Mikael Heck (Day 9 of #30daysoflittlethings Challenge)

I am thankful for Mikael Heck, so here is a letter to you, Mikael...

I remember first meeting you. I was in eighth grade...and a crazy and energetic person. You were quiet, and laid back, staying close to the walls of the Loft building. I wasn't entirely sure how I felt about you at first, I was still pretty bitter that our other youth pastor wasn't staying with us. But I decided that I needed to be welcoming anyway. I ran up to you and said "Hi! I'm Megan!", while a kid whispered to you that I was crazy...that was probably true. You're reaction was priceless, you gave me the weirdest look anybody has given me. I'm pretty sure I scared you right away. 

But you took the job and became our youth pastor. And that ended up being the greatest thing. Why? Because you have influenced me SO much! You have pushed me beyond my comfort zone, to where I am able to excel at what I do. You know my strengths and weaknesses, better than I know them myself to be honest, and you care. You have never failed to show me that you care, and I am thankful for that. You take time out of your day to listen to me, and to pour into me the knowledge that you have, which I gladly take in. You care about my relationship with Jess and have helped us along the way. Giving us so much wisdom that will help us in the future. You help me acknowledge the fact that my relationship with Christ is THE most important thing in my life, and that that is what I need to strive for everyday. You have helped me grow more with leading worship, and have taught me many things along the way. You are so important to me, you are like a father to me, and I am thankful for you.

I am going to miss you so much when you move away. It is going to be very painful, but I am so glad that you and your family will be happy once you are back home. I am so thankful for you, and for everything you have done for me. (I'm getting teary eyed just writing this) You have impacted my life so greatly, and I am thankful that you have been a part of it.