By Lauren Littleton
l-littleton.1@onu.ed
On March 18, Jeannie Blevins, hostess for Sodexho at Ohio Northern University took the stage for Faith Lift. Blevins spoke of her Midwest upbringing and her found love and respect for Jesus.  
Through her life, Blevins held strong family ties and though her family did not have much money, they shared many values and a lot of love. Blevins said everyone treated each other with respect and kindness.
Blevins also said her family was raised on the Golden rule, treat others the way you would want them to treat you.
“Respect and kindness, along with love were the first building blocks given to me by my parents,” said Blevins.  
Blevins also feels a strong hold to her faith.      
Blevins said: “I was so in awe of the unconditional love of Jesus that was shown that day on the cross. He has been a constant companion since that day. My faith has given me strength and comfort, through the good days and the bad. Even in the dark day two years ago when my mother finally lost her four-year battle with cancer. I can continue to be happy and smile because I know that I will see her again. There is a saying that I have come to live by: Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass...it’s about learning to dance in the rain.”
Ohio Northern University is Blevins final building block in her life and faith.  Blevins has been working at ONU for 27 years, beginning in the bookstore and moving to dining services.  
“Every day of those 27 years has been a learning experience that has helped me to grow as a person who shares this planet with a lot of amazing, interesting and diverse people,” Blevins said.
Another belief that plays a major role in Blevins’ life is an attitude of gratitude.  
“If you put out positive energy, you’ll get positive energy in return,” Blevins said.  
Blevins said that she wants her thoughts to bless and serve the Earth and it’s inhabitants. She begins every day with a prayer of hanks and she “thanks God for being able to get out of bed, for having a job to go to and for being so blessed.”
Blevins concluded: “I have been blessed with many friends and acquaintances beacuse of my time at ONU.  Whether through work, taking classes with my fellow students, or meeting at functions on campus, there are many people who have touched my life and made me who I am today.”