…about lessons learned
My sister has been doing some “fall cleaning” (as opposed to spring cleaning). She came across a poem I had written in 1973. I was 20 years old and was just finishing up my sophomore year of college. I had started my college career with the intent of becoming a history teacher. One week of subbing for an elementary teacher in my home town had thoroughly convinced me that that kind of teaching was NOT my calling. I suppose — because I really don’t remember — I was floundering a bit. I had gone on several week-end mission trips called “Lay Witness” trips. Lay people — as opposed to clerics — would travel around the region and hold week-end revivals. Talking to young people about Jesus was the most exciting and enjoyable thing I could ever imagine. So here is what I wrote:
May 1, 1973
I sat in the Library one cold and windy night wondering what God was doing in the height. I didn’t care about school or books. I only wanted one of His gracious looks. When I consider all the jobs to be done and all the people who need to be won, I look at the books which are stacked so near and wonder why in the world I am here. I look at the students around me (there is one with an interesting case of acne), who seem so intent on their study and all I can think is, “How cruddy!”
“Oh, Lord in heaven above, if I must suffer for your love, why did you place me in this world below? Why do I have to study so? I’d rather serve in some far off land, be tortured by the enemy’s hand than to study and read useless material I don’t need. Well, if this is where I must remain, give me courage to endure the strain. Take my burden and ease the load. Help me to walk this weary road. Help me for you to live as to you this feeble mind I give. Amen”
That was my last semester at school. I returned home and went to work in a music store and then at a bank. I got married, had two children, got divorced and sowed some wild oats. But God had a plan and He drew me back. I am still seeking God’s will for my life but now I do what I am given to do with anticipation and joy.