want to do in my life. Growing up as the daughter of Salvation Army full time ministers, from a young age I have been surrounded by people in all walks of life. From the staggeringly rich to the poverty-stricken and destitute, I have seen the influence of my parents and others who give of themselves in more ways than can be listed. The Salvation Army's slogan "Heart to God, Hand to Man" is very real to me, and I recognize my responsibility as a Christian to do my best in spreading the word of God. But how can you tell a man who is starving and unclothed that he needs to be concerned about his soul? The answer is this: minister first to his physical needs, then talk with him about his salvation. So many of us are blessed beyond belief, yet we take so little time to help those who are unfortunate. I envision myself in lifetime ministry, whether that means as my vocation or along with another career. But I believe that Shorter College is a place where I can develop my musical talents to the best of my ability, allowing me to expand my horizons and finalize my plans for the future.
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