Smelling the Roses
I am deeply grateful for the last seven months in which I have been part of the Nashville Fellows. This program has affected the way I see everyday life and the people I interact with. I have seen life, love, and more joy than I knew was possible. One thing I have experienced this year is the generosity of people. I have been blown away by how quick people are to give. The Fellows Program is set up to teach us how to be Christian leaders in the workforce, but I believe I have learned best how to live generously. Not to live in abundance but to learn how to use the means I have and bless other people the way I have been blessed throughout these months. Let me tell you just how much I’ve received through my people this year!
We have the honor of living with a host family during Fellows, and I have lived with two! All I can say is what a joy it has been. My first host family has two young girls who welcomed me with open arms. I got to color Disney princess books, draw on the sidewalk with chalk, and ooh and ahh every time Sophia came out in a princess dress! I can’t forget stroller walks and the goodbye wave at the front window every time I left the house. What a gift it is to be able to walk alongside a family of believers and learn from two phenomenal parents. Shoutout Morgan and Leah!
During this spring semester, I have also had the opportunity to live with one of the wisest women I know. I am greeted every morning by a smile, definitely a laugh, and an open Bible on her desk. My host mom has been such a blessing and encouragement to me this semester. I am spurred on by her undivided love for the Lord and how she graciously opens her home, pantry, and arms to me.
I also attend Covenant church and serve as a small group leader for the eighth-grade girls. It is refreshing to be surrounded by young, vivacious girls who are eager to learn more about Jesus. The parents of my small group of girls are quick to ask if I need help and to give their thanks for the time I spend with the girls. Since my first Sunday at Covenant, I have been greeted by someone in the church who genuinely wants to get to know me. What a gift to serve and love such a joyful community!
I could say so many more things about the generosity of the people I’ve met, but I don’t think the list would end. The Fellows program has so much to offer, but I will give a few examples of the ways I’ve seen the generosity of God’s heart towards me.
The sunrise I see driving each morning to work
the greeting I get from the kitchen staff every time I return from a food delivery at work
The birdies chirping on afternoon walks
my eighth-grade girls who are excited to be in small group
the giggles of Jacqueline and Sophia
Emily’s contagious laugh
SB’s joy
Abby’s affection and loyalty
Faith’s love that breaks through every barrier
The guys who keep us laughing and exemplify the love of Christ every day.
These examples speak for themselves on how much I love this program.
Mary Spencer Little, Class 12
Hometown: New Albany, Mississippi
Mississippi State Graduate
