If I were to choose one book for everyone in the world to read, it would undoubtedly be the Bible. The Bible, consisting of the Old and New Testaments, is a remarkable and influential work that has transcended centuries, cultures, and beliefs. The Bible is a treasure trove of historical knowledge, containing accounts of ancient civilizations. Its historical accuracy has been confirmed by numerous archaeological discoveries, making it an invaluable resource for understanding our shared human history. Furthermore, the Bible played a pivotal role in shaping the history of Western civilization. Its teachings influenced the development of political, legal, and ethical systems, contributing to the formation of modern democratic societies. One of the most compelling reasons to have everyone read the Bible is its moral and ethical teachings. The Bible offers a moral compass for individuals and societies, emphasizing virtues such as love, compassion, forgiveness, and justice. These principles are not limited to any specific religious group but offer guidance to all who seek to lead a virtuous life. The Bible's influence on literature and art is undeniable. It has inspired countless authors, poets, painters, and musicians throughout history. Works of art like Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling and literary masterpieces like John Milton's "Paradise Lost" draw from the Bible's profound narrative. In conclusion, if I could have everyone in the world read just one book, it would be the Bible. Its historical significance, cultural diversity, moral and ethical guidance, and literary influence make it a universally valuable and enriching work.

As the vibrant hues of autumn foliage paint the landscape and a gentle chill creeps into the air, my senses are instantly awakened with a rush of nostalgia. There is a certain fall-inspired drink from Starbucks that holds a special place in my heart, intertwining itself with the very essence of the season – the legendary Pumpkin Spice Latte. This iconic concoction has seamlessly woven itself into my personal fall narrative, evoking memories, comfort, and a sense of continuity. Having previously worked at Starbucks, I was not just a casual observer of the fall beverage lineup – I was an eager participant, crafting each Pumpkin Spice Latte with care, precision, and a sprinkle of enchantment. The symphony of aromas that danced through the café as espresso met pumpkin-flavored syrup and warm, frothy milk was like a prelude to the vibrant fall festivities that awaited outside. But it was not until I truly embraced the customer perspective that the Pumpkin Spice Latte became a character in my own fall narrative. The journey of this beloved drink starts with the very first sip, where the familiar flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove unite in a harmonious blend that feels like a cozy embrace. Each year, as I take that first sip, I am transported back to the brisk afternoons spent with friends, crunching through fallen leaves, and the captivating aroma that permeated my Starbucks store. The Pumpkin Spice Latte has effortlessly entwined itself with the sights, sounds, and textures of fall, acting as a gateway to cherished memories. Beyond its sensory allure, the Pumpkin Spice Latte has become a marker of time, bridging the gap between autumns past and present. With each passing year, this seasonal treat heralds the arrival of fall, much like the first leaves that flutter to the ground. It has become a constant companion, reminding me that despite life's changes, there are certain things that remain steadfast and reliable. Just as the leaves transform, so too does the familiar cup, adorned with its iconic pumpkin emblem, reminding me of the cyclical nature of life itself. However, it is not just the drink itself that has made its mark; it is the stories and connections it has facilitated. The Pumpkin Spice Latte has acted as a catalyst for conversations, bonding moments, and shared experiences. Whether enjoyed with old friends, new acquaintances, or even a solitary moment of reflection, the drink has the power to forge connections and create lasting memories. The Pumpkin Spice Latte has, in a way, become a storyteller, narrating tales of friendships rekindled and moments of blissful solitude embraced. In conclusion, the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte is more than just a seasonal beverage – it is an integral part of my fall narrative. With its sensory delights, continuity through the years, and ability to foster connections, it has grown beyond being a mere drink to being a character in the story of my autumns. Having worked behind the counter and served countless cups of this enchanting elixir, I am now on the other side, savoring the memories it has woven into my own fall tale. As the seasons change and the aroma of spices fills the air, the Pumpkin Spice Latte remains a steadfast companion, reminding me that some things, like the joy of fall, never truly fade away.

The Harmonious Lens: How Music Shaped My Worldview From a young age of 8, music became an inseparable part of my life. I still vividly remember the day when I first laid my hands on the piano keys, feeling the smooth touch of ivory beneath my fingers. Little did I know then that this encounter would mark the beginning of a transformative journey, one that would not only fill my days with delightful melodies but also shape the way I perceive and interpret the world around me. As I delved into the world of music, I quickly fell in love with its enchanting allure. The beauty and artistry woven into each note and rhythm captivated my heart. Music had a unique way of expressing emotions, transcending language barriers, and touching the depths of the soul. Through playing the piano and later exploring other instruments like the guitar, I learned to appreciate the immense power of music to evoke feelings of joy, sorrow, excitement, and tranquility. It taught me that emotions could be expressed in countless ways, and that artistic expression had an uncanny ability to connect people on a profound level. Beyond the emotional aspect, music unveiled the secrets of mathematics and orderliness to me. As I practiced scales and arpeggios on the piano, I became aware of the intricate patterns and symmetrical structures that underpinned musical compositions. Music, with its precise divisions of beats and harmonious intervals, was a manifestation of mathematical principles that created coherence and balance. This revelation not only enriched my understanding of music but also cultivated a deeper appreciation for the harmony and order that permeated the universe. In my journey through music, I couldn't help but marvel at the complexity and beauty that it entailed. The interconnectedness of musical elements, the interplay of melodies and harmonies, and the vast array of instruments all pointed to a higher intelligence behind this art form. It was as if music itself was evidence of a divine Creator, for something as intricate and captivating as music could not have arisen spontaneously. Music, in its awe-inspiring glory, strengthened my belief in a higher power and affirmed the existence of something beyond the material world. Moreover, music has served as a comforting refuge during difficult times. Whenever life presented challenges, music was my sanctuary. The act of creating melodies on the piano or strumming chords on the guitar provided solace and brought a sense of peace to my soul. It taught me that even amidst chaos and turmoil, there was always a melody waiting to be discovered, a reminder that beauty and hope persist even in the darkest moments. In conclusion, music has not merely been a form of entertainment or a hobby in my life. It has shaped the way I view the world by revealing its beauty, artistry, mathematical foundations, and inherent order. It has awakened in me a profound sense of wonder and appreciation for the divine intelligence that must have woven music into the fabric of creation. Music has served as a refuge during challenging times and has imparted valuable life lessons about discipline, perseverance, and collaboration. As I continue to grow and explore the world through the lens of music, I am reminded of the power of this art form to unite people, evoke emotions, and provide glimpses of the transcendent. The lessons and insights gained through music will forever resonate in my heart, influencing the way I perceive and interact with the world, and ultimately shaping the person I aspire to become.

A servant of God, decicated to glorifying Him and serving the body of Christ wherever needed.

Overcoming Adversity: Embracing Resilience in Pursuit of a Pharmacy Career Life's journey is often fraught with unexpected challenges and obstacles that test our strength and resolve. One such significant challenge that I faced in my life was during my undergraduate years, where I encountered a series of personal and academic difficulties that threatened to derail my dreams of pursuing a career in pharmacy. However, through unwavering determination, resilience, and personal growth, I not only overcame these obstacles but emerged stronger, more determined, and focused on achieving my goals in the pharmacy field. Early in life, I faced personal hardships that demanded a great deal of emotional strength. My family went through a financial crisis, which put immense pressure on my academic pursuits. Balancing work, studies, and providing support to my family took a toll on my mental well-being, leaving me feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. At times, it seemed impossible to focus on my education when the world around me was in turmoil. Doubts crept in, and I questioned whether I had the resilience to overcome these challenges. Amidst these adversities, I realized the importance of seeking support from those around me. I confided in my professors, seeking guidance and understanding, and I found solace in my close friends who were always ready to lend a listening ear. Their unwavering support and encouragement became pillars of strength that propelled me forward during the toughest times. Academically, I faced hurdles that tested my dedication to a career in pharmacy. The demanding coursework proved to be challenging, and I often found myself struggling to keep up with the fast-paced curriculum. It was discouraging to see my grades slipping, but rather than succumbing to defeat, I sought academic assistance and engaged in study groups with my peers. This collaborative approach not only enhanced my understanding of the subject matter but also fostered a sense of community and mutual support, which ultimately contributed to an improvement in my academic performance. Through perseverance and consistent hard work, I began to witness the transformation within myself. My determination to succeed in the pharmacy field grew stronger, and I developed a deeper appreciation for the value of education as a means to overcome adversity. I embraced the setbacks as learning opportunities and shifted my focus from merely achieving good grades to gaining a profound understanding of the subjects. This shift in perspective not only enriched my learning experience but also nurtured a genuine passion for the field of pharmacy. As I continued on my journey, I discovered that the challenges I faced were not hindrances but stepping stones to personal growth and resilience. The setbacks and hardships I encountered became integral to shaping my character and influencing my career aspirations. The adversity I faced fueled my desire to help others, especially those facing health challenges, and it was evident that a career in pharmacy aligned perfectly with my aspirations. In conclusion, the significant challenge I faced during my undergraduate years served as a defining moment in my life, teaching me valuable life lessons about resilience, perseverance, and the importance of seeking support. It strengthened my commitment to a career in pharmacy, where I can utilize my experiences to empathize with patients and provide them with the best possible care. I am now more equipped than ever to face the challenges that lie ahead, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to contribute to the field of pharmacy and positively impact the lives of others through my determination and passion for making a difference.

When I pass someone on the street, I wave and receive no response. When I walk through school, I smile at my schoolmates, and they continue to stare at their phones silently. When I hand out coffee at work, I offer a warm farewell to each customer, who drives away hurriedly. Individuals in our day are untrusting, unwelcoming, cold, pessimistic, and formal. Most of us live in our own little world, ignorant and apathetic about other’s lives and struggles. Through every interaction, every job, every errand; I hope to encourage and inspire my community to grow more aware and attentive of the people around them. I began working at a fast-food restaurant a few years ago, during the pandemic. We kept our dining room closed for several months, so I only experienced customer service through the drive-through. As a result, when we opened back up inside, I was entirely unprepared. I struggled to pay attention when guests walked in the doors, and constantly forgot to greet them. Every time a customer approached me with a question or issue, I was surprised and flustered. But, determined to improve, I slowly gained attentiveness and awareness, demonstrating genuine care for each guest and their needs. As the keyboardist on our church worship team, I am on stage every Sunday, and usually stay in the green room with the rest of the band between services. Throughout the last year, however, my Worship Director has been encouraging the team to leave the green room and interact with the congregation. At first, I struggled to socialize, feeling awkward whenever I stood in the foyer to greet churchgoers. Then I grew to realize that even a little nod, smile, or handshake, could be invaluable to someone going through a rough season of life. In addition, my role as a volunteer band member is not as much about playing music as it is about changing lives. If I can brighten someone’s day by taking the time to greet or speak to them, I should take every advantage of that opportunity. Our society desperately needs compassion, empathy, and awareness. We need to see the world through the eyes of those around us, not just our own. We need to make a point to consider what someone else is going through when they interact with us. We need to express genuine interest and care, abandoning apathy and selfishness. I seize every opportunity I get to take the lead in accomplishing this.

I stared at our church music director in disbelief. “I can’t lead yet,” I replied to his unexpected proposal. “I’m too young.” Despite how hesitant I was to step into a leadership role at the time, I am thankful that my love for the ministry and my determination to grow pushed me into it. Throughout my childhood, I dreamt of entering ministry and serving God through my abilities. After our Worship and Youth Pastor left the church suddenly, the worship ministry fell into the hands of a loyal band member. The youth ministry was entrusted to a few brand-new youth leaders. And the youth worship ministry was handed to a fourteen-year-old girl who had never led a team before. Groups of people made me nervous, especially when their eyes were on me. So, every time our small youth band composed of three high schoolers and just two adults turned to listen to me talk, I stuttered and blushed. And when it came time to send out weekly scheduling emails to the group, I proofread my messages half-a-dozen times, worried that any overlooked mistake would embarrass me. Our youth ministry is constantly growing, reaching the young people of our city and emboldening them to make a difference. As a result, I have taken on more and more responsibilities since I first stepped into the role of youth worship leader. Yet even with a few years of experience behind me, I still grow flustered and anxious every time I speak to the group. Worship leadership has long been my intended career, but my fears have caused me to doubt whether I will ever be confident in leadership. After youth one evening, I stayed late, as usual, to power off all the equipment in the auditorium. I flipped breakers and unplugged cords, darting from the sound booth to the electrical room and back again. Halfway through the process, I stopped. I stood alone in the middle of the four-hundred-seat auditorium and looked around slowly. Rows of spotlights perched above the stage peered down at me. Expensive, high-tech instruments and gear crowned the platform I regularly stood on. Hundreds of seats lined the room, ready to be filled by students. Students who it was my job to serve. It is all too cliché to point out that responsibility comes with privilege. But as I become aware of how privileged I am, the tasks before me seem trivial. I am entrusted with leading production for a youth service in a church averaging almost a thousand attendees weekly. For me, shutting off equipment is a small ask. Arriving early and staying late is hardly a ‘sacrifice.’ And pushing my limits, coming out of my shell, to lead a small team of people, all of whom I know and trust, is the least I can do for this ministry. All I ask from them in return is patience for me as I grow as a leader, preparing to lead for the rest of my life.

Music notation is a dying art. Fewer and fewer children are being taught to read music, and musical illiteracy is widespread. Decades ago, every child was taught the basics of music theory, as well as how to read sheet music. Today, the ability to read music is a rarity. One of the reasons behind this is the fact that technology has digitized things that formerly utilized paper. Books are read online using tablets, for example, and budgeting apps have replaced checkbooks. Many musicians, especially traveling musicians, now use digital copies of sheet music rather than physical copies. Sheet music has become unnecessary to many band members and touring artists. This phenomenon could have been devastating to traditional music if it weren't for music notation software like Finale. Music notation software provides an efficient and easy way to create digital copies of sheet music. Musicians can digitize their scores by entering them into the application. While paper copies could be destroyed, damaged or lost, digital copies can be preserved safely in the cloud. In addition, writers can avoid using paper completely by composing using a program. Limiting the amount of paper used will preserve trees and protect the environment. Music notation software is a breakthrough for those who want to keep traditional music alive while keeping up with the trends of today. It makes writing effortless and fast and safely stores the music digitally. Furthermore, it helps the earth by limiting the paper used for music composition. In these ways, music notation software is playing a significant role in making the world a better place.

I stared at our church music director in disbelief. “I can’t lead yet,” I replied to his unexpected proposal. “I’m too young.” Despite how hesitant I was to step into a leadership role at the time, I am thankful that my love for the ministry and my determination to grow pushed me into it. Throughout my childhood, I dreamt of entering the ministry and serving God through my abilities. After our Worship and Youth Pastor left the church suddenly, the worship ministry fell into the hands of a loyal band member. The youth ministry was entrusted to a few brand-new youth leaders. And the youth worship ministry was handed to a fourteen-year-old girl who had never led a team before. Groups of people made me nervous, especially when their eyes were on me. So, every time our small youth band composed of three high schoolers and just two adults turned to listen to me talk, I stuttered and blushed. And when it came time to send out weekly scheduling emails to the group, I proofread my messages half-a-dozen times, worried that any overlooked mistake would embarrass me. Our youth ministry is constantly growing, reaching the young people of our city and emboldening them to make a difference. As a result, I have taken on more and more responsibilities since I first stepped into the role of youth worship leader. Yet even with a few years of experience behind me, I still grow flustered and anxious every time I speak to the group. Worship leadership has long been my intended career, but my fears have caused me to doubt whether I will ever be confident in leadership. After youth one evening, I stayed late to power off all the equipment in the auditorium, as I did every week. I flipped breakers and unplugged cords, darting from the sound booth to the electrical room and back again. Halfway through the process, I stopped. I stood alone in the middle of the four-hundred-seat auditorium and looked around slowly. Rows of spotlights perched above the stage peered down at me. Expensive, high-tech instruments and gear crowned the platform I regularly stood on. Hundreds of seats lined the room, ready to be filled by students. Students who it was my job to serve. It is all too cliché to point out that responsibility comes with privilege. But as I become aware of how privileged I am, the tasks before me seem trivial. I am entrusted with leading production for a youth service in a church averaging almost a thousand attendees weekly. For me, shutting off equipment is a small ask. Arriving early and staying late is hardly a ‘sacrifice.’ And pushing my limits, coming out of my shell, to lead a small team of people, all of whom I know and trust, is the least I can do for this ministry. All I ask from them in return is patience for me as I grow as a leader, preparing to lead for the rest of my life.

Selfless Love - Abbie Holman Of the two Frozen sisters, Elsa is always better known. Her magical ice powers are enchanting to young minds, and her royal aura is breathtaking. But it is Anna's kindness and selflessness that saves Elsa, thaws Arendelle, and resolves the conflict. Though she often stands in the shadow of her sister, she stands out to me. Therefore, she is my favorite Disney character. From the very first time I watched Frozen, I felt for Anna when she and Elsa were separated. As the oldest of seven siblings, I have always had responsibility to watch my brothers and sisters, earning me the nickname "second mama." Because of this, I am very close to them. I dread the thought of anything coming in between us. While most Frozen watchers tend to first notice Elsa's isolation, I noticed Anna's. She craves her older sister's affection and company throughout her childhood, having not only a playmate but a best friend stolen from her. In addition, Anna's personality is youthful and naive, qualities I can relate to entirely. She falls in love with a man after a few hours' worth of conversation, ignorant of the fact that he is really a power-thirsty crook. Likewise, I tend to be overly trusting of people innocently, without considering how well I truly know them. I am a poor judge of character, and tend to assume the best, overlooking hazardous characteristics. Lastly, Anna acts out of love, willing to give up her own life for her sister. This is the most beautiful and refreshing quality of all: self-sacrifice. In contrast with Hans, who would sacrifice both his lover and her sister for his own power, Anna saves her sister at the risk of freezing to solid ice. To me, this is the most notable act in the movie, and I aspire to live my life with the same love and selflessness. Anna is not only my favorite Disney character, but an inspiration, role model, and hero.

Poultry Love - Abbie Holman The sauce with savory, scrumptious scents Drips from the platter's side The tender crunch of coating crisp Like true love satisfies And yet, enclosed within the bun, Beneath breading so divine, The tender bite which, bound to thrill Midst juices vowing to fulfill - The heavenly chicken breast - is still The dearest love of mine. Should diners with their seafood fresh Entice my appetite Should joints with roasted steaks of beef Attempt to seize delight Regardless yet of tempting tastes My loyalty holds true I always will obsessed remain My poultry love, the facts are plain This craving I need not explain My dearest love is you.

Natural Beauty - Abbie Holman I have always been an outdoor kid. When I was young, I played in the woods regularly with my siblings. We splashed in the creek, built forts, and participated in leaf-boat races. As I grew, I expressed my love for nature in different ways. I kept a garden for several years, learning to work with nature rather than exploit it. Now, as a high schooler working two jobs and taking college courses, I have little time for gardening or exploration in nature. But I still interact with nature through art and photography, and there are few things more naturally beautiful to me than flowers. Most of the pictures I take of flowers feature plants I found in nature, rather than bouquets I bought at a store. I am fond of constructing my own arrangements by taking long walks through fields and forests to collect a vast array of subjects. One such adventure resulted in the sunny bouquet I captured laid out on a table. Occasionally I grow my own flowers for pictures, as is the case with the golden sunflowers in the vase. Every vacation I take, I bring my camera with me. Several years ago, my family rented a cabin at the base of the Teton mountain range in Wyoming. While there, we went on a hike through the mountains. I made the most of that trip into an unfamiliar ecosystem, snapping pictures of flowers in their natural state. This expedition yielded one of my personal favorites, which hangs on my wall: the blossoming mountain-laurel cluster. Photography offers me an opportunity to cherish the beauty in nature from my bedroom as I study. Whether it be the river in Tennessee that rushes overtop my bed, or the sunlight reflecting off a pond near my desk, natural beauty is all around me, even indoors. And the flowers I have encountered outside cover my walls, captured just how they appeared in nature.

As a worship musician, I encounter meaningful songs on a regular basis. Often after playing a song repeatedly for rehearsal and multiple church services, the song loses its beauty to me. It becomes boring and banal because I've heard it too many times. But there is one song I can play a thousand times and never lose my awe for it - never cease to develop goosebumps as the verses build majestically. That song is "Christ Be Magnified," by Cody Carnes. The verses of the song are poetic and elegant, expressing articulately and concisely the worship offered to God through nature. Descriptive words paint a glorious picture of praise throughout creation. Through the lyrics, the listener is drawn to imagine the earth pouring out adoration. Most importantly, the verses convey the purpose behind every individual and every creature in nature - to glorify its Creator. In the bridge, the song shifts to focus on the individual's spiritual journey. The singer resolves in a declaration to stand firm in the faith and endure whatever is necessary to glorify God. The last few lines claim the promises of God in faith, counting on eternal life. Lastly, the chorus briefly but powerfully expresses the message conveyed through the song - that Christ would be magnified through the life of His follower. Each line of the song points towards this purpose. Above every other thing, every other goal, the most important good we can bring about is to glorify the name of Jesus Christ, and "Christ Be Magnified" conveys this truth both artistically and accurately.

When I pass someone on the street, I wave and receive no response. When I walk through school, I smile at my schoolmates, and they continue to stare at their phones silently. When I hand out coffee at work, I offer a warm farewell to each customer, who drives away hurriedly. Individuals in our day are untrusting, unwelcoming, cold, pessimistic, and formal. Most of us live in our own little world, ignorant and apathetic about other’s lives and struggles. Through every interaction, every job, every errand; I hope to encourage and inspire my community to grow more aware and attentive of the people around them. I began working at a fast-food restaurant a few years ago, during the pandemic. We kept our dining room closed for several months, so I only experienced customer service through the drive-through. As a result, when we opened back up inside, I was entirely unprepared. I struggled to pay attention when guests walked in the doors, and constantly forgot to greet them. Every time a customer approached me with a question or issue, I was surprised and flustered. But, determined to improve, I slowly gained attentiveness and awareness, demonstrating genuine care for each guest and their needs. As the keyboardist on our church worship team, I am on stage every Sunday, and usually stay in the green room with the rest of the band between services. Throughout the last year, however, my Worship Director has been encouraging the team to leave the green room and interact with the congregation. At first, I struggled to socialize, feeling awkward whenever I stood in the foyer to greet churchgoers. Then I grew to realize that even a little nod, smile, or handshake, could be invaluable to someone going through a rough season of life. In addition, my role as a volunteer band member is not as much about playing music as it is about changing lives. If I can brighten someone’s day by taking the time to greet or speak to them, I should take every advantage of that opportunity. Our society desperately needs compassion, empathy, and awareness. We need to see the world through the eyes of those around us, not just our own. We need to make a point to consider what someone else is going through when they interact with us. We need to express genuine interest and care, abandoning apathy and selfishness. I seize every opportunity I get to take the lead in accomplishing this.