Every notebook starts the same: with blank pages. They are meant to be used and filled up. Recently, I opened up my current notebook and saw a bajillion blank pages. I was immediately overwhelmed by how many pages I have and how many are left for me to still use.
My last semester of college can easily be described as staring at blank pages not knowing what to do with them. I knew what I wanted to do but actually not at all. During the last few months of my senior year, I started my job search and started thinking more about what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. I was filling out applications for jobs in every possible category hoping that it was something I genuinely wanted to do and that I would get the job. I just wanted to fill up my blank pages.
A few friends were applying to this thing called the Fellows Program in cities around the country. So I decided to apply. I hadn’t applied to many things when I applied to the Fellows Program. I applied to it the night before it was due while watching a movie with friends. So I was shocked to hear back from a few cities within the week. Then I got an interview with the Asheville Fellows and then I was officially accepted into the program. It all happened so fast. To me, that was a sign.
[If you aren’t familiar with The Fellows Program, it is a ten-month leadership development and training program for young adults recently out of college or graduate school. The goal of the program is to provide an environment that equips the rising generation of Christian leaders to live their faith seamlessly in all areas, resulting in personal and cultural transformation. The program has multiple components: an internship, a theology class, involvement in a local church, and community events with the other fellows.]
I was lost in what direction to go with my career. I was scared of losing community and finding new community as a working adult. Having to find a new church is so intimidating. The “real world” is nothing like college. Most of these things were handed to me during my 4 years at Virginia Tech.
As I was applying to the Fellows Program, so much of what I was looking for in my next step were integrated into the program. I was scared for my faith, my community, and my social life honestly. Firstly, and most importantly, the Fellows Program allows me to mature in my faith particularly in a professional and “adult” setting which I know absolutely nothing about. I am given the opportunity to work in an internship and be in community giving me new relationships and professional connections that will set me up well for the future.
When I heard back from the Fellows Program, I was scared to accept it. It all happened so fast. I hadn’t even heard back from other jobs yet. With time and prayer, I saw this rapidity as a sign. There’s a reason that all of this happened so fast. I am wanted in Asheville. And so, that’s where I’ll go.
My blank pages are filled. My notebook is not empty anymore. I still have more pages to fill, but hey I’m only 21.
And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” Isaiah 6:8
If you would like to support me on this journey and help me reach my $7,000 goal, you can support me here: https://facltnc.give2.church/Checkout/AddItem?v2glid=129333
