Monday, January 20, 2014

Checkpoint

"These lines kept on echoing in my head. It was probably because of the sweet aroma of the chocolate frappe and the cool breezy afternoon of Paris. I tried to stay focused on my news report about the new feature of Musee de Louvre, but the feeling of nostalgia hindered my mind from thinking about other things. I sighed and continued to look for inspiration in the beautiful landscape of France. I pushed my glasses up and typed senselessly. Somehow, the thought of returning to New York made me wake up." (Caritativo, 2011)

This is the first paragraph of the class prophecy I wrote back when I was a high school senior. Reading this again after three years broke my heart. I used to be so sure of what I wanted in life. I used to have such a clear vision and timeline for the things that what I wanted to achieve. I'm not sure when uncertainty replaced the confidence that I had within myself. 

I went from wondering if I'm fit to be a nurse, destined to be a holy nun, meant to be a barrio doctor, fated to be an advertising/newspaper writer, to finally owning that deepest desire to teach. 

I'm crying because things have changed greatly. I remembered a conversation I had with a friend a few days ago about life plans. I surprised myself when I told her with all conviction that I entered Ateneo with a goal of getting a job abroad after finishing but now, I will graduate with my decision to stay here and serve the country. Thinking about what I said scares me to levels I never thought I'll reach. It scares me because I can no longer identify with the ambitions of my old self. There is so much anxiety in me because I'm not sure if I am really growing as a better person - if I am doing a swell job in being a person. 

I still love France, New York and writing. I like the idea of travelling the world doing a job that I'm sure I will not mind flourishing into a lifetime career. However, this wonderful fantasy...it's not for me anymore. It kills me to actually acknowledge it.

I'm holding with my two hands the new dream and goal in life. I fear and worry if this is the right path for me but, with determination and God's help, I will tackle this road with my whole being.