FailureMost of my childhood and part of my adult life I didn’t take any risks. I was afraid of failure, of being ridiculed and of what others might say about me. Three years ago, sitting at church, I heard the song, “Lord you have come to the seashore, searching neither rich nor wise, desiring only that I should follow, with your eyes set upon me, gently smiling, you have spoken my name.” He wasn’t looking for courageous or un-afraid people, but just those willing to follow. I took the leap of faith and became a college student at the age of 60. It has been unbelievable. Every action I have taken in the last three years has required a risk. Sure I have been scared, but I know He that called my name! |
StereotypesIn my time at Hesston College, I have realized that I am greater than a stereotype. Baseball players are often perceived negatively. I have strived to be greater than that view, but also not live with a chip on my shoulder. Being a Lark has taught me to find ways to show every side of myself and to grow as a person. |
OpinionsI am a 24-year-old Puerto Rican, living among a majority of white 18- to 20-year-olds. I had a difficult time adjusting to the environment and the people. I cared about what my classmates thought of me and allowed those opinions to guide my thoughts, words and actions. But I am greater than anyone else’s opinions of me. At times I struggle to focus on the opinions that do matter – like I am God’s child and he loves me. |
GradesIn my time here, I have realized I am greater than my grades. It is very easy for me to put my self-worth into my academics instead of as a child of God. Being at Hesston has helped me realize what it means to have my life dedicated to God and to having eternal worth. |
FearI am greater than having fear stop me from taking on opportunities. At Hesston, I have had the opportunity to be part of the women’s basketball team. Before coming to Hesston, I had not played basketball for four years and I was afraid I wouldn’t be good enough. Being on the team with people who come from a different culture and speak a different language has made me more outgoing and confident in my English abilities. |
LabelsWhile I have been at Hesston College I have realized that I am greater than labeling. Hesston is full of different kinds of people who have different stories. Hesston has given me the opportunity to interact with people and hear their stories. It has opened my eyes to the wonderful people that are around me. I have realized that stories and people at Hesston occur outside of Hesston as well, and this has changed how I see people of the world. |
Resisting ChangeHesston College has made me greater than resisting change. Making the decision to attend Hesston was the biggest change in my life. I was born and raised in Orange County, California, where I was accustomed to large populations, tons of activities and sitting for hours in hectic traffic. Learning to adapt to a small-town was difficult. At first, I thought the only entertainment I would find was going to the gym for hours. Throughout my two years here, I have learned to embrace the change. I can go for a run through town and feel safe or have fun spending time with my roommate even if we’re just hanging out in our room. I appreciate the small-town life much more than I could have ever imagined. |
GreedWhile I have been at Hesston College I have truly realized that I am greater than greed. In my life I have been known to be a person that has been too greedy or too possessive of my belongings, but Hesston has opened my eyes to more than just possessions in life. I have realized that I shouldn’t be too concerned with what I own but more my attitude towards others and how I treat people. |