Sabbath.

What is Sabbath? Isn't it a weird thing to think about? One day, out of every week, when God commanded us to not do things.

To rest.

But what does that look like? For the Pharisees, that meant doing absolutely nothing. Jesus' disciples even got in trouble for picking heads of wheat as a snack! For Jews living in present-day Israel, it means not even pushing the button on the elevator (the elevator is programmed to stop at ever floor because of this). For some of my friends, Sabbath is simply taking a break from the routine, and doing fun things for a day.

But is that all? A set of rules (or not!) of how not to work?

Sabbath is based on this: God performed the work of creation for six days, so on the seventh day, He rested.

God - the all-powerful King of the universe - needed a break. If He needs to take a break sometimes, how much more so do we, weak, human beings we are!

But how on earth do we do that? In this fast-paced, plugged-in environment we live in, it can be hard to get away for an hour, let alone a whole day.

Here's what I propose: that, rather than a set of Don't's, Sabbath should be more about the heart. Take a day to do what you find fulfilling and restful, and find God in that. For example, you can probably guess by the title of this blog that I very much enjoy sewing. To make that my Sabbath, I would set aside some time to simply sew. As I sewed, I would dwell on the good things that God has done for me, and reflect on the questions that have been on my mind.

Sabbath is a heart attitude. It is a matter of finding God in the little, fun, joyful moments that fill your day. It's a matter of taking the time to spend time with God, and glorify Him.

Let's catch up!

You: Oh, hey Lydia! It's been forever! How have you been??
Me: Oh, hi there, Reader!! I know, I disappeared for a bit there...sorry about that...I don't even have a good excuse! I've been good, just busy with school and stuff!
You: That's okay, I've been busy too!
Me: Thanks Reader! That is so nice of you! you're so understanding.
You: What kinds of things have you been up to?
Me: Well, school is in full swing, but I have fun classes this semester so that's good. For one of y classes, I even got to design two halloween costumes and display them in a fashion show. It was super fun. I've also continued my involvement with the Well, my church, and my other on-campus activities.
You: That sounds awesome! So, what has God been doing in your life the last few months?
Me: Well, I think He's been showing me a lot about myself and my relationship with Him. It has been a rather humbling experience (Isn't that always the case? Nobody quite likes getting a good look at their true self), but it has been really cool at the same time. Here are some things I've learned about myself:

• I struggle with actively engaging - if I am not consciously thinking about what's happening or being said, I can fall into a pattern of passivity and check out.
• I don't like being in front of large groups of people, but people tend to see me as a leader.
• I am an ISFP on the Myers-Briggs personality test - i.e. I'm pretty quiet until something needs to be done.
• I have the spiritual gift of Shepherding - i.e. I love, love, love taking care of people and guiding them.
• I am a daughter of the King, and that is the important thing. (hey look, I made a rhyme!)

You: wow, that's great! Sounds like you're doing great! Can't wait to read more of the blog  posts that you will regularly write...RIGHT?
Me: yes, yes I promise! ;)

Things I Learned In College

I am nearing the end of my second year, and my little sister is getting ready to graduate. When I think back to high school, I realize just how much I have grown, matured, and learned in the last two years. So even though there will be a lot to add in the next two years, I thought I'd write down some of the things I've come to realize during my college education.

1. Everything changes. Seriously. Everything.
2. It is possible to be friends with boys. I don't know what I thought in high school, but it was something along the lines of "boys are aliens from another planet".
3. Hair straighteners work great in a pinch to iron clothes. Especially for hems and other small spots.
4. Be yourself, or you'll end up with friends who don't know the real you. Nobody wants that.
5. There is a distinct difference between boy movies and girl movies. Who knew?!?
6. The occasional C is okay. Really.
7. Community bathrooms are not that bad. I promise.
8. Most people consider hanging out in graveyards abnormal behavior. The things unique to your family may not be common practice.
9. There will be times when your academics are not your top priority. Things happen, friends need you, it's okay.
10. Most of the time, academics will be your top priority. Everyone stresses about papers and tests. That's okay too.
11. Join only the clubs you love, and get leadership positions in them. Fun times and resume building! Win-win!
12. Don't join everything, just because you don't like saying no. Too many clubs just means too much stress. It is okay to say you aren't interested.
13. You will remember the nights spent stargazing, not the nights spent studying. Live a little.
14. God's got everything under control. Let Him take your stress and worry.

What have you learned in college?