An Emmanuel Story:Lauren Puchala - I am good enough

I love animals, especially ones I can play with. I have two cats and a guinea pig, and I love them like family. I have been going to Emmanuel Lutheran Church since I was a baby. I still remember one of the first times we went to the family retreat. Retreat always falls on Jim’s (Cooper) and my birthday week. We celebrate together and I have gotten much closer to the church family through those family retreats.

When I was younger, I didn’t really know the meaning of faith and church, but now that I am older, I do. Recently, I have been struggling with anxiety, starting high school has been a big contributing factor to that. Listening to sermons every Sunday has helped me a great deal. Everyone at church is kind and caring and whenever I need anything they are there. That means a lot to me. I used to get bullied which was and is a main factor in my anxiety. I have self-esteem problems, and I never feel like I am good enough. It is difficult to stand up for myself or to cancel those (bullying) people out. They used to get in my head which really messed with me. Going to church every Sunday and hearing everyone give me compliments such as, “oh you look so pretty today!” reminds me that most people don’t notice your differences. Only the insecure people will point out whatever they perceive as different. I appreciate the people in my ministry because they always lift me up when I am feeling down. Everyone is caring and accepting, reminding me that I don’t have to be ashamed of who I am. God made me how I am for a reason, and people in my ministry have helped me realize that.

I hope that the next generation to call this church their home will love this church just as much as I do. I don’t know where I would be without my church family, and I hope this ministry will help other people realize that they are good enough, no matter what anyone says.

The people who really love you, will always be there for you and will always lift you up.