Follow your calling

There is something about loving what you do that makes everything seem a little easier and a little more worthwhile. I have been studying to become an elementary teacher for almost four years now. I have to admit, last semester I was getting a little tired of going to class and writing eight-page papers on things that seemed so distant from my life. This semester has been a complete turn-around. Yes, I still do my fill of complaining about waking up in the wee hours of the morning to get ready for a day that starts when the kids begin arriving in the classroom at 7:45am. However, there is something very fulfilling about knowing that I am waking up early to do something that I love. Everyday brings new challenges and experiences, and I love the opportunity I have to grow in my understanding of teaching and working with kids. Though I love where I am right now as a student at Vanderbilt, this semester of student teaching is getting me very excited for the next phase in my life. There is still so much to be decided, but I am ready to step out into the world and follow the road wherever it may take me.

Over the past few years I have been able to witness and talk to many different people who have a true passion for the work they do on a daily basis. I am always amazed by the types of people who know exactly what they want to accomplish in life and then just make it happen, no matter what it is or what it takes. One thing I have noticed, though, is that a lot of people don't necessarily know exactly how to get where they want to go. Sometimes you just have to let things happen, believe that God is with you throughout the journey, and hope for a little luck along the way. Actually, that is probably the best way for things to work out. You are able to not only work hard for your dreams, you also get to experience new things and learn about yourself through your success and struggles. Your dreams may be altered here and there along the way, your understanding of the world is guaranteed to develop, and you may find yourself walking down a completely different path in the end. But no matter what, as long as you can find a way to do and share what you are passionate about, life is sure to be exciting. The willingness to follow a call is also the willingness to accept the challenges along the way and to make decisions that may not always seem easy.

I have a new journey ahead of me, but I am excited to see where that journey will take me. I know what I am called to do, but I have yet to figure out where, when, and with whom I am called to work. As HELM Leadership Fellows, we have a lot of support as we work to discern our call. Though I have not felt called to congregational ministry, I know that I still have an important call that I am meant to fulfill. I have been able to experience so many things and learn about myself amid different situations. I have also been challenged to question my understanding and to grow as a leader. These past four years have helped me to grow into who I am today, and I am thankful for the opportunities I have already been given in my life. I'm looking forward to tomorrow.