Community

The community that Erin and I have experienced over the last few months has overwhelmed us. We spent four years at Living Hope without experiencing community even close to what we have experienced (that is no one's fault but our own). We are burdened now for all the other students that are missing this amazing community.

It took me (Matt) two years to join a HOPE group and even another year before I was really involved. It took me three years before I joined the praise team. All I know is that I feel like I wasted alot of that time. I was too "busy" was almost always the excuse.

Erin and I now have a burden for people (mostly students) just like us. For the younger guys I know, I am burdened that they can find community like I have now, but much quicker. That they would not wait like I did. I know Erin feels the same way about the younger girls she knows.

I have learned so many things as a result of the community I live in. Some things are spiritual, some things aren't. Here is a list of some of the things I have learned:

1. Guitar Hero is not just for crazy college students. It is for everyone. Everyone needs to rock. It will also bring you and your wife instant fame. Conversations at church now goes like this:

Me - "Hi I am Matt and this is my wife Erin"
Other person - "YOU are THE Matt and Erin" - said with stars in their eyes
Me - "Yes?" - stated very confounded
Other person - "I hear you guys are amazing at Guitar Hero. Can you play a song right now?"
Me - "Now? Worship is about to start..."
Other person (very excited) - "OH you could play during worship!! YEAH! On the big screen..."
Me - grabbing Erin and walking away quickly

2. Heather's salsa is amazing.

3. Driving all the way to Brenham for a tour of the Blue Bell Factory is only worth it if you get to watch Curious George in the back of a minivan with four other kids under the age of 7.

4. Our church is answering the call of taking care of orphans. Many people are taking on life-long commitments because they understand that the blessings they have been given are not just for them.

5. Fire stations are really sweet...So are videos on YouTube of fire trucks.

6. High School Musical is awesome and having a dance party in your living room with three other BOYS is totally ok even though it started with just you and your wife.

The list could go on. I will stop there. Feel free to add anything to the list you would like in the comments section.