When in the course of human events....

A Reflectionish moment.

DC will end in 4 days and I am attempting to be reflective about my experience. I remember entering this experience not sure if it was even where the Lord wanted me and questioning how believers are to view the role of government in this world. As my time comes to an end my questions are not fully answered; however, I think I have learned a few things.

I am more sure about:
1) How much the Earth is broken by sin.
2) Our only hope and salvation is in Jesus.
3) I can't do it on my own merit.
4) Ice Cream is expensive everywhere and delicious as well!

I am more confused about:
1) How a nation can be just
2) How to separate a personal connection to a politician and from their actions. Why or why don't we vote for people? Do actions speak louder than words?
3) What is appropriate patriotism?
4) What are the purpose of political parties.

Identity:
- In Washington there is a label for everything: liberal, conservative, democrat, republican, progressive, independent, libertarian, southern, northern, blue dog, socialist, populist....
- Often one label brings with it countless assumptions and no one label seems to fit anyone.
- Business Cards carry a lot of important identifying information in DC.
- You are always asked to defend your identity.
- It is easy to let political opinions overshadow identity in the Christ.

Overload:
-The information and ideas in DC is overwhelming. The news always seems urgent and in your face, there are always conflicting reports and opinions, and everyone is connected by technology (for most hill staffers that is a blackberry).
-Most People rarely take a moment to quiet themselves on capitol hill, it is either work hard or party hard. I've noticed people in my office often comment on how fast time flies by.
- The amount of things that need to be "fixed" and the amount of ways to "fix" them outnumber the cherry blossoms.


I feel like this semester has been a great learning experience and I can't wait to take my lessons back home. I have often felt stilted here. Like I am always waiting, learning, investigating but never acting. I am anxious to be back where I can be productive. The minister of the church I have been attending recently commented that although it will be difficult, it is not to late to be the person God intended. I go back to Charleston with this resolve, that just because it is senior year it is not too late to be the college student God wants.