As I quickly approach my final year of college, it appears as though all anyone wants to ask me is what I'll be doing next year. Four years ago, when I was a senior in high school, I loved being asked that question. I knew exactly where I was going and what I was doing, and I couldn't wait to get there. But now...I don't know what I'm doing or where I'm going next year.
The first few times I had to answer this dreaded question, people seemed to be disappointed in my unsure response. It upset me and made me feel disappointed in myself, but I quickly realized this is the last thing I should be feeling. For starters, I still have an entire year of college left! Why isn't anyone asking me what I'm doing right now?
It seems like everyone is always so focused on the future, but when are we going to start living in the present? I am certainly excited about the nine months that are ahead of me. I'm going to enjoy every last second I have at Saint Mary's.
I am not afraid of the future, or the uncertainty, but instead I welcome it with open arms. The opportunities ahead of me are endless. I don't necessarily have to stay in the Midwest, or even the United States. Why not travel? Why not take a chance and move to a new place and meet new people? But, I'll cross that bridge when I get there.
We're always looking for what's next. We can't seem to settle for what's in front of us in the present and we want more. But why don't we stop and embrace the fact that where we are is where we're supposed to be, and who we are right now is enough?
If you want to know what I'm doing after I graduate, the answer is I don't know, and whether you find that acceptable or not, I don't care. I'm only 21 years old and although the real world is quickly approaching, I get to decide what I want that to look like. Someday. After these days.
Please stop rushing my future, I'm busy enjoying the present. Ask me again in nine months what I'm up to. Maybe I'll have an answer for you then.
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