Dear Friends,

Why me? This is one question that I know everyone has asked himself or herself at least once. Often because of a negative situation. I know that’s true for me. Too often I’ve asked God why my life isn’t fair, why it’s so hard, why MY little sister had to die from cancer. Why me? I don’t think I’ll ever know.

But I do need to learn to praise God in all circumstances of “Why me?” In the negative and the positive. As for today’s story, I would like to share about…a positive. As many of you already know, God has given me an awesome opportunity to participate in the Brio Girl Search 2008. I had made the top 20…then the top 8. I have been holding my breath for months, wondering where in the process that God would decide that it was enough. But HE HASN’T YET! As of this morning, I am now a TOP 4 FINALIST! PRAISE GOD! I have spent all day screaming in sheer glee and happiness, and now is my time to pause, turn heavenward, and reflect on this amazing turn of events.

I find myself asking once again, Why me, God, why me? Why did you choose me among the hundreds of teenage girls seeking to serve and glorify You with their lives? You picked me out of the crowd and said, Shine for Me. And once more I can only marvel and thank You for Your grace and blessings. And realize that I probably will not get an answer to that “Why me?” for a while. But I can promise that I will do my best to be a star that beams for you. A star that only gets brighter as time goes on, not fade.

And I see Lydia sitting on your lap, and I know I have a story I want to tell the nations. I have a story I want the world to hear. I have a story that will touch the hearts of all who know it, and urge them to turn to You as well. Lydia, I will tell your story. And God, thank You for such an unbelievable opportunity to share it. I love you.

Please pray that God’s will be continued through me. And that I can play my part in His perfect plan. Thanks to all of you who have stood behind, supporting me and helping me through this entire process. You are all amazing and I thank God for my incredible extended family.

Love,

Esther