Welcome Back

The school year is upon me. I am a full month into classes. I am adjusting to this new title of "senior". In about 40 years I will have this title once again, although I don't anticipate being as sprightly then as I am now, but perhaps just as enthusiastic about new privileges, such as discounts at McDonald's and a special menu at Silver Diner.

Why do I start to think about the future? It seems a little too soon, especially to think about the distant future. If anything, most normal people in my position are consumed with thoughts about the near future. Will I graduate on time? Will I get a job? Will I marry a rich and handsome man who loves Jesus? All completely normal and rational thoughts.

But I think one of the best things I can do is to live in the present moment. I caught a small glimpse of the joy and sanity you get from truly living presently when I was doing mission work in the Dominican Republic last year. It was only a brief visit, where everything was planned for me, therefore alleviating any worries I might have, but it also pointed to a greater idea that God has a plan for us. As a blind person cannot see what is before them and relies on someone who can see, we are blind to our futures and need to rely on God, who knows what is in store for us.

I think also of St. Faustina's diary, on the very first page, she says

"When I look into the future, I am frightened,
but why plunge into the future?
Only the present moment is precious to me,
As the future may never enter my soul at all.

It is no longer in my power,
To change, correct or add to the past;
For neither sages nor prophets could do that.
And so, what the past has embraced I must entrust to God.

O present moment, you belong to me, whole and entire.
I desire to use you as best I can.
And although I am weak and small,
You grant me the grace of your omnipotence.

And so, trusting in Your mercy,
I walk through life like a little child,
Offering You each day this heart
Burning with love for Your greater glory."

As tempting as thoughts of the future can be (aka daydreaming), it is so much more glorious to live presently. One day the future will be my present, and I don't want to spoil the surprise.