Hello readers. You all haven't known me for very long...I only began my first contributions to the blog this past summer. And as you probably noticed, I don't get posts up nearly as often as Clare. Yes, my past year was a whirlwind of busyness, but it was also filled with fruitful blessings.
The most interesting part of my year was the continuation of college visits. As an aspiring high school senior, I'd always had hopes of attending college and studying something I love. Over this year my mom and I have traveled the country, trying to visit many of the schools I was interested in. As of yesterday evening, I am officially done with my applications (finally). So, although I'm still in high school, "college" took up a great deal of my time.
The actual events of my past year, therefore, are rather uninteresting. I remember right at the beginning of 2011, I sent an email to Clare, asking for some advice regarding "my future" (as I so persistently began thinking) after having diligently read CYW for some time. I think this was the first big step of a discerning journey for me. When I consider how many choices and changes of opinion I've made since then, it's hard to believe I'm finally settled...somewhat. Due to various influences, I had very firmly decided to myself that I would attend a Catholic college, and only an orthodox Catholic college. I researched fervently, trying to find one that had the types of programs and resources I was looking for. I was very stubborn, and my parents tried to make me see reason. Due to whatever reason, Divine Providence perhaps, none of the truly Catholic colleges in the United States had the resources I wanted...and that seemed quite contradictory. Didn't God want me to be the dutiful girl and immerse myself in a faithful environment? But the things I'm interested in are quite diverse: a strong Biology program, with some focus on ethics; and a music program with a harp instructor. The Catholic colleges I so diligently found had one or the other, or neither -- but not both.
I was quite distraught, feeling set in my ways, thinking the only way to grow up a strong Catholic young woman was through an education like this. But then, I finally heard from Jesus what my mom had been trying to tell me for a while: God gave me my interests and talents for a specific reason, and I shouldn't throw them away based on some preconceived notion of what I thought was right. And then, with my mind open, I found some truly wonderful opportunities.
Good grief, I seem to have written solely about college. But the truth is, it took up such a majority of my time -- physically and mentally. (And the rest was filled with school and various activities). I feel that my struggle is not over, but I can say, that this year brought with it some spiritual contentment, and many blessings -- including writing for this blog. After overcoming this one hurdle, this one decision, I know that I can trust in the same God to help me with whatever other struggles I'm currently dealing with and that I will certainly deal with in the future. Perhaps I'm an example of not judging too soon -- or pretending to know God's will for you without really seeking it.
I pray that all of you have a happy and merry New Year and continue to enjoy the blessings of this Christmas Season. I hope that my posts as I finish up my senior year of high school continue to be of some blessing and enjoyment to you.
In Christ,
Liz
Congrats on finishing your applications :) Uni applications here in Canada are due very soon and I'm still deliberating about where to apply... I found what you said really helpful, especially about God giving us interests and talents for a reason. I realized something when reading your post. Thank you. Merry Christmas and happy new year to you too!
ReplyDeleteGod bless you, Liz! It's true that God brings us all on different paths, and sometimes He surprises us with His plans. I'm glad things are opening up for you, and I'll keep you in my prayers. Thank you so much for what you write here; it has been a blessing to all of us.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad this was a blessing to some of you :)
ReplyDeleteI know how you feel, Liz. I'm a senior as well and I'm struggling with college decisions. I got into Notre Dame, my dream school, but it's really expensive and I haven't heard yet about financial aid. Part of me thinks "Of course God wants me to go here; it's a great Catholic college." The other part, the one I like to ignore sometimes (haha) says that I shouldn't profess to know God's will, especially at this point in the process. Please pray for me as I discern where to attend college, and I will do the same for you!
ReplyDeleteHannah F, thank you so much for your thoughts. I'll say a prayer for you, and thank you for praying for me as well!
ReplyDeleteAs you know, trusting in God's Will is ultimately going to make you a lot happier, so don't worry too much. Pray about it, and God will place you where He wants you to be.
--Liz