picture perfect memories

I remember 2017 started with a lot of uncertainty. It was the midst of interview season and I was waiting to hear back from schools - got waitlisted for interviews (ugh), invited for interviews (yay), then got waitlisted again (ugh) and then rejected (ughhh). 

There were many firsts: First time traveling across the country alone. First time spending spending over $1000 on a [last minute] domestic flight. First time dealing with 4+ hour flight delays (God, I hate snow). 

It was a difficult time for me. I was trying to balance long days in clinic, having to take work home with me, prepping and planning for interviews, volunteering, maintaining a social life, finding time for my family and my boyfriend, eating healthy, exercising and getting [some] sleep. I was stretched incredibly thin. I was so exhausted. I dreaded waking up. 

But He held it together for me. 

I still remember the day I got -the- phone call I had been waiting for. I saw the area code and my heart stopped. I couldn’t believe it. The timing was perfect. When I heard the words from the vice dean, I literally sobbed in joy. I could barely respond. So many prayers were answered that day. So much anxiety and fear was lifted off my shoulders. 

Looking back, I realized that it was all part of His plan. The waiting, the frustration, the stress. Through this process, he taught me to be patient with myself. To forgive myself when I fall short. To let go of my worries and my mistakes. And to trust in Him. 

I’m proud to say I’ve ended 2017 in much more of a balance - mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually. It’s definitely not perfect and I’ve got a loong way to go. But I’m truly humbled by this opportunity to learn more about His creation and to spread His healing.