Friends are friends forever

Today I have been thinking a lot about the teens here at Belpre. I will miss so many of them. We have some incredible relationships and my heart aches as I think about moving away...
Sheena - I will miss seeing her sitting on my love seat for hours at a time talking to Michelle and me.
Meridith - I will miss the way she always asks about the details of every trip we are taking.
Michael - I will miss his honest, open struggle to constantly grow as a Christian. He is growing into a powerful man of God.
Davey - I will miss his ability to know what to say and how to say it. He seems to know when to pray and how to comfort.
Kelsey - I will miss her smile and the energy she always has.
Brian - I will miss his silent leadership and strong desire to serve others without wanting any recognition.
Seth - I will miss having him spend the night spotaneously and running around Parkersburg.
Katrina - I will miss her willingness to take a stand and say what needs to be said.
Katelyn - I will miss her absolute passion for God.
Caleb - I will miss his humor, his servant's heart, and his love for kids.
Kyla - I will miss her looks that say "I love you."
Rebecca - I will miss the way she can always find the application in anything I say and package it in a way that is memorable. ("Love is like constipation" - need I say more?)
Rachel - I will miss her encouraging e-mails that always seemed to arrive just when I needed them.
Sara - I will miss being able to have in-depth "nerdy" conversations about school stuff.
Lucas - I will miss the way he says very little, but when he speaks you know he means it and has thought about it.
Vanessa - I will miss her willingness to say whatever she is feeling.

I know this is not everyone, but I think I have mentioned all of the juniors and seniors that I see in class on a regular basis. I am sure I will have more to say in the days to come, but I needed to share some of my emotions. I will really miss these guys and gals. But I can find joy in knowing that God has great plans for them far beyond their time in the Belpre youth group!