Day 1 - June 14th, 2025

I consider today my official "kick-off" of the next year in the Fellows Program. I haven't studied, in a library, for a block of hours, in.... 15+ years? It's quite bizarre and yet, the smell upon entering was kind of like a warm hug.

Even though I lackadaisically did the pre-studying assignments over April & May on "Creating Margin for Growth" to prepare, the items due took little time. No papers or intense bible study.

I'm bummed I missed the official orientation most of my cohort attended last Saturday, June 7th, as I was in Denver at a wedding. Perhaps that's why I feel a little more anxious going into this month's assignment list, due July 5th. I'll take part in the make-up orientation class on Saturday, June 28th, but of course I can't wait until then to begin the month's studies.

So here I am, at the Lincoln Park Library, a lost lamb, officially beginning the next year's adventures (and avoiding the Puerto Rican festival / parade today). I've had a lot more anxiety this past week. And I've talked to multiple people about my perfectionism rearing it's ugly head. Requesting prayer that I give my anxieties to the Lord, that I continue to humble my heart in knowing all this studying, reading, memorization, & writing is for my good and for my being in Christ, the foundation of my life. I don't have to do it perfect, and I trust I'll get better at planning my time and studies with each passing month. And lastly, reminding myself that even here at this library right now, I am not alone. God is right here by my side.

If you're reading this, I'm asking you to be on my prayer team over the next 12 months. I'll publish a blog post a couple times a month. I may publish my writings and reflection papers as well. Below, I'm putting a picture of my June assignments, because perhaps at times I'll need to be kept accountable.

I'm so grateful the theme for our first month is "Receiving God's Grace" because it's something I'm particularly bad at and need the most right now.

Thank you for being in my life, for praying for me this year, and all the wisdom and love you have already poured into me.

Love, Adrienne