Written by Breanna Clayton

Throughout life many milestones are celebrated. For instance, when moving from preschool to kindergarten there is often a graduation and celebration. Your parents and grandparents are so excited to see how adorable you are in the tiny graduation cap. Fast forward 13 or so years and you have crossed not only the stage from preschool to kindergarten but many more grades have passed you by. As you grow and obtain new milestones you are well prepared by your teachers, parents, and mentors on what to expect in the upcoming grades.  But what happens when you have your last graduation?

Graduating from high school is such an exciting time.  As I graduated high school, I felt so celebrated. My school threw us a party, my church threw us a party, and my family of course celebrated one of life’s greatest milestones. People tell you your college years are the best of your life and to soak it all in – but don’t forget to study! I knew college would be challenging not only academically but personally. But as my last graduation approached my expectations for where I thought I would be in life as I graduated from college were not met.

I was confused on how I would find a career. I was overloaded with debt and no income. And I hadn’t found my spouse yet like all of the movies make it seem it should be. Through every milestone you have expectations, and sometimes they aren’t met. Jeremiah 29:11 says “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Although at times it felt as if I was behind in life, speaking with other young adults helped me realize that everyone is on their own path and no two paths are the same. Being connected with other young adults in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church provided me with friends I could talk to who were being challenged in similar ways. It also provided a sense of security and consistency. I could rely on the fact that every spring I could attend the Young Women’s Retreat and the Young Adult’s Retreat. At these retreats I was able to not only relax and enjoy my time with old and new friends; it acted as a reminder to stay grounded in my faith and reminded me it is all in God’s hands!

It turns out its okay to not have it all figured out and it is okay to change your mind. God’s only expectation for us is to love Him in all that we do. So, hold yourself to God’s standards and not those of society. Trust in Him and put His glory first!

 

This blog is part of the year long focus on Young Adult Ministry & the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Make sure to follow this blog, social media accounts, and subscribe to Cumberland Presbyterian Magazine for more. For the first blog introducing our year long focus check out:

The Future of Young Adult Ministry & the CPC