January 6, 2011- Chelsea Dougherty

CHELS! If I had a penny for every time either LinLan or I said that this past summer, I might be able to buy a coffee. Chelsea and I grew up going to the wonderful Camp Merri-Mac together but never really got to know each other as campers. This may have had to do with the fact that Chels has always been the MOST caring, MOST loving and MOST selfless woman I have ever known, and at the ages of 14-16 I was the COMPLETE opposite. Regardless, Jesus had a much bigger plan for us and in the time that I did get close with Chels, Jesus was the complete center of our friendship and I am eternally grateful for that.

The majority of our days together were spent doing one of these three things: eating candy from the bitter box in the Moonmist counselor section, dancing with unbelievably wonderful thirteen year old girls, or sharing the life of Jesus with our campers and with each other. The endless nights that we stayed up to hear  how the other's heart was doing or just laugh at the awkward years we both went through meant so much more to me then she might realize. Chels asked every question in the book in the most loving and encouraging way I have ever encountered. She had a way of caring without words, or touch(even though I loved her words and hugs!) and she would listen for hours as I rambled on about life. Chelsea's way of loving is so beautiful to see and be a part of. Her heart is incredible and I cannot wait to see the woman she will become in Christ. Chels taught me that just being there for someone is often the best way to start a relationship and that when you care for someone, they should be a priority to you.

Chels I am so blessed to know you and to have your friendship. It truly means the world to me to know that wherever I go and whatever decisions I make, you will always be there to listen, laugh and love while we eat candy and dance around in pajamas. Jesus has created a bond between us that will never be broken by distance, time or other people and I couldn't be more grateful for that. I love you forever Chels.

Proverbs 18:24
"There are "friends" who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer then a brother."