Sweet Unexpected Moments

            Some people are very meticulous about what they wear or what they do. They have everything planned from the pair of jeans they are going to wear to the bag that will match their outfits and the things they must accomplish every hour of every day. On the contrary, there are people who like surprises. They are the ones who just goes with the flow and take whatever life throws at them. There is nothing wrong with either one, in fact, I find both as unique personalities. I categorize myself as having both personalities, though.

I like to plan trips. I would usually search ahead of time fun things I can do in a certain place. I like knowing what I need to get done in advance and have ample time to prepare for it. But, when I ponder about it, I feel as though it is not the most helpful characteristic to have especially in a fast-changing world because the world itself is full of unexpected moments. I have learned to embrace unexpected moments also known as surprises. I have grown to like them. Not knowing what to expect and having no idea and knowledge about what is coming my way has always given me the feeling of thrill and excitement. Liking the idea of unexpected moments is a way to bring myself out of my comfort zone.  

For the one and a half month I am in Washington D.C. and New York, everything is planned and set. From what we need to do as interns, its due dates, the churches we are attending every Sunday, the bible study/devotion topics, the seminar lectures, the books we need to read to the people we are going to meet and places we are going to see. It is neat and organized, I like it. We fulfill our duties as interns every day, but at the same time, this internship has thrown us unexpected moments. These unexpected moments got us closer and made us more adventurous than ever before. From getting lost when we first arrived and eventually learning and finding a shop or a restaurant we end up enjoying to regretting buying clothes from the first store because the one from the next is cheaper. Unanticipated moments are always unfolding. Who would have though I would be able to see six different places in one summer, Washington D.C., Virginia, Maryland, New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. These experiences are astonishing.  

                Recently, my co-interns planned an advance surprise party for me since our internship ends a day before my birthday (we always avoid this topic because it’s the saddest thing to think about). I had no clue whatsoever, that they were planning it. They had everything I liked from the balloon colors, the streamers, the cake flavor, the songs, etc. It was unexpected and heart-warming. It surprised me that they noticed little things about me. They made a video with sweet messages, homemade cake, and a photo booth. I felt so appreciated and loved. What surprised me most is the strong love and friendship we have built in such a short period of time. I never knew I would meet such amazing people and be able to spend every day with them. I have always been worried about the people I am going to spend this internship with when I left Guam and now it is too hard to part with them.  

                I do not stress about what is yet to come because whatever it is, God has planned the best for me. God is behind the sweet unexpected moments. When thinking about unforeseen instances, I remember the story of Abraham and Sarah. Sarah, who was past the age of bearing a child but was still blessed with a son by God. I know God has our story and our purpose in his hands. Everything that will come sudden and unexpected in the future whether it is negative or positive will eventually lead to his purpose for us. If there is something I learned in having my disposition in this matter, it is that we do not have to set and configure all that life has to offer, sometimes we just have to enjoy the waves and let it take us back to the shore. 

Julliane Osias

GBCS EYA 2017 Intern

Interfaith Power & Light