Real Stories
Aaron Strauch, 23, sells real estate advertising for a regional media organization and enjoys some freelance writing. He shares his story.
For some of us living in Chicago, a typical day includes: a Café Verona or Sumatra blend from Starbucks; a $2.00 swipe on a CTA card to board the elevated train; songs from an mp3 player struggling to overcome the static of traffic; blank stares from passers-by; noise; confusion; isolation; loneliness; and, wind.
Thankfully, for those of us searching for ' true love' in the Windy City, there is also Fusion.
Fusion has been an amazing gift from God during the greatest period of change in my life.
The transition from life in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, to Chicago, Illinois, has not been an easy one, but I have gotten through it with help from friends, family, and the real, diverse community that is Fusion. Most importantly, I have had God's help, and one way He shows His love and incredible devotion is through this amazing group of people.
The seed of Christian faith was planted years ago in me while living in North Carolina. Like many, there was a period where I walked away from God and fertilized that seed with different things - some good, some bad. With the help of Fusion, that seed has grown into a flowering tree, and I can feel the roots growing deeper every day. While the conditions may not have been perfect many years ago, the soil and nutrition is now different. The water and fertilizer comes from different places: from the experiences and viewpoints of Fusion's incredibly diverse group of people who are united in our quest to know God better; from Sunday worship where we lift our voices in song to glorify our God; from being able to rely on members of Fusion in times of need; and, from the real sense of family that Fusion provides in this city.
While the harsh winds of Chicago sometimes shake the branches of faith, the water and nourishment that Fusion provides helps strengthen the roots more and more every day. God is real and He moves very powerfully within this family.
On some of my toughest and most hectic days, it's such a comfort to know that there is support that I can contact - fellow believers struggling with some of the same issues and concerns and looking to God for the answers.
Fact File:
What do you like about Chicago? There's always something to do. I love the lake, the view and the scenery!
His favorites include:
Food: Anything with blue cheese in it.
Color: Blue
Restaurant/Coffee House: Caliterra and Chipotle
CD: Peter Gabriel or The Police
Movie: A Christmas Story
Latest book: Boy meets Girl by Joshua Harris
Interests Comedy, Writing, Writing and Writing!
Read more stories!
Adam Gerdel, says at Fusion he is building relationships that will last a lifetime.
Aaron Strauch, 23, says Fusion is the most amazing gift of God ... a family where God is real and moving powerfully.