I have been considering going back to college for a second degree for the past year. I have taken several classes at our local university and rediscovered how much I enjoyed that setting. I always liked my college classes and would probably be a professional student if I could make a living doing so. Unfortunately - I don't know of a college anywhere that is willing to pay students to attend their school. All of them want you to pay them (BIG BUCKS) to attend their prestigious campus. Is a second degree or a master's degree worth the time at this stage of my life? Is this the path God has for me? Those are the 2 questions I have had for the last year. To be in the God's will is the best place in the world, but I'm not sure where that is right now. Our church's newsletter came via email today and hit home with me. Our pastor's letter talked about being the best you can be right where you are. He made a statement that just hit me like a brick - "In life and in ministry don’t be surprised if your prayers about God’s will for the future go unanswered until you learn to do God’s will for today. You don’t need to worry about your placement. The LORD did not forget where He left you working in the field, and when you get your assignment done to the best of your ability a new assignment will be sure to open up before you."
This is an area I have struggled with for the last several years. As a stay at home mother for several years, I was far behind other women my age when I went back to work. Some days it is really hard to be proud of where you are and the position you have but it takes all parts to make a whole! The most important thing to remember is not how many notice the job you do - it may be that no one notices because that means things are working well! When things go wrong everyone notices. In addition - from the quote above - the Lord has not forgotten where He put me, nor has He forgotten what He has for me to accomplish. Whatever I am, I need to be a good one!
"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!"
Matt 25:23 (NIV)
5 comments:
Don't wait for something to fall in your lap to decide that is what you are supposed to do. Be proactive!!! I took graduate writing and computer writing classes when my babies were in diapers and loved it. I took classes - not for grades -- in my 40's until I was 47 and returned to get a master's in media studies which I've just completed. I have loved loved loved every single minute of it and would encourage anyone thinking about returning to school to do so. There are many online programs now and onsite programs are catering more and more to older students.
For me, with moving, it was the only thing that I could take from one place to another. I wish I hadn't waited so long to do this.
Don't think about it anymore -- go do it.
Hiya Stawberry..be proud for u need not others approval..from the looks of it..you raised a kind, loving family..THAT, my friend is the highest achievement there is!
Hi Strawberry,
This is something I struggle with too.But I hated studying and am glad college is over.But when it comes to studying I would encourage you to do so.
Totally agree with you about being where you are and doing a great job!
You are great with advice and always have been encouraging on this blog and comments left....so good job done on this bit!
Motherpie - one of the first things I learned about you was that you were graduating in May with your Master's (spouse's blog). I was (and am) very impressed. Thank you for the encouraging words!
Angel - What a sweetheart you are - even though we've never met face to face - your sweet words are a definite balm to my soul. Thank you, Friend! :)
Frasy - You are such a great source of encouragement. From the very first post - you always leave positive and uplifting words! Thank you!
All 3 of you are special and I appreciate each of you visiting. I always enjoy your blogs. Each of you has very special insights and I love reading your thoughts on the different subjects. Thank you!
Strawb: There are many colleges that will cover tuition expenses.. at least in the Arts... through teaching assitantships etc. There are scholarships. Look into those. My sister went back to school in her 40s for a Psych degree.. she started off with a Masters.. then started working and working on a Phd. She is now a Dr. in Psych. Anything is possible. You just have to put the energy out there (do the leg work) and then let God do the rest.
Like the other girls I say go for it!
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