plans

Union Square, Empire State Bldg. in the back

Flatiron Building

Big city. Small world. The second day I was in Manhattan I ran into Chelsea, a friend of Jamie and I’s from Carolina. She lives a block away from me, which has been, praise God, way too convenient! We’ve met up twice since then, once for burgers and once for a walk on the Highline. Then, on Friday, I was crossing the street in the West Village and I saw a Carolina shirt. I was already excited to see that oh-so familiar shade of blue in this melting pot, and then I realized it was my good friend Evan! We both had to double-take. Ends up he is interning at MTV in Times Square—unbelievable. Many lunch breaks and adventures with him to come.

Saturday started off strong. His name was Jack. It was my first time taking the cycling class at NYSC (my gym) and it definitely didn’t disappoint. Not only did Jack put on a killer class, but he was quite the entertainer. As we warmed up, Jack soulfully danced and sang to a Bollywood remix of “Naughty Girl”. Only here… I tucked my face into my shirt and had to laugh. No doubt that will be a Saturday tradition.

I was on a mission for the rest of the day. This was the plan: First, start at the BBQ Block Party in Madison Square Park (no relation to Madison Square Garden) where I unfortunately did not have the paper or the patience to stand in line for an eight-dollar N.C. barbeque sandwich. From there I would head down Broadway to Union Square for the farmer’s market and a falafel lunch, then south for shopping in SoHo. I wasn’t wearing a fanny pack (this time), but I was in vacation mode. I mean I was having a great time, and there’s a lot to be said for having a “plan”, but I realized as I was mall walking to SoHo that I’m living here for the summer. Live. As in I could go shopping in SoHo every day. Live—like I could go to that chocolate shop with free samples if I had a rough intern day. Live—as in I can Google map one day and play “eenie meenie” the next. I’m really thankful for this, just don’t think I’m taking these two months for granted.

This morning I went to one of Summit’s partner churches in Manhattan. Ah, it was good to be back. Once again, God cooly reminded me of how important Christian community is, even in a fifth floor room of strangers. I really don’t know how people can survive in the city without it. It was a small gathering, but I loved it. Check out their site: gallerychurch.com

The teaching at the Gallery along with some pretty raw prayer/journaling time I had on Friday morning has been good. I know God can work in huge miracles, alter fires and epiphanies, but that’s not the norm. It’s His whisper—it’s His presence that is the greatest comfort. While my mind searches for plans and solutions, God just asks for my trust.

Man, all of that and it’s only been eight days…

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