Drew

My relationship with my oldest brother is probably the single most improved relationship in my life. I know "most improved" carries with it a semi-negative connotation with it, (Memories of winning said award in middle-school Bible quizzing flood my head) but I don't mean to say that our relationship was ever bad, only that as I have grown into my own person, I have begun to realize how similar Drew and I really are. We have similar senses of humor, of right and wrong, of awkwardness and of how we understand people. Drew and I can communicate in glances on a level that is unparalleled with anyone I know. I think a lot of the reason this is the case is because in the moldable stages of my life, Drew was one of the best examples of someone I wanted to emulate. And so I did. I am so grateful to have two brothers who went before me and showed me what to do, and in some cases what not to do. Drew showed me how to handle failures with grace, how to communicate with others in a peaceful manner (something I didn't learn quickly, as he or any other person who knows me can attest) and how to be steadfast in any undertaking I may find myself a part of. These are all words that encapsulate who Drew is: consistent, loyal, hilarious, calm, real and dedicated. But above all, Drew is a servant. I don't know anyone who can serve others, especially the Church, in such a humble and God-honoring way. It is something inspires me on consistently, something that makes me want to serve in the same way. I wish I could offer the Church the same caliber of service that Drew does, but for now, I can settle for the same heart and only hope that my talent one day catches up. The thing about Drew's service is that it isn't only one way he serves. He loves music and he can lead beautifully, but he is just as happy to be in the back, on the sound board or doing whatever is needed. Drew is never the focus of his service or of anything he does, because he has this innate ability to give glory to God through every one of his actions. All of this to say, Drew and I were further apart when I was younger, because I was the opposite of most of these qualities. I was self-centered,  inconsistent, undependable, obnoxious, duplicitous and very, very loud. As I started to rid myself of these things, I began to come closer to Drew, which as it turned out meant I came a lot closer to Christ. And that's what being a leader is all about. So anyway, the whole point is that today is Drew's birthday, and I am beyond honored to call him my brother, mentor, and best friend. Happy birthday Drew! I love you and Gwen both more than you know.