In this college commencement season, young people are searching for a direction in life, looking for the next step. The possibilites seem endless, and yet, we often feel that there must be a “right path”. There is something deep within us that wants to believe there is a unique place in the world and a special role that only one person can fulfill. Is this just wishful thinking?
St. John Paul II was a strong believer in the “uniqueness and unrepeatability” of each human person. He knew that every soul was made by God to glorify him in a particular way. If we think there is a specific path for us, we are right! But while the thought of fulfilling an unrepeatable vocation might be exhilirating, it could also be anxiety provoking. “What if I miss it? What if I mess it up?”
The good news is this: God is always in control. Our part is only to follow his lead! As St. Paul says, “All who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God” (Rom 8:14). He leads us when we have a good intention and a seeking heart, even if it may be misguided. After all, look at St. Augustine! He was often off the right track, but God was leading him nonetheless—even through the twists and turns—knowing that someday he would be a great saint. Therefore, we can listen to the words of St. John Paul in his message to the youth of Cordoba, Argentina: “Pray insistently to receive the needed clarity … then reply with a joyful yes!”
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