Paper #1

Florida was much hotter than I had anticipated. With the heavy humidity it was like you were swimming through the air. Thirty hours on the road and we had finally made it. I had left my job at the Public Library in DeForest WI, packed three bags of belongings, and hitched a ride with my girlfriend down to Orlando. I moved into an apartment with her dad, while she moved into a dorm room at the University of Central Florida.

Within the first day I was offered a job with Two Men and a Truck, a moving company. This job would test my patience and push me to the limits of my physical capability. To say the least, I was afraid. This was the first time I had been on my own in the world. I did not know anyone there other than my girlfriend and her dad. Not knowing what to expect, I was not really prepared for it. I was never taught the skills needed for this endeavor. Little did I know that this adventure would prove to be the most difficult physical, emotional, and spiritual experience I would have so far in my life. The trials I had there changed my very being, how I view the world, and most importantly what I desire.

My life previous to the move was reckless and chaotic. I had no thought of the consequence my immediate actions would have. Living for the moment, I was on a constant search for the next thrill, the next high. I was involved in minor gang activity, heavy drug and alcohol abuse, and many dead-end lustful relationships. Sex, drugs, and Rock and Roll were my only interests.

While these things provided a thrill and temporary heightened sense of being, there was no meaning behind them, no fulfilment. As it all started to catch up to me I realized that my life was quickly spiraling downhill. Due to some nearly fatal experienc...

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...y life is on a path of repair. I now have meaning in my life again and have learned amazing things. I have found strength to forgive those that do me wrong and have been given a sight to see those less fortunate than me. Believe what you will, but to me this experience was as direct answer to my prayer. It is a sign that God does listen to our pleas and if we are humble, through small and simple means, He will provide a way for us. It is something I cannot deny. I would be lying to myself if I did.

We may not notice at first, but if we take a step back from our narrow view and see life on a wider scale, through the eyes of The Beholder, we see the intricate web of events that have shaped us into who we are. If we open our hearts and minds, we will see that God has been walking with us the whole time. As I look back at the experiences I had, I see His hand in all.