I have been fortunate enough to receive guidance through the CVR during my freshman year on the BIG Questions retreat. During my sophomore year, the center presented leadership opportunities for me through co-facilitating a BIG Questions retreat and joining the Servant Leadership Project. This year SSLP has allowed me to reflect and take time to get my values and motivations on track. Most importantly though, I have had the amazing opportunity to take a close look at the individual I am and connect my dreams and ambitions to my passions and the world's needs. I couldn't have done this without the CVR.
My internship with the CVR has enabled me to develop my many interests into livable passions, or personal goals. While working on projects like writing newsletters, designing pamphlets, or planning for guest speakers, I have been graced with Chris and Amy's quiet hearts full of support and enthusiasm, even when my opinions are different. They have given me freedom to explore my interests through this internship so I can find the way of life that matters most to me. The CVR has encouraged me to follow where my hearts tugs the most. Chris and Amy have instilled in me a sense of worth and a capacity to influence the world, which empowers me to search for opportunities to be productive. I am so grateful for the CVR for empowering me to discover that a service-based career is important to me.
Whether it is a conversation with Chris and discussing our days, working with Amy on developing new ideas, or sitting on the couch with the other interns chatting about program planning, the office has provided the atmosphere necessary for me to uncover a life that's true to who I am. I love the CVR!
Brian Johnson has served as a chaplain at Gustavus since 1996 and is · artistic director for Christmas in Christ Chapel. A 1980 graduate of · Gustavus…
