Embracing God's Plan

Where do you see yourself in five years? I was recently asked this question, and as I crafted my heartfelt response, I recognized how incongruent my thoughts are in comparison with society’s expectations of future goals and successes. In order to answer the question honestly, I glanced in the rearview mirror to nearly five short years ago when my life was drastically altered by my husband’s unexpected death. The dreams and goals we had as a husband and wife of growing old together tragically ended. My role as a mother changed dramatically, as I now am an only parent. Three lives depend solely on me. All of my hopes and future plans were shattered in a few short moments. Grieving forces us to look at life differently and truly evaluate what living for today really means. I am forever grateful for my family and close friends that supported me and my children during the most difficult time of our lives.

Through God and my support system, I found I was able to face the challenges ahead. One of those major challenges was to re-evaluate my career. A few months after my husband’s death, I was struggling to find my creativity which was essential to my photography and design business. I also felt God calling me to use my gifts more meaningfully but I was unclear of what that really meant, so I prayed for several months for clarity and direction.

I remember one morning as I sat contemplating a career change, I asked myself what I valued most in life.

I drew three circles and labeled them- God (faith), relationships (helping others), and art (creativity),

It was an “a-ha” moment for me. Those that know me well know that I have had few moments in life that seem so clear, as I usually analyze decisions for days, weeks, or months… but I could clearly see God directing me. I needed to find a way to incorporate my three core values in moving forward. Of course my journey was not an easy one, it was a long road that required great sacrifice, as I gave nearly three years of my life (and my children did too) to complete my Master’s of Science Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. During the course of my graduate program, I learned so much both personally and professionally. My work has encompassed many theoretical approaches including emotionally focused and family systems theory and I have worked with children, adolescents and couples. I am dedicated to seeking a therapeutic direction that best fits my client (s) and often explore creative art practices and techniques when applicable.

So now when I am asked questions such as, Where do you see yourself in five years?

I am reluctant to look much further than the day in front of me, but I know I am passionate about cultivating my mission to seek God in my work in helping others live their best lives. I have faith that God will show me the way as he has continually throughout my journey and just enjoy the ride.