Instead of turning to blogging in the past 8 months, I've been freaking out about, well, the whole spectrum of 20-something problems in person with my 20-something year-old friends. A lot. Maybe too much. Wellesley girls have a tendency to voice their opinions, frustrations, theories, and explanations at length, especially when 3 or more are gathered.
I recently started reading this blog called the "Thought Catalog". The entries are submitted by writers from all over, and at first I felt like I was reading out of my own journal. It was more than just a connection; a few of the articles were so real and true to my experiences this year that I had that "oh, I'm not actually alone" moment. The sad thing is, after only a few weeks of following this blog, I'm already sick of it. I don't think I can bear to read one more article about how hard it is to be in your twenties. The first 10 articles laid out the insecurities, competition, and difficult job market our generation faces.They discuss the inner struggle to "follow our dreams" like society tells us versus being independent and making money, which society also expects. The articles usually include references to hiding in bed all day watching netflix and lists of things that mean you're not so bad off, after all.
So okay, I get it. After reading a few of these, I stopped to assess. I know all the issues now. I'm not the only one facing them. I thought about the main challenges I'm facing in my life, and what I could do to take some action for good. What worth is there in reading and re-reading other people's worry lists and tyrades?
Last night my church joined 4 others in the South End to pray and sing for the healing of Boston. It was an incredible time of worship lead by the Reality Boston worship team, fellowship, and prayer. The room was packed with people, and we were not shy about lifting up our voices, declaring that yes, even in this time of grief and overwhelming shock and sorrow in our city, it is well in our souls. We split up into small groups of 4-5 people to pray for the victims of Monday's attack, their families and friends, and for healing for Boston. We prayed that people would experience God's love in this time. I prayed that we would see the need in our communities and workplaces, and be courageous to give people with love and service.
In the midst of the songs and scripture readings I also prayed some for my silly twenty-something problems, and for my family. Lists and rants can only get you so far. I've made them, but now I choose to pray, to sing, and to take action.
