My Amazing Youth

My Dearest Youth of Welsey UMC,

Over a year and a half ago, we were meeting for the first time. I was a first time youth director. More nervous than I have ever been. Scared out of my mind. Excited for this new journey.  Expectations were hard for me to come up with because I didn't know if I would be any good at this role.  Not sure what you all were going to be like.  Would you like me?  Would you ever open up?  Is anyone going to be able to trust me? So many thoughts going through my mind as I pondered what exactly it was that I was getting myself into. 

I knew we were meant for each other the second I found out you all liked missions and sports. Clearly a match made in heaven. But would those common passions be enough to be an effective youth director? I mean, in my mind I was going to have to live up to my former youth director! How could I ever be as amazing as she was... and still is? But the very first Sunday we met, all my fears, anxieties, and doubts were taken away by God.

I am writing this letter so that one day my daughter will read it, and know how dear each one of you are to my heart. Your pursuit to live more like Christ each day, to serve others unselfishly, and to grow in your relationships with God are all qualities that I hope to teach my children.  Martha and I are having our first child in June. But, I feel like I already have been blessed with so many "kids".  You have taught me more over the course of our time together then you will ever reallize. I am so grateful to be a part of your lives.  Countinue to grow strong in your faith my Youth. And always know that I love each one of you dearly.

-David