A few years ago, I was one of those girls too who genuinely thought... well honestly I think it was more like expected (because it just logically made sense--since that's what EVERYONE did...) that college was a time to get married, and I simply would not finish it without being married. Well, here I am; I graduated over a year an a half ago, I'll be 24 in a few months, and juuust in case you were wondering, I am not married. (hahaha) Let's think about this though; I DO have a degree! And I've had multiple -literally life changing- work experiences and internships. I've also met and worked and served with countless numbers of incredible women and men, and also specifically, UNBELIEVABLE children who floor me with their talents and understanding of and vigor for life. I have been to London, Australia, Hawaii, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and Paris. I have eaten real Belgian waffles and seen the Eiffel tower sparkle at night. I have been through the temple and made sacred covenants with my Father in Heaven.
So here's the "Aha!" moment; none of these things had a "marriage prerequisite" attached to them. AND, some of these things would not have been a possibility had I been married! Food for thought.
When I started college, I didn't have a clue about my own potential. I had no idea what potential I had to BECOME a student, or a teacher or leader or advisor. I didn't know I could travel to multiple destinations by myself to meet up with friends at international destinations. I didn't know I would find in myself capabilities through my years as a student, which would require of me a level of dedication and work I did not know I could take on. I did not know I could overcome the challenges I've had to face socially, scholastically and mentally. I didn't know I would ever have the courage to play my ukulele at a talent show or sing a duet at my graduation, or a stake women's conference! Never EVER thought that. I NEVER thought I'd even CONSIDER Grad School, but here we are; researching graduate programs is a daily occurrence for me these days. Masters degree?? Me??
Yes. I definitely COULD do that. And that's the bottom line. This post is NOT meant to be an expression of my dreary and sad thoughts about my lack of a husband or children. It is my written reminder to myself that I am CAPABLE OF MUCH MORE that I originally perceived. I can BE or DO ANYTHING I want to.
I'm ranting a little bit. But this is something that has been on my mind constantly for months and months now. I know you and I have in us a well of possibilities and talents of which we haven't even scratched the surface yet. DON'T FORGET THAT!!! Life is longer than tomorrow and next week and full of days and people and possibilities and detours--but listen; those detours are what get you on the path to ALL you can be. Not just a part of it. What are some things you want to accomplish??
Things I want to accomplish:
-be a published children's book illustrator
-go to Grad School [specific field of study still undecided :)]
-be a CAREER lady. (who would've thunk?)
-get married in the temple
-have as many children as humanly possible
Grateful for:
Mustard yellow and pea green macaroons. (citrus and pistachio flavored though!!)
Quote of the day:
"Because scriptures are generated from inspired communication through the Holy Ghost, they are pure truth. We need not be concerned about the validity of concepts contained n the standard works since the Holy Ghost has been the instrument which has motivated and inspired those individuals who have recorded the scriptures.
Scriptures are like packets of light that illuminate our minds and give place to guidance and inspiration from on high. They can become the key to open the channel to communion with our Father in Heaven and His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ."
--Richard G. Scott
Well said Amanda! You are amazing!
ReplyDelete