HopeFul Reflections

I recently completed my MBA, praise God. I managed to finish the degree faster than the allotted year, leaving me with an open stretch of six months. While fortunate to have options, I found myself lost on how to spend this gift of time.

I am accustomed to seeing my path laid out before me. So when faced with endless possibility, I struggled to envision my next step. However, when lost, my remedy has always been to simply move forward. I tried tutoring for a while. While rewarding in its own right, tutoring alone felt misaligned with this unique chance to enrich myself.

I realized I needed to consult my core values to direct this stretch of freedom. With my basic needs cared for, I have the luxury to develop myself and experience things that responsibilities often crowd out. So I stepped back to clarify what actions align with my core values.

I hope to be a devoted husband and father, able to provide for and guide a family. I want to build confidence and skills to handle whatever comes my way. I want to become a well rounded individual. I aspire to look back proudly at a life spent growing, challenging myself, and lifting up others.

With this vision in mind, I felt called to travel and expand my worldview. I started learning Spanish to connect more deeply with patients and to broaden my horizons. I picked up practical skills, like basic home repair, to carry into future family life. I also committed to writing, lift weights, run, and other enrichment to nurture mind, body and spirit. I am taking time to study my Bible and my faith so I can right my mind and strengthen my spirit.

This stage has offered ample time for reflection through prayer and journaling. The prayer and quiet have been pivotal to understand how to approach life’s problems and reflect on its’ lessons. Consulting my values and envisioning the man I aspire to be has directed me toward this rewarding path of self-discovery. By continuously moving forward with purpose, clarity has come, and I feel equipped to make the most of this pivot point on my journey.

While this uncertain time is stressful, it has given me the opportunity for growth and transformation. After the initial uncertainty comes a great time that I will look back at fondly.

I wish you all success in finding your path and I am praying for you.

-JKG