sophie mcdonald

In Sophie McDonald’s early years, loneliness was no stranger to her. At times, it seemed like faithfulness was the most foreign. When the hopes of a deep friendship were shallow, Sophie leaned on her family for support. Especially the steady bond that was forged from an early age with her older sister, Grace.

The fundamentals of unity and persistence that their family is built upon largely influences how Sophie approaches her relationships with others today. They’re a dependable bunch. Whenever the family endures issues that seem far too daunting to take on themselves, their first instinct has always been to lean on their faith in the Lord.

Sophie largely saw these qualities reflected in her parent’s marriage. During the more difficult moments of her childhood, she persevered just like her parents did during the various obstacles they faced. With this inclination, Sophie’s parents also prayed ceaselessly that their daughter would one day walk in the blessing that having worthwhile friendship brings.

During a season of waiting, her peace was found in the idea that those who truly care for her will make time to prioritize a relationship with her. Looking back, she sees God’s protection in this, as well as the important role that her family played during that particular difficult season.

“When I love people, I love them deeply,” Sophie said. “I think that stems from my family too. Because I grew up in such a close family. We’re all very loyal to each other, and I grew up in an environment where we stick together. I come from a very united family. If one of us is hurting, we all are. If one of us is facing something, we’re all facing it with them.”

sophie & her sister, grace

More recently, Sophie displays this type of care in her position as a community group leader in her residential hall. She now looks forward to furthering her leadership skills next semester by being a resident assistant.

“Being a CGL, I’ve seen how great a leadership role is and how much of a blessing it is to get to serve others,” she said. “And in turn, they bless you.”

Sophie has grown more in the past year and a half than she has in her entire life. God has opened many doors that she never even thought to ask for, invoking a deep sense of gratitude and newness within her. These blessings have formed who she is and who she wishes to become.

“I’ve been truly enjoying life and soaking it up for all that it is,” Sophie said. “Even the hard things. I’ve just been really trying to grow and use these four years that I’ll never have back.”

Thus far in her college experience, Sophie has experienced long-awaited, refreshing companionship with those who have different backgrounds, yet like-minded pursuits in life.

“In those tears that I shed when I was young, with my parents and I praying that the day would come; it has,” Sophie said. “It might’ve not been my time then. But the people who are in my life now are here for a reason and are of importance. God was teaching and growing me through that, and I feel like that shaped me into the person I am today.”

sophie & her friends

In addition to being passionate about her friends and various leadership positions, Sophie has also invested in her love of music.

Growing up in a music-oriented family, she developed a great appreciation for it. Playing guitar and singing has proven to be one of the activities she pursues solely out of enjoyment, rather than having any career-oriented ties. Whenever Sophie feels overwhelmed, she turns to song to help clear her mind.

In this season of life, singing has manifested itself through a vocal-focused music minor to accompany Sophie's pursuit in studying psychology at Liberty University.

“Music is a good way to express emotion,” Sophie said. “It’s something I pride myself in because I’m working hard towards it. I don’t consider myself to be the best singer, but I put in effort, and I thoroughly enjoy it. It’s something I really want to get better at.”

As someone who has experienced the fruit of Sophie’s strength and obedience entering into my college years, it’s her undeniable humility and thankfulness that has proven to be a solid reminder of what it means to endure well. God blesses those who serve Him faithfully, and she is a joyful example of what it looks like to keep Him at the center of one's desires in life.

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Afterthoughts:

As I am writing this brief follow-up, Sophie's feature will come out tomorrow. This interview was conducted one month ago to this day, and re-reading it after all that time has struck me that these sentiments ring truer than ever before. Last night concluded this year's community group meetings on Wednesday nights, and we sadly had to say goodbye to Sophie's season as a CGL as she moves on to an RA position next semester. But, as I assume the position as CGL and have the immense privilege to lead alongside Sophie next year, words simply cannot express how excited I am to work with one of the humblest leaders I have ever known. She has been such an example to me. Seeing her foster meaningful relationships and grow in her purpose in Christ brings me utmost joy!

I love it when God has things in store that you never even thought to imagine for yourself...

right, Sophie?! ;-)

All love,

-K

sophie & leeah

sophie & mia