College made me selfish. There, I said it.
Since beginning college applications in high school, life has been about MY school, MY major, and MY journey through change. Freshman year, I was suddenly thrown in a whole new state by MYSELF, fending for my OWN opportunities, finding my OWN niche. Of course, the phrase “find yourself in college” is tossed around quite a bit, and is an ongoing mantra for many people as they begin to choose between pathways.
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All of the sudden, I’m over halfway done with college. Saying it flew by is an understatement: time is completely of the essence. When I look back to that first year and think about all my tough nights, unwanted emotions, and poor attitude, I can attribute it all to centering MY life around ME.
I have finally found the paradox to making college and life count: SERVING.
"For even the Son of God did not come to be served but to serve." Mark 10:45
I am called to serve by giving grace generously, by encouraging others on rough days, and by speaking truth in love daily. I am called to put all lists aside to listen instead. I am called to pray and love without any conditions.
Not only is this a matter of service, but it is a matter of TRUST - trusting that God can use us, making life into a beautiful adventure of indescribable love and purpose.
What if we, as students in college, willingly cleared each other’s dishes? Or even kept a bin of granola bars in our cars for anyone we see in need on the side of the road? What if we wrote a note to the cafeteria worker, thanking them? What if we asked each other how we can pray for them every week and ACTUALLY prayed for them?
The acts of service can be quiet deeds done in secret too. No doubt our hearts will unfold, refold, and be transformed with every act of love.
It really is the ultimate paradox: living for others helps us fulfill our purpose.
