I believe my purpose is simply to love and be loved. I truly believe that when one loves fully and unconditionally towards others, one is able to reach their fullest potential. For me, I believe the ultimate example is the relationship between God and His Son. God gave His Son to die for my and our sins. And Jesus loves us and His Father so much to give of Himself so willingly. This is true love. I believe when I love so completely, there is trust. And when you have trust, you have faith. So to me, to love is to have faith in God, oneself, and others. When we have faith, we have hope. In such a confusing world, I think we forget to just love. Instead, we create complexities from our fears. I’ve realized when I let go of these burdens and focus on love, my life is peaceful and so much simpler. Much joy and peace is obtained when one lets go of their trouble and just loves.

2) What do you love, and how do (or will) your actions demonstrate this? (250 words or less.) We at Gaia believe that following your heart is the best way to help the whole planet. What do you care about, and what do you most enjoy doing?

I love my faith, specifically my faith in God. I’m always learning and growing in my relationship with Him. My faith is my center and my priority. For me, I feel compelled to help and serve others, just as God has and is continuing to do in our lives. I’ve realized, through my faith, that my passion is helping to restore others. Because of my relationship with Christ, I hope to show love to others and demonstrate God’s love for them as well. I enjoy encouraging those who are hurting and getting to know them beyond the surface. I want to understand people and care as deeply as Christ does. When people are hurting, I want to support and listen to them. I want to offer a safe place to openly share their hearts. I want to bring them comfort and healing. I may not be perfect, but I know Who is. I may not have all the answers, but I know Who does. I strive to be an example of God’s love. I strongly believe that when I help others, even in what seems like the smallest of actions (such as a smile or kind word), I can make a difference in someone’s life and demonstrate God’s amazing love.

Another way to demonstrate my faith is to try to consistently be a light in my speech, but what is more important, in my actions. While I believe that words are important, I believe words are sometimes empty. I feel that daily actions are more effective. There is a saying that says, “Do as I do, not as I say.” Words can boast and fail, but actions are remembered when determining a person’s true self and motives.

3) Write your ideal job description. (250 words or less.) Forget about job titles like 'doctor' or 'artist' or 'lawyer.' If you could get paid just to live, how would you spend your time? What would you devote your life to? What would your days be like?

My ideal job description would be to counsel others. To listen and guide others when they are hurting or heavy hearted. I enjoy and would enjoy just listening and sharing thoughts and ideas with an individual. Sometimes, some individuals have gone through a situation I may have not come across in my life experiences. However, I find I have a deep compassion and I am able to relate to the individual because I have felt the same feelings they are going through (such as sadness, fear, anger, happiness, etc). These common feelings bring us together, but our differences and ideas allow for both of to learn from the other person. Currently, I am going to school to pursue a career in counseling. Without any hesitation, I would continue my education to gain further knowledge and understanding of the human mind and heart, so that I may better serve others while counseling. My ideal job would also involve traveling to view the wonders of nature, especially the ocean. I would enjoy nature and take time to truly marvel God’s creation. To travel to peaceful areas to quiet my mind, body, and soul from the busyness found in daily life. In my travels, I think would also like to enjoy the beauties of the art and music surrounding me. From paintings to buildings, cultural music to the musical sound of a rainstorm, I would want to be apart of the audience. These travels, along with taking in the sights and sounds around me, would spark much inspiration. My job description would also involve taking this inspiration to turn to my own creative outlets, like writing, to help others. My ideal job is not driven for riches or fame, but to leave a legacy. I would rather be significant than be successful. To impact another’s life in a positive way and make a different in at least one person’s life, would be the most rewarding job for me.