The following student report was submitted by Ambassador League Agent Kayla M. during the 2009-2010 League.
Mission: Tactics - Final Report
From civic involvement to conservative activism, Ambassador League has been an invaluable experience. Each assignment was well worth the time invested; the relationships formed, the practical skills acquired, and the useful information learned will benefit me for the rest of my life. Not only did I learn to manage time effectively in the midst of a busy schedule, but the program also opened doors into career paths I hope to pursue.
Partnering with a mentor was a crucial first step of the program. My mentor Jay Mitchell, a family friend, guided, motivated and encouraged me throughout the year. Because of Mr. Mitchell's civic experience and knowledge of politics, he gave me helpful ideas on where to observe meetings, for whom to campaign, and when to do certain assignments. By expecting me to take the initiative on planning and fulfilling each assignment, Mr. Mitchell held me accountable and I am very grateful for his guidance as an excellent mentor.
The books I read for Ambassador League encouraged and motivated me to tackle the program. First, Do Hard Things provided an inspiring challenge to fly above the culture's low expectations and shine for Christ. Alex and Brett Harris' practical message motivated me to persevere through the "small hard things" within each assignment as preparation to accomplish larger work for God's glory and kingdom. Next, in Roaring Lambs Bob Briner applied Jesus' commands to be salt and light to the fields of literature, journalism and the arts. Roaring Lambs encouraged me to take action and provide positive alternatives to the evils in our culture instead of merely complaining about them. Also, Lifeviews by R.C. Sproul helped me understand philosophies such as pragmatism and existentialism prevalent in our culture. Sproul's comparison of these beliefs with the truth of Christianity increased my gratitude for the gifts of hope and eternal life we have through Christ. Learning where others are coming from made me more compassionate and demonstrated the truth of St. Augustine's words, "our hearts are restless until they find their rest in [God]."
A large portion of the Ambassador League program consists of one-page Bible studies on pertinent topics. Through the eleven studies I did this year, I learned what the Lord says about many foundational beliefs and current issues under debate. Studying the Lordship of Christ increased my awe of Him and emphasized the Bible's cohesive structure; every page points to Christ in some way as the One around whom creation and history revolve. Studies on justice and mercy and their practical implications made clearer the holiness of God, His commands concerning justice, and the greatness of His mercy in sending Christ to justify us in His eyes. By studying the blessings of the Ten Commandments, I saw them from a fresh perspective and came to appreciate God's goodness in commanding us so wisely. The best aspect of Ambassador League's Bible study requirement, however, is not so much the specifics I learned but the skill I acquired of studying the Word in depth. Because of this valuable practice, I am equipped for the future to delve into God's truth and learn to apply what He says to both personal and civic affairs.
Through Ambassador League I had the opportunity to observe several civic meetings, a highlight of which was a day shadowing Representative Marty Knollenberg at the Michigan State Capitol. By observing a committee meeting and legislative session as well as a city council meeting and judicial trial on the local levels, I saw the building blocks of our government system in action.
One of the most rewarding parts of Ambassador League was the assignment to take action by writing letters to the editor. Through the five letters I submitted to the Detroit News, I learned the value of participating in American affairs by letting my voice be heard. Letters to the editor presented a valuable opportunity to write on topics I am passionate about such as Christianity, homeschooling, limited government spending, health care and Hillsdale College. In the future, instead of merely getting worried and angry about current issues, I will continue to take action through the power of the pen.
The most eye-opening and beneficial assignment Ambassador League presented was the opportunity to interview local leaders. Through this mission I talked with the excellent attorney Roberta Granadier, I gained the advice of political journalist Kendall Wingrove, I met Congressmen Joseph and Marty Knollenberg, and I had a Spanish conversation with the Mexican ambassador to Michigan. The relationships formed through these interviews and the wisdom these successful leaders gave me have been invaluable. Encouraged by their examples, my interest in the fields of law, politics, journalism and diplomacy grew and I began to see potential careers in areas I had only dreamed about before. The gracious willingness of these leaders to share their experiences and advice with me was both humbling and encouraging.
Finally, the assignments to take action by volunteering in the community were enjoyable and valuable. Through involvement at a food bank, clothing closet, and soup kitchen, I was inspired to learn of the dedicated efforts believers are making to be Christ's hands and feet through non-profit organizations. By volunteering in social action organizations such as Right to Life and a Mexican-American children's literacy program, I met and formed relationships with generous people making a difference for causes they care about. I enjoyed the opportunity to promote the Student Statesmanship Institute at my youth group; it was good to give back in a small way to an organization that has blessed and influenced me so much. In addition, the political campaigning experience heightened my interest in politics, and I plan to pursue further campaign work in the future.
Looking back, I cannot think of a better way to get involved in the community, see government in action, make connections with local leaders, take personal initiative, and grow in spirit and maturity than the Ambassador League program. Over the course of this influential year, I learned to take action for God's glory instead of merely complaining about current issues. Ambassador League pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and accomplish hard things for the glory of God. I am very grateful to my mentor Mr. Mitchell for his guidance and support, and I thank the Student Statesmanship Institute for this excellent program. God has created us for this time and this place to accomplish His kingdom-building purposes on earth, and Ambassador League has helped equip me to join His work.
