When I was three years old, I learned how to read. At four years old, I read small chapter books. By the time I was seven years old, I was reading graphic novels. At ten years old, I read the “Harry Potter” series, and the next year I read “The Hunger Games.” Now, at 12 years old (almost 13), I’m reading the “Percy Jackson” series.

Reading has always been a big part of my life, and I’ve loved it since I was little. I read while I eat breakfast, before class, in the car and before bed. That’s why I want to be an author after I graduate. I really love writing – just having some random creative idea and putting it down on paper for other readers to enjoy. I’m in Writing Club after school, and I’m currently writing around five to seven books and have finished a couple.

I was homeschooled up until sixth grade, or last year, when I started public school, and I am so grateful for that. If I hadn’t started attending public school, I never would have met my best friend, Rosetta, who has been there for me ever since the second day of school last year. I wouldn’t have had any of these amazing opportunities, like this one, either. But there are some challenges, as one would expect, being a Lutheran teen at a public school.

I always try my best to “let my light shine” in many kinds of ways, whether that is being kind to others, not swearing, etc. But sometimes that can get hard, like when I’m surrounded by kids who swear, yell at teachers and make up weird “brainrot” slang that makes no sense. I definitely don’t “fit in” compared to most of the other kids.

But, really, I don’t want to “fit in,” not if that means cursing every chance I get or slathering myself in makeup. I love being the “weird” girl, the one who has a few close friends but doesn’t travel in a pack or anything. The one who says “Hi” to the new kids instead of gawking at them, the one who talks to myself sometimes or randomly starts speaking in a British accent because, well, why not?

I love being the one who prefers reading, music and nature compared to screens and makeup.

Anyway, I’m just so grateful that the Lord decided to send all of these wonderful people my way – a family that I wouldn’t be who I am without, who understand my nonsense and weirdness and teachers who care.

Most of all, I’m grateful for this life that is full of love. Jesus loves you!

“The Lord is my rock. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken.” – Psalm 16:8

Loralei Gilner

Seventh grade at the Escanaba Jr/Sr High School.