Differences Between Freedom and Free Will

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Very commonly, people assume that "freedom" means being able to do whatever one wants. Being free means much more than this. "Real freedom comes from recognizing the truth and choosing to live in it." In John 14:6, Christ says, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." We must realize that there is an objective truth: "a reality that we cannot change, separated from what we think or feel about it." Morality is not subjective. Christopher West says, "God created us to choose between good and evil, not to determine what they are."

Being a Catholic at a Secular College - Part Two

Jeanne d'Arc au Siège d'Orléans by Jules Eugène Lenepveu

Being Catholic in a secular college is difficult because people have different ideas and understandings (often misunderstandings) about what the Church believes and teaches. Part of my goal is to show others what the Church actually believes, and to give them an accurate understanding of Catholics and Catholicism. Underneath that, I am a person with dreams, just like anybody else.

Being a Catholic at a Secular College - Part One

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My last two years of high school were spent at a private, Catholic school. I was raised in public school my whole life until that point. It was a major shock for me at first, but that change from sophomore to junior year literally changed my life. I know what it is like to be surrounded by those who have the same beliefs as me, and also conversing with those who disagree with what I may believe. I was planning to go straight to a Catholic college, Benedictine College in Atchison, KS, but due to financial constraints, I chose Washburn University and I am immensely happy with my choice. I have the wholesome opportunity to share what I believe with others. Though my experience is rewarding, it is far from easy.

Understanding Modesty

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In today's society, "modesty" is not a term that commonly reaches our ears. Many people may not realize that modesty doesn't just include what you wear; it also includes how a person acts. It is a quality that both men and women can live out.

Chastity - A "Yes" to Love

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Many people associate the word "no" with chastity, and view the word in a negative way. Chastity is different than abstinence. They do not mean the same things. Abstinence is "the act or practice of refraining from indulging an appetite or desire, especially for alcoholic drink or sexual intercourse." Chastity, on the other hand, is "the virtue that directs all our sexual desires, emotions, and attractions toward the dignity of the person and the real meaning of love. It falls under the cardinal virtue of temperance." 

A Second Chance at Love - Healing

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Dennison

"What do I do when I've lost my way?" "Is it possible for me to start over?" "How do I forgive myself?" 

These are just a few of the many questions that people have asked me when trying to move on from the past. I have had many requests for this blog post, and I think its contents are very important to address. I have seen many people broken from past relationships, and I would always ask myself, "What can I do to help them?"