Life (Jessalyn's view)

How it all began

 I met Emery while I was running LDP at camp. She was such a shy girl and had a lot of stuff going on. We connected in a really good way which was very important to me. I had prayed for someone that I could invest in spiritually and then Emery came along and completely steals my heart.

 Summer ended and I stayed at camp to work as full time staff. It was very quiet compared to the business of LDP and summer camp in general. The first day of school for everyone in school came and I decided to text Emery to see how she was doing being back at school.  

 Jessalyn

Hey Em, how's it going?

 Emery

Hi Jess, I'm at school sitting by myself in the corner of the commons. So I guess it's going as good as it can when I'm at school. 

I felt sorry for her. She had just made some amazing friends at camp ad now she was all alone again.

 Jessalyn

What are five things you're thankful for right now? I typed. It took her a little bit to text back. This was a big struggle for her.

 Emery

I'm thankful for my dog, for a beautiful morning to go running, new friends I found at camp, music and YOU.

Jessalyn

Does that help?

Emery

A bit, yeah

That made me smile. I was hoping she was smiling too. 

Jessalyn

What's your goal that you set for this year?

I knew she had probably forgotten about this, so I gave her a little reminder. We had agreed that she would set a goal for that year. 

Emery

I haven't made one yet😕

 I knew it. I thought for a bit about what would really challenge her. Then I started to type again. 

Jessalyn

I have an idea for it. This year you try to make two new friends.

Emery

I don't know

Jessalyn

I think you can do it. It's only one new friend per semester.

Emery

If you think I can do it I guess I'll try

Jessalyn

You can do it. Remember God's with you all the time. He'll help you and so will I.

Emery

Thanks😉 It's much appreciated

 I could just imagine her sitting there smiling alone but talking with me. This would be hard for her but totally worth it in the end.

Emery

I gotta go now Jess TTYL

Jessalyn

TTYL