Sunday, October 3, 2010

A Father Is

A Father Is

A father is someone who sacrifices his wishes
day in, and day out,
for the benefit of those under his care.
A father is someone who places the wellbeing of
his family first.
A father is someone who is not afraid to swallow
his pride and admit he was wrong.
A father is someone who leads by example,
someone you'd be proud to follow.
A father is someone you can trust,
someone who will protect.
A father is someone you can share your heart with
when life gets rough.
A father is someone who listens.
A father is someone who loves.
This is my father.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Standing Against the Grain: Can One Person Really Make a Difference?

            Taking a stand for something that is not supported by mainstream society is difficult to say the least. As humans, it is natural for us to want to fit in; we long for a sense of belonging and group cohesion. Sometimes, we may also ask ourselves "What difference does it make? I am only one person". Do not be silenced by this lie - you have a greater sphere of influence than you could ever imagine.
            So how do we take a stand? Sometimes it can be as simple as bowing our heads to pray for a meal in the cafeteria. In other situations, we may need to take a position on a moral issue such as academic honesty or the value of all human life. However, when we take a stand we need to be careful to do it in a fashion that is pleasing to God. This does not mean that we compromise; rather, we handle a situation in a proper manner.
            In addition, how do we maintain grace and the ability to have a positive influence in a delicate conversation? First, do not get emotional. This only adds fuel to the fire and destroys our credibility. Second, do not place blame or accusations on others involved in the conversation. This will cause them to become hostile and will hinder us from building trust. We should state the facts and give parallel examples that support the truth we are striving to communicate. Avoid using words like 'you' as that directs the negativity of the subject toward the individual we are conversing with. Try to use more general terms such as 'they' or 'people' and include words like 'sometimes'. Also avoid personal opinion if there are no specific facts to back up the point at hand. Feelings or thoughts do not provide a firm footing to stand on and are hard to defend. Our fellow man/woman will punch holes in our credibility faster that we can say "Jack Robinson Caruso" and we will have lost a wonderful opportunity. Stick to that which is defendable and the outcome will be much more solid.
             History makes an excellent measuring stick. Take for instance how evolutionary thinking contributed to the Holocaust. It is important to note that horrific events rarely occur over night. Rather, they are the result of a step-by-step degrading of the moral compass of individuals, communities, or nations that occurs overtime.
            Let's stand together on the issue of taking a stand. Don't wait 'till you're perfect, confident, or experienced; that day will never come. Spread your wings and take flight! Fluidity and confidence come with time and practice. Keep in mind the end goal. Someone once said, "Against the grain should be a way of life, what's worth the prize is always worth the fight".

For God and Country,

Sara
Conservative College Student of America

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Even Adults Need Superheroes

             As children we are often captivated by superheroes. They become the center of our imaginations and we develop games and mock scenario where we reenact or mimic the superheroes' persona. We are drawn to their strength, invincibility, and will to do good.
            As adults, our need for heroes still exists. We often look up to people who have made a significant accomplishment, took a stand on a key issue, or gave their life to protect the life of another. Why is it important to have heroes? Because they can inspire us to take action and defy the natural laws of humanity that cause us to want to blend in.
            I encourage you to create a list of heroes/heroines and allow their bold actions to challenge you to step beyond your comfort zone. Having heroes can be a very motivating force when we stand against something that is difficult. Heroes set a standard we would be proud/privileged to follow.
            I would love to hear from you and learn who some of your personal heroes are. Please send your lists and a brief synopsis as to why those individuals are your heroes/heroines to: conservativestudentsusa@yahoo.com 


 For God and Country,

Sara
Conservative College Student of America

Saturday, September 11, 2010

When Worlds Collide: Christianity & College

The Great College Debate                                                   9/10/10                                    
            College…A word that signals the beginning of individuality and autonomy for young adults. However, this same word has a polar opposite meaning for the Christian parent: secularization and humanistic brainwashing. Unfortunately, the answer to this problem is not as simple as attending a 'Christian' college, as many of these are no longer based on a strong Biblical foundation. They have “drunk the Kool-Aid” of humanism and are often no better than the secular colleges.
            The false idea that parents can protect youth from secularization by not allowing them to go to college is a false hope. It's not just the colleges; the whole world is wallowing in the mire of humanism. Furthermore, Christ has not called us to live like hermits in our own little Christian utopias, rather we are called to reach the lost. We have a duty to be on the front lines where the action is. We are not to become like the world, but to be a shining light for Christ.
            So then, as Christians how do we equip ourselves to stand? I would say that one of the most instrumental things that a young adult can do to prepare him/herself for college is to really examine what they believe and ask themselves, "Why do I believe this?" Because when your boots hit the ground, believing something just because your parents do is not going to cut the mustard. First Peter 3:15 says: "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear."
           

For God and Country,

Sara
Conservative College Student of America

Friday, September 10, 2010

Coming Soon

Are you a conservative college student and often feel like you're the only one out there? Well, things are about to change! The goal of this blog is to provide motivation, in addition to challenging, conservative college students to take a stand for their beliefs. So, if you are a high school senior preparing to head off to college, an academic veteran, or a concerned parent of a conservative young adult, this is the place for you. I hope to get things off the ground very soon - hang in there.
 
For God and Country