If you've ever come into the church office throughout the week, you've likely been greeted by one of the biggest smiles you've ever seen. Tricia is one of the administrative assistants in the office, and has been on staff for 22 years! As an encouragement to her and to celebrate who she is and what she does, here are five things I appreciate about Tricia.

1. She is kind. Like, really kind. I'm reminded regularly that she approaches everything, even on a bad day, with kindness. I've heard her described as "sweet-tempered," and I've seen firsthand how she navigates really difficult situations with grace and treats others the way she would want to be treated.

2. She cares. She has a genuine concern for other people, and for making sure that things are done with care and responsibility. She cares about what is going on in the lives of people, and she cares that things are done with excellence. The other day she stopped what she was doing to ask me how things were going in my life, and asked follow-up questions because she really wanted to know. She cares about everyone she comes into contact with, and she shows how she cares about every task and word.

3. She allows God to guide her. I have had the honor to have several conversations with Tricia that were about how she was trusting God with something. It is an amazing reminder that someone I come into such close contact with is praying and wanting God to guide her. She prays for The Ridge, she prays for me (she's told me so), and she prays for God's will to be done. Even in the tough stuff, she relies on God. I find it inspiring.

4. She is humble. I am confident that she will not love the attention something like this blog brings, even though she is deserving. Tricia is a great example of being truly humble. She doesn't think poorly of herself and her work, rather she is content with pointing people to Jesus and supporting the ministry of The Ridge without drawing attention to herself.

5. She is hilarious. While it might not be obvious if you haven't interacted with her, she has a great sense of humor. One of my favorite staff interactions includes seeing her make a joke and the other staff member looking at her with surprise.  

I have had the honor of Tricia directly supporting me in my role, and also seeing her support others. She is a valuable part of our team, and I am grateful for her and her longevity. Even though she prefers to be behind the scenes, will you join me in letting Tricia know how much you appreciate her, and how who she is and what she does matters?

Whatever it takes,
Adam