Thank You, Wesley: Duran Crutchfield
For the majority of my life, I think I’ve been an introvert. I’d like to pass the time being mostly by myself and listening to music with headphones. Completely zoning out the world. I was never sad about it; I just felt as if that was my personality and how I would be. I was content with that. It was when I got to college that I realized that mindset would have to change. My mom would tell me about how I would have to interact with everyone to form connections and that those connections would help me grow as a person and take me to new heights. I would have to join clubs, organizations, fraternities, and in doing so the time I spent with them would grant me internships, job opportunities, and something great that I could add to my resume. This of course overwhelmed me, and I felt that I needed to make mental preparations for this new phase in life.
I finally got to college, and I was still really antisocial, to the point that my mom felt the need to forcefully introduce me to people. This of course led to a plethora of awkward smiles, but I didn’t want to let her down, so I attempted to connect with these new people. Finally, she introduced me to who would become my best friend, Jaylon King. I initially also felt awkward talking to him, and I had a feeling he felt the same way. He was going to be staying in my dorm, and thanks to my mom’s incisiveness, I was encouraged to meet him again.
My mom wanted me to be really active on campus with clubs, sports, etc. But most importantly, she wanted me to find a place I could connect with God. Soon after settling in my room, I heard about a student ministry on campus called the Wesley. My friend Jaylon had also heard about it, so we decided to go together. They were having an Area 51 party at the time, and it was so much fun. I got to meet so many other Christians from various other fields that day. From then on, I would go to the Wesley every day with my friend Jaylon, where I proceeded to meet even more friendly faces like Chase, Akin, and Philip.
The party itself was very nice, but I think my favorite part was when we went into the chapel and started singing. I’ve always been what you might call an avid Christian. Going to church every week, singing praises to God, thanking him for everything and praying to him all the time. I’ve always felt that my connection to God was phenomenal in every way, but there’s something about singing God’s praises that just makes me feel like my connection to him grows exponentially. Ever since then, I just felt like I had to go back.
Even in the first few days there, I felt that the people that I didn’t know, I knew, just because of the connection I felt with them through God. The Well is an amazing event led by Ryan Ford. Ryan is funny; I couldn’t stop laughing the first time I went. Even through the sadder portions of the Bible there always seemed to be a bit of comicalness that popped out of nowhere. At the end of the Well, there’s this beautiful song that is sung that always makes me feel at ease, followed by “Go in peace.” Afterwards, I feel like the rest of my day will end up tranquil. But the most beautiful song (“He Knows My Name”) will leave you in tears. Any and all emotions that you were withholding will be spilled out, and you will be filled with a thankful heart and a calm soul.
The people at the Wesley are all so friendly and incredibly inclusive. There’s just no way you can feel left out there, and it was because of that energy that connecting with them was so easy. Out of all of my experiences there, I felt like I connected with the Wesley community most when I went on their Fall Retreat. That was the most fun I’ve had in a long time. The events, the scenery, the people, it was all terrific. My connection with God really grew there, as well. But I’d say my favorite part of the Wesley is the small groups.
Not too long after I joined the Wesley, I joined a small group, and I’ve got to say, Chase Lenard, Akin Bailey, and Jamie Brown are all awesome dudes. It’s thanks to them that I’ve felt that I’ve uncovered more knowledge and understanding in the Bible than I ever have. I was always left with several questions that they were always willing to answer or give their opinions on. I am thankful that I met the friendly people at the Wesley. They’ve changed my life for the better and will forever remain in my heart.
P.S. They have this event called “Laid Back Lunch” every Thursday that I think is spectacular. The food is so good and just for a dollar. I say it’s definitely worth it!
Duran is a beloved member of the Wesley currently studying Mechanical Engineering at Louisiana Tech. He enjoys skateboarding, discussing Jesus, and going on adventures with his friends.