The Pure Design Autumn Gala was an amazing night filled with THREE wonderful role models! As I took the microphone to end the night, I realized this was exactly what I hoped the night would be! An evening of inspiration by three young adults in entirely different walks of life – sports, fashion and music. We began with a fantastic fashion show by Lindsey Turner of Thrift and Shout. Lindsey clothed fourteen models with fun school looks for fall and winter along with some dressier looks for the holidays. Models strutted down the red carpet reminding us how fun new looks bring a smile to our faces. Former OSU Kicker Ben Buchanan encouraged all to be secure in who they are and how God has made them. He reminded us to stay connected to positive role models, surround ourselves with solid friends and leaders, and to remain close to parents and family during those tough college years. He encouraged everyone that we will have difficulties and make mistakes, but the key is in keeping connected through authentic friendships, small groups and a real relationship with Christ! Heather Evans ended the evening with both fun and powerful music bringing to light the topic of human trafficking which is dear to her heart.
All three are walking out the purposes of God for their lives individually. Each of them are responding to the dreams, passions, and God-given desires inside. Ben’s love for football is leading him to pursue a career in sports broadcasting. Lindsey’s passion for fashion drives her to thrift shop several times and week, blog about her finds, and resell them to friends and family who don’t have the time or expertise to shop for themselves. Heather’s drive to make a difference in the world is being fueled by her gifting in music. She writes songs of hope and challenges her listeners to know what is truly happening in the earth today.
I sat back and watched each of them so passionate in their unique giftings. I was amazed and encouraged again to see when we are faithful to go for the things that God births inside our hearts, He will be faithful to open doors that no man can shut and lead us into all He has for us to be.
One of my favorite verses is Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and future! This is God’s promise to each and every one of us. He has good things for us all!
So run after those things stirring in your heart. Dream your dreams, create those inventions, write those songs, paint those pictures! Whatever is on the inside – that you “gotta do or you’re just gonna burst”, go after them and do them! God will give us the desires of our hearts, if you faithfully submit your plans to him.
Lastly, surround yourself with positive role models – they are out there! You may have to search a little harder to find them. The media won’t put them on display too often. But Friday night proved there ARE positive role models in every arena who are thrilled to share what they have learned!
