What I really could have written in my last post was that my first week of school left me completely overwhelmed, uncertain and mentally exhausted. Even as I wrote, I was working earnestly to sort through all of the emotions I was experiencing.
But then this weekend and today happened … after spending some much needed time exercising, pampering myself, journaling, engaging in leisure reading and simply resting, I returned to work. This series of events and surrounding conversations have brought me back to a place – a place of purpose.
As previously mentioned, I never intended to pursue a terminal degree; this only started in 2012. At that time the plan was so clear on my heart that I could hardly contain myself. But the last few years have involved the more difficult parts: moving from dreams to reality and putting in all the work that it takes to do so. At times, the journey has been so incredibly discouraging. Many times I have felt alone and wondering where were the people like me. There were times when I felt deceived and even more when it seemed as though the journey was much too much for me to bear. But then there were other times when I’ve been elated to receive gentle reminders that near and far there are those who are living their lives for a greater cause, searching for purpose, committed to service, and willing to sacrifice it all to find their way.
This doesn’t make me ultra-special or some sort of uber saint. It just makes me someone who acknowledges that a whole lot of people have – and continue to – sacrifice for me to be where I am and see the places I am going. The very least that I can do is live my life in a way that aspires to shows my appreciation, while also striving to inspire others along the way.
Thank you for gentle reminders and encouragement along the way,
Me