When I was little, I was convinced I was supposed to grow up to be a doctor. It was my standard answer for the inevitable question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” The reason why I wanted to be a doctor may surprise you. It probably has not occurred to you that my initials are MD, also the abbreviations for medical doctor. There you have it! I was born to be a doctor!
Then I realized that despite my extensive family history in the field of science, it was just not my thing. Being a doctor didn’t look so appealing any more. Ever since that moment I understood that science was integral to becoming a medical doctor, my career goals have shimmered in and out of focus.
I grew up in what can generally be called rural Illinois (everything outside of Chicago for those of you not familiar with my great state). My father is a United Methodist pastor and his job required constant moving. At my current age of 27, I have lived in nine different cities. I have long considered my grandparents house in the country outside of Bloomington, IL as my home. This is my absolute favorite picture of my grandfather, who recently passed away, and I outside that house.
As I moved from school to school and had experience after experience, who I wanted to be changed. A short foray into architecture in Chatham turned into a love for public speaking in Illinois City. This passion led me to consider becoming a pastor and sent me off to Elmhurst College. After a struggle of a freshman year, I changed schools and majors; ending up at Lincoln Christian University and deciding to pursue campus ministry. The Wesley Foundation at Purdue University was kind enough to be my testing ground. Soon, seminary and biblical languages were calling my name. Now, with an MDIV nearly under my belt, I hope to grow up to be an undergrad professor.
Although, I don’t think I will ever really “grow up.” Maybe one day I will have a good paying job. Maybe one day I will get married. Maybe I will even have kids. However, these are not my goals in life and will simply be happy additions.
What are my goals?
- To help as many people as I can.
- To see as much of the world as I can.
- To challenge myself in every way.
- To help bring about the Kingdom of God in the here and now.
I may have been born to be a doctor, but I’m not meant to be one; nor am I meant to be defined by a job. I have found who I am. The real question is, who are you?
