The Shock

So, I wasn't going to write about this but I feel like I should write into words how I have been feeling about Cascade closing. I was very fortunate because my dad called and told me so I wouldn't find out about it on the internet. I am very greatful for that. I'm not going to lie, I was hysterical when I found out. I cried alone in my room for a while and nearly hyperventilated, not wanting anyone to see my tears. Finally I knew I couldn't handle it so I went down to my friends room, where they were having a homework party. I cried in front of them, which i HATE, but they helped comfort me and let me use their computer to make a phone call. After the initial shock and tears and sadness my mind became a little clear. i realized that God has provided me with blessings my entire life. He gave me a wonderful family, friends, boyfriend and school. The school will be gone soon, but He does everything for a reason and I believe that He will continue to provide for me and everyone else affected. This last year I didn't really have a plan for after college so I said that whatever path God chooses for me I will follow. I guess I didn't think it would ever come to this extreme. However I must acccept this as reality, if no miracle occurs. Yesterday I went back to the refugee center to help out with a halloween party for the kids, it helped get my mind off of things for a while. I heard more of the story of a girl named Michelle. Her family life is extremley disturbed. Her mother left her in Austria to take care of her grandfather in Serbia. She is not able to be a good mother because she is always gone, after a few months the grandfather died and the family didnt have enough money for a funeral, so his body stayed in the house for three days before they could move it. Hearing this story puts my life in perspective. I had the priveledge of higher education, and even though this particual college is closing, I still have a bright future, I will never have to suffer the pain and troubles of a family like Michelle's. I still have so much, even though a huge part of my life is being taken away. This is a true test of my faith, never have a been tested to this magnitude. But you know what? God has a plan and will take care of everyone at Cascade. I just know He will, and that fact gives me comfort. I just wish I was home to comfort those at Cascade struggling right now. This is in my prayers everyday, many times a day and all of my friends here are praying as well. I got a few verses from someone very special to me and I thought I would share one of them here: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you can be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4. This verse has really helped me, I hope it will help others as well.