So What's Next?

‘Twas the night before graduation and all thru the apartment, not a student was studying, not even a…oh wait! That’s not right, is it? Nevertheless, it’s graduation season! Final exams have been submitted. Cap and gowns have been sized to fit. And there’s a multitude of glittered confetti all over campus as countless students prepare for their grand finale. While some enthusiastic souls are ready to sprint across that platform, their apprehensive counterparts are wishing the stage were a million miles long in hopes of avoiding the dreaded question: “So what’s next?” For those looking to dodge the unmentionable inquiry, I wanted to share a bit of insight.

Disregard the Question.

One of my favorite books is Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen in which there is a scene between the protagonist and a pompous, overtly interrogative woman of affluence. During her series of questioning, the leading lady delivers a timeless yet powerful line. “You may ask questions which I shall not choose to answer.” In other words, just because someone asks a question, you are not obligated to answer it. Your power to choose is not confined to trivial pursuits such as deciding between a $4 for $4 or a home-cooked meal for dinner. This authority transcends over into how you choose to use, or not use, your voice. It is inevitable that someone, even those persons without malicious intent, will ask you a question regarding your future plans. But let this be a reminder that a direct response to their inquiry is not required. Instead, use those instances to practice mindfulness by staying focused on the present moment and reveling in your recent victory. Graduating is a huge achievement! Do not rush into the next adventure before appreciating the accomplishment fully.

Embrace the Question.

Speak your truth. It is perfectly acceptable to not have an adequate answer to this question. Or to not have an answer that you are comfortable sharing. Some plans are best kept quiet until they are complete, and those around you should respect that process. The God I serve has a habit of not fully revealing His plans until what I would deem the very last second. However, these blessings are always abundantly above any of my previous conjectures. Whatever the case may be for you, this somewhat invasive question can be an opportunity for you to show how open you are to God’s will for your life. How open you are to His promises. Known and unknown. Seen and unseen. Heard and unheard…even when your destined path is unclear to you.

For those ready to share, I say scream it from the rooftops! And for those choosing not to answer or to only answer in part, I wish you the best of luck on whatever awaits you. Here’s to moving forward!