I woke up at 7:45, got ready, had some yummy breakfast (a cinnamon-raisin bagel with cream cheese, a cinnamon muffin, fruit, and milk), got my stuff together, and got on the bus. We only had to wait 10 minutes or so for the bus to come...and that was at a later, more popular time. We were happy with that. We headed to the Convention Center, where we took in the following programs.
Being the Light in a Dark World -- Sarah Guldalin and her hilarious brother, Jordan, inspired and empowered the teens to not give up hope, even when there is much suffering in this world. Through testimonies, videos, and crowd participants, we were encouraged to be the light, as the Bible tells us in Matthew 5:14. This was at 10 AM.
Transformed Testimonies -- Reverend Dr. Tilahun Mendedo gave us his personal life story on growing up in Ethiopia and becoming involved in ministry, which led him to his current position in Alabama. He gave us deep insight on Ethiopian culture, history, and life there today. He also told his entire story, from childhood to the current time. To tie it all up, he encouraged all of the teens to not give up hope, but to trust in God's perfect plan for us. This was at 12 PM.
We took a quick lunch break after that. We sat out on a patio of the Convention Center and enjoyed tuna wraps, crackers, cheese sticks, applesauce, and apple juice, all while watching the comings and goings on the River Walk.
Jamie Grace Concert -- The up-and-coming Christian singer kept everyone on their feet singing, clapping, and dancing through this 45-minute performance. In between songs, she gave encouraging messages to boys and girls alike. Her sister, Morgan, sang a few songs with her. Furthermore, Jamie and Morgan were homeschooled...I am, too, so it was fun to see the connection. This was at 2 PM.
Improv Comedy -- We could tell this was going to be popular, since we arrived at least 20 minutes before and could only get seats towards the back...way back from the stage. Regardless, we quickly learned that it didn't matter. Three guys (from three different states) kept us laughing for over an hour with jokes, debates, and skits...all made up as they went (with some help from the crowd). This was hilarious!!!
In between events, we were able to run through the exhibit halls and check out the games, booths, and other fun opportunities available. I got a pin, bandana, magazine, and towel. Tomorrow, we'll be going around for some more freebies.
We finally found a spot for supper after walking around for an hour-and-a-half. It seems that all the other NYG teens went to supper at exactly the same time we did!! We had great Mexican food at Maria Mia (I had the taco salad) before heading to the Alamodome. We stood in line for awhile before racing in...it paid off; we got nice seats right down on the floor of the Dome, where we could see everyone on stage and the screens (not like Monday night). The Mass Event (from 8:30 to 10 PM) was like last night -- full of singing, devotionals, encouragement, and fun (Gathering News and the Skit Guys...awesome!). Tonight, we had an incredible speaker (Mia Koehne) who had come from a very broken and messed-up background. I have nothing but great things to say about her...absolutely inspiring. To round out the night, we had BMX riders twist, twirl, jump, and spin. After the prayer, we raced out to the first bus and got on! To the hotel by 10:50. I will bid you good-night for now but check back tomorrow for Day 3 of the NYG!
~Anna~
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