By Cali Alvarez
Sitting in a class of fellow seniors the other day, our teacher asked us what our plans were after graduation. It seemed to me that nearly every student responded with a great plan, with confidence, with finality as they proudly stated the college they’d chosen or the major they were going with or a completely unique path that felt right to them. I was so happy to hear that all of my friends were feeling good about their future plans, but couldn’t help but feel unsettled about what lay ahead for me.
This is our final Guild Gazette publication for the school year and our theme is “flow.” As I sat wondering about what I wanted to write about this month, the phrase “go with the flow” came to me. This phrase is something we tend to hear a lot but rarely act on because it’s so cliche. Honestly, have you ever stopped and thought about what someone really means when they say it? I wanted to dig into how this phrase has been resonating with me lately and how it could be helpful to you, whether you’re also a senior with a matter of weeks between you and junior-adulthood (gosh, that’s wild), someone going through a time of change or difficulty, or another student moving into new activities and situations.
1. Living in the Moment
I know that my life is going to go through a big change very soon, even though my post-grad plans aren’t set in stone. This past month has been a rollercoaster as I’ve been thinking about leaving familiar things behind but still being excited about a new lifestyle and what’s to come.
Something I’ve been doing my best to focus on is simply being present. My school days are always the best when I actually soak up every moment, whether that’s enjoying wholeheartedly what I’m learning or having a special conversation with a friend. It’s easy to be distracted by the “not yets” throughout our days, but a huge part of “going with the flow” is enjoying where you are while knowing that the future is in the Lord’s hands and that’s the safest place for it to be.
When we’re able to release those worries and instead engage with the people around us and enjoy where we are, God is able to refresh our hearts with peace and comfort.
2. Imagining what you Love
What’s something you love to do? What’s something that makes you smile? What’s a lifestyle that always brings you joy when you work on it or imagine it?
Whenever I’m feeling uncertain about the future, I love to imagine the most wonderful “what-ifs.” I love to be creative, so as I’ve been thinking about “after graduation” time, I love to imagine days where I’m able to paint in the morning or spend more time on vocal training or take dance classes every week. I love to spend time with my family and friends, so whenever I wonder about the next few months, it’s so lovely to picture fun adventures and peaceful moments with my loved ones.
God’s promise in Jeremiah 29:11–“'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.'”–is one that rings true to this. If you’re a middle schooler deciding what high school holds, an elementary schooler enjoying new activities, or a senior worrying about what path to choose, take comfort in the beautiful truth that God will always guide you right where you need to be.
3. Trusting the Lord
As I sat in that class of fellow seniors the other day, it was strange and bittersweet to think about moving on from this place, a time when everyone is still in the same classrooms and dreaming of their bright futures. We’re still safe in a place that feels small and whole and simple. In just a few months, everyone will be moving on to their next adventure, their next chapter, and their new life. But I realized that this nest of safety nets and friendship and guidance doesn’t vanish when we walk off that graduation stage.
Even when school is no longer surrounding us, God still is. Even when friends aren’t in the same place, God still is. Even when we move from one activity to another and aren’t settled, God still is. Even when middle school isn’t with us, God still is. Even when things aren’t the same, God still is. Even when we aren’t certain, God still is.
We are always about to walk hand-in-hand with the Lord no matter our circumstances or uncertainty or fear. God will always be that safety net and that shelter and that peace, even when storms come or the sun is shining.
So whatever you’re going through right now, remember that God has got you. God is holding your hand, surrounding your presence, and guarding your heart with his everlasting love and peace and provision. He will get you right where you need to be, no matter what. And that’s an incredible truth to know.
To every student, parent, and teacher reading this, God bless you and your families, and I’m praying that this article has encouraged you to go with the flow of life and trust that God will bring you safely and mightily through every season. Especially to my fellow seniors, whether you know exactly where the Lord is leading you or you’re still eagerly awaiting His timing like me, I wish you all the best in all that you pursue and know that you’ll do absolutely amazing on whatever path you choose.
Thank you to everyone who’s made this senior year a truly unforgettably wonderful one. God, I can’t wait to see all the good you have in store for all of us in everything we do.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” –Romans 15:13