Sous Chef Gina

Closing my left eye to a wrinkle, my right eye finds the center of wrapping paper roll staring down whoever is in the room like I am a pirate on top of a ship. I'd say this is a younger me story, but it's not. However, when I was younger I thought it made me see farther. Now, I realize it just limits and focuses my view. I do not know this Sous Chef all that well. You could say we work separate shifts usually. My view of Gina is limited like my eyesight and there is a good chance I am missing the best parts about her. Yet, she has impacted my life and faith enough that God has called me to write about her today.

Meeting Gina:

I met Gina on our Ignite Bible study leaders retreat. She was in Jack and I's leader small group. The first distinct memory I have is her taking on the bold task of a walk with Jack and me. On this particular day, Jack and I's brains were running strong so to enter into a philosophical conversation is a bold task as we feed off each other. Gina held her own and didn't give into quick thinking or refrain from entering into deep conversation. An impressive feat indeed.

What inspires me about Gina:

1) She celebrates others. There have been quite a few instances in which members of her group have contributed unique things to her Bible study. She has brought them to the attention of the leaders sharing and showing her appreciation of other's uniqueness. To me, she was one of the first people to compliment me after the Exponent article went out. Celebrating others is something we can all get better at, so one of the people I look to is Gina.

2) Everything about Gina feels under control or thought out. I, on the other hand, have words come out of my mouth before they come to my brain. Again, I do not know Gina super well, but the calmness is an evident Grace within her. She didn't let the bold claims or thoughts by Jack and I overwhelm her. She isn't distracted by chaos or her own needs, so she is very aware of the needs of those around her. Her calmness is warmly welcoming and hospitable. We once had a conversation about letter writing with our campus minister. I was impressed by how she brought a new perspective to the table with backing and ideas that my prideful and self-labeled creative brain did not consider.

3) She desires a closer relationship with Christ.

4) Gina is someone who you know is a Christian without asking. Yet, normally I say that about extroverted people. The types of people who feel like they know everyone and treat everyone right. Gina does it in a receptive and caring way that I find unique.

Gina:

Although you may not know it, you are a Christian leader in my life. Thank you for your witness and example. It makes it easier for me to take the next step in my faith when I have examples of how to do that right in front of me. I hope to continue to get to know you better. You are a blessing to so many!