Its July first and all I can think about is leaving in 12 days. Its incredible how you see life so differently when you are ready to leave everything you've known.
This past week I got the incredible opportunity to travel to Holland, Michigan for my 5th year of CIY. This was a great time to really reflect about my life, my future, and Gods plan for both. This was a great week for me to share how I felt about everything to God and to my friends. The week was amazing because it was one last huge hurrah with CCV.
I wake up and the first thing I think is... "I have ___ many days to wake up in my bed, in my house, being comfortable.
I go to bed thinking, there goes one more day, Did I spend it the way I wanted?
Don't get me wrong, I am not depressed about what I am doing. I am not annoyed with my decision or regretting it. I have never done anything this huge in my life. (thats what she said)
Im excited! I am stoked! I am ready! I feel ready! I feel prepared! Its the right thing and I believe so.
I want the spend the next 12 doing things that make me the happiest, with the people I love, with people who I wont let go of when I leave. I will blog for the next 12 days...all leading up to my goodbye.
God, Thank You for allowing me to serve with the best team,
E
I never was a pastor and as far as I am concerned I never will be. I don't feel like its my calling. But I can explain.
A few years ago if you would've told me I was going to be in the military I would've peed my pants and said no way Jose. 2 years ago I thought I had it all planned out for me. Here's what I had going on
Two years ago I dreamed of being a youth pastor...hence the title, "Pastor to Private" I loved it!! I loved following my old youth pastor around, doing youth ministry things. I dreamed youth ministry. Well of course God threw me an unexpected curve ball and my emotions eventually changed.
Last year I went on an incredible missions trip with an incredible group of people. We stayed in Juarez, Mexico. While we were staying in El Paso, TX we were living right next to a military base. FT Bliss. It was cool driving by and seeing tanks, cannons, soldiers, barracks, Humvees and all other crazy military things. While down there in Mexico I was seeing how cool it was to serve. I was out of my comfort zone, even though most of you seem to think Mexico is my home (You know who you all are, and I hate you :-)
While in Mexico I experienced serving in a totally different environment. Now I am a mind-reader and I know what you are thinking, "If you loooove God, and you love serving, and you wanted to be a pastor than why don't you just work in the field of doing missions trips?" That's a great question! I loved helping the people in Mexico but....
I love danger
I love protecting others
I love blowing stuff up
I love guns
I want the challenge
I want the experience
I want the uniform
I want to be a part of the United States Armed Forces
As I was sitting on the plane home, on a plane with more soldiers than civilians I was thinking about life and what I wanted to do...
Im going to serve my King, and my country.
Hooah,
Evan
A few years ago if you would've told me I was going to be in the military I would've peed my pants and said no way Jose. 2 years ago I thought I had it all planned out for me. Here's what I had going on
Two years ago I dreamed of being a youth pastor...hence the title, "Pastor to Private" I loved it!! I loved following my old youth pastor around, doing youth ministry things. I dreamed youth ministry. Well of course God threw me an unexpected curve ball and my emotions eventually changed.
Last year I went on an incredible missions trip with an incredible group of people. We stayed in Juarez, Mexico. While we were staying in El Paso, TX we were living right next to a military base. FT Bliss. It was cool driving by and seeing tanks, cannons, soldiers, barracks, Humvees and all other crazy military things. While down there in Mexico I was seeing how cool it was to serve. I was out of my comfort zone, even though most of you seem to think Mexico is my home (You know who you all are, and I hate you :-)
While in Mexico I experienced serving in a totally different environment. Now I am a mind-reader and I know what you are thinking, "If you loooove God, and you love serving, and you wanted to be a pastor than why don't you just work in the field of doing missions trips?" That's a great question! I loved helping the people in Mexico but....
I love danger
I love protecting others
I love blowing stuff up
I love guns
I want the challenge
I want the experience
I want the uniform
I want to be a part of the United States Armed Forces
As I was sitting on the plane home, on a plane with more soldiers than civilians I was thinking about life and what I wanted to do...
Im going to serve my King, and my country.
Hooah,
Evan
May 19, 2009
Everyone fears it, but not everyone has to go through it. So I leave July 13th for Ft Benning Georgia. My emotions are running all over the place
I am not happy because: I have a little summer, leave my best friends I have, I'll be pushed harder than I ever had, July in the south is not fun at all, I will miss my church community, I will miss the summer nights, the bonfires...
I am happy because: Im on a new chapter of life, Im testing my faith, Im pushing my body physically and emotionally to make me a better person, I get to play with Guns, I get to travel, I get to experience things not many people will, I'll get an amazing oppertunity to serve, I'll make amazing new friends, I get to put on the uniform I've always admired.
Either way I am leaving In July and I am enjoying every last moment I get to spend with my friends. Until then I'm going to have a blast! The summer has been great so far! Stick around for more posts until July 13, 2009.
One Love,
PVT Flora
I am not happy because: I have a little summer, leave my best friends I have, I'll be pushed harder than I ever had, July in the south is not fun at all, I will miss my church community, I will miss the summer nights, the bonfires...
I am happy because: Im on a new chapter of life, Im testing my faith, Im pushing my body physically and emotionally to make me a better person, I get to play with Guns, I get to travel, I get to experience things not many people will, I'll get an amazing oppertunity to serve, I'll make amazing new friends, I get to put on the uniform I've always admired.
Either way I am leaving In July and I am enjoying every last moment I get to spend with my friends. Until then I'm going to have a blast! The summer has been great so far! Stick around for more posts until July 13, 2009.
One Love,
PVT Flora
May 13, 2009
I still remember my mom pushing me out of the door on the first day of 1st grade. I still remember what I was wearing. Red sweat pants and and a red shirt. I was crying hysterically. I told her I couldn't go because I felt like I was going to throw up. I was horrified because this was truly the first time I was leaving my house for a long time. I walked to the bus stop with Adam crying. He always tried to tell me everything was going to be just fine. He always protected my on the bus. He's always had my back. Everyday I left my mom waved to me at the same window.
When Adam went to middle school and I was in second grade she came with me to the bus stop everyday. We always talked.
She worked in the cafeteria for a few years and kids always got grossed out when they saw the lunch lady kissing a boy...but it was my momma. She always got me a little something too :)
Middle school rolled around and I was one goofy kid. I had a tough time adjusting to a new building and dealing with the big bad 8Th graders. What an awkward time in life. I don't miss any part of middle school. I spent my days talking about squirrels and trying to figure out why my voice was getting deeper.
I still remember perfectly the first day of high school. I was small and the seniors were big and had beards. Enough said. I remember getting off the bus and just walking into massive crowds of people. I got lost for a while. Freshmen year seemed to be never-ending. Sophomore year was a blur, and junior year was annoying. Senior year was the best hands down. I had all the perfect classes, was with my awesome friends, and definitely met some really cool new people. This year flew and I had one great time. I got in the car today, looked back at the school and waved and said, "you treated me well" and drove off.
Im done. I am finished high school and it sure does come with many different emotions.
Im on senior career study until graduation. June 12th.
Im sitting here now asking, am I ready for the next chapter?
When Adam went to middle school and I was in second grade she came with me to the bus stop everyday. We always talked.
She worked in the cafeteria for a few years and kids always got grossed out when they saw the lunch lady kissing a boy...but it was my momma. She always got me a little something too :)
Middle school rolled around and I was one goofy kid. I had a tough time adjusting to a new building and dealing with the big bad 8Th graders. What an awkward time in life. I don't miss any part of middle school. I spent my days talking about squirrels and trying to figure out why my voice was getting deeper.
I still remember perfectly the first day of high school. I was small and the seniors were big and had beards. Enough said. I remember getting off the bus and just walking into massive crowds of people. I got lost for a while. Freshmen year seemed to be never-ending. Sophomore year was a blur, and junior year was annoying. Senior year was the best hands down. I had all the perfect classes, was with my awesome friends, and definitely met some really cool new people. This year flew and I had one great time. I got in the car today, looked back at the school and waved and said, "you treated me well" and drove off.
Im done. I am finished high school and it sure does come with many different emotions.
Im on senior career study until graduation. June 12th.
Im sitting here now asking, am I ready for the next chapter?
May 4, 2009
Yup, Its official!
I returned from Ft Dix, NJ lastnight! I was at MEPS (Military Examination Process Station)
It was a long day that started at 400AM. The day was a lot of sitting, a lot of signing, a lot of medical testing.
I started off really nervous. I signed my contract then I was taken to the place where I get sworn in....It went kinda like this:
"I Do So Solemnly Swear
That I Will Support and Defend the Constitution of the United States
Against All Enemies
That I Will Bear True Faith and Allegiance to the Same
And that I Will Obey the Orders of the President of the United States
And the Orders of the Officers Appointed Over Me
According to the Regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice
So Help Me God"
and then it was done...
The next couple months are going to be challenging. Its going to be the start of my physical and emotional challenge. I'm nervous. I'm excited. Stick around to see whats going to happen as time progresses. This blog is also going to be a way for people to keep track of me once I depart Collegeville, PA!
Holding onto my faith harder than ever
Hooahh,
Evan Flora
I returned from Ft Dix, NJ lastnight! I was at MEPS (Military Examination Process Station)
It was a long day that started at 400AM. The day was a lot of sitting, a lot of signing, a lot of medical testing.
I started off really nervous. I signed my contract then I was taken to the place where I get sworn in....It went kinda like this:
"I Do So Solemnly Swear
That I Will Support and Defend the Constitution of the United States
Against All Enemies
That I Will Bear True Faith and Allegiance to the Same
And that I Will Obey the Orders of the President of the United States
And the Orders of the Officers Appointed Over Me
According to the Regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice
So Help Me God"
and then it was done...
The next couple months are going to be challenging. Its going to be the start of my physical and emotional challenge. I'm nervous. I'm excited. Stick around to see whats going to happen as time progresses. This blog is also going to be a way for people to keep track of me once I depart Collegeville, PA!
Holding onto my faith harder than ever
Hooahh,
Evan Flora
Apr 29, 2009
There are two types of love that I have a hard time grasping my mind around. No, this message has nothing to do with God. Although that is the greatest love on earth, It will NOT be the topic of todays blog.
My 18th birthday is Friday, and I feel as if my mom is fearing that date more than ever. Shes always had control over me, shes always had a say in what I do. But Friday, I'll be free. Not that I am joyful about this occasion. I will tell you hands down that I do have the coolest mom on the planet, and sorry if your offended but stay at my house for a week and you'll see what I am talking about. Be jelous
For 26 years my mom has always played the role of, well mom. Not that she is ever going to stop, but for the past 26 years someone has always lived under her roof, under her care.
My sister has been gone for what seems like forever, my brother is leaving this summer for Arizona, and I am leaving for military duties. Who is left? No one. We'll my Dad will be around but there will be a post for him later in time.
This I cant comprehend. My mom loves being a mom so much that some time it gets annoying, but I know she really really really cares. I cant imagine this house being just my mom and dad.
I have never had a love that even compares to the love she has for me, I just cant fathom having an "empty nest."
I was at the Silvers house this weekend, and I just would see Matt and Carrie with their kids. Seeing them made me see what things my mom has gone through with me. Those are two extremely loving parents I might add. Since the joy of them adopting me (just kidding I am not adopted.) Since they day she knew about my existence, the late late nights up crying, the fights, the first day of school (which I will never forget) and going through grades 1-12 she has always been there, she never stopped loving. Saying goodbye might just me the hardest thing I will ever have to do
Love you Mom,
Evan
My 18th birthday is Friday, and I feel as if my mom is fearing that date more than ever. Shes always had control over me, shes always had a say in what I do. But Friday, I'll be free. Not that I am joyful about this occasion. I will tell you hands down that I do have the coolest mom on the planet, and sorry if your offended but stay at my house for a week and you'll see what I am talking about. Be jelous
For 26 years my mom has always played the role of, well mom. Not that she is ever going to stop, but for the past 26 years someone has always lived under her roof, under her care.
My sister has been gone for what seems like forever, my brother is leaving this summer for Arizona, and I am leaving for military duties. Who is left? No one. We'll my Dad will be around but there will be a post for him later in time.
This I cant comprehend. My mom loves being a mom so much that some time it gets annoying, but I know she really really really cares. I cant imagine this house being just my mom and dad.
I have never had a love that even compares to the love she has for me, I just cant fathom having an "empty nest."
I was at the Silvers house this weekend, and I just would see Matt and Carrie with their kids. Seeing them made me see what things my mom has gone through with me. Those are two extremely loving parents I might add. Since the joy of them adopting me (just kidding I am not adopted.) Since they day she knew about my existence, the late late nights up crying, the fights, the first day of school (which I will never forget) and going through grades 1-12 she has always been there, she never stopped loving. Saying goodbye might just me the hardest thing I will ever have to do
Love you Mom,
Evan
Apr 19, 2009
I was nervous yesterday. I was nervous this afternoon. But I finally feel relieved and I feel as if I hit the point of being comfortable.
Today after school today the Army recruiter took me to the 0ffice to get some stuff done. I was asked a ton of questions; criminal history, health history etc. My height and weight was taken. 18% body fat, not bad. I was given a nice big packet that I filled out. I asked a ton of questions about dates, departure, basic combat training, MEPS, blah blah blah... It was exciting.
When I was on my way home, the recruiter said, "Congrats your 50% closer to being in the Army. It was exciting! I take the ASVAB finally on Tuesday @ Willow Grove.
All thats left is the physical, signing my name, and taking oath. That all has to be competed when I am 18 (two weeks!) Today though was definitely a great day and got me feeling more comfortable with this intense decision!
Today after school today the Army recruiter took me to the 0ffice to get some stuff done. I was asked a ton of questions; criminal history, health history etc. My height and weight was taken. 18% body fat, not bad. I was given a nice big packet that I filled out. I asked a ton of questions about dates, departure, basic combat training, MEPS, blah blah blah... It was exciting.
When I was on my way home, the recruiter said, "Congrats your 50% closer to being in the Army. It was exciting! I take the ASVAB finally on Tuesday @ Willow Grove.
All thats left is the physical, signing my name, and taking oath. That all has to be competed when I am 18 (two weeks!) Today though was definitely a great day and got me feeling more comfortable with this intense decision!
Apr 7, 2009
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