The Hand that Guides

If an angel had appeared to me in a dream when I was young and had described to me my future as it actually had unfolded, I would have said, “No way! There is no way those things will ever happen. Nah ah, not to me. And not in my life.”

If I had never left my hometown at a young age, I would probably have ended up being a teacher like my father for the rest of my life. I would have had a lot less than the resources and comforts that I enjoy today. Would I have been just as happy and fulfilled? I would probably has moments of envy at my other successful friends and classmates. But the simpler lifestyle would probably have meant I would be healthier, humbler and with an even greater sense of humor. I would still enjoy books, music and writing. I would probably be more fervent and more sincere in my prayers. I would still seek and try to find the sacred and the divine in my life. Yes. I would still have been happy and found meaning and fulfillment in my life.

What if I had more resources and comforts than what I enjoy today? Like a flashier car, a bigger house, more money to spend. The first thing that comes to mind is that I would probably be so full of myself, I would have less time nor space for anyone else or probably none at all. I would probably not find it worth my time to spend time in prayer. I would still like to read and I would probably would like to go and see the places and events that I have read about. I would still love music and I would probably go to more live concerts to watch and hear my favorite bands and artists. I would probably go to more places that I could write about. I would have become an insufferable, obnoxious, self-centered, self-engrossed, conceited fool. I would probably not like myself at all.

I had my dreams. I had my ambitions. I am proud and happy where and who I am. It has been a guided journey. And it is the Divine Presence in my life that has made the difference. There were dark and sad moments. But they have been outnumbered and overwhelmed by days of joys and happiness. I still would not have believed what an angel would have told me then. But I have always believed that there is a loving presence that has held my hand throughout my life’s journey.

Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.
~ Psalm 40

The angel Gabriel was sent from God
to a town of Galilee called Nazareth,
to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph,
of the house of David,
and the virgin’s name was Mary.
And coming to her, he said,
“Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”
But she was greatly troubled at what was said
and pondered what sort of greeting this might be.
Then the angel said to her,
“Do not be afraid, Mary,
for you have found favor with God.
Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son,
and you shall name him Jesus.
He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High,
and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father,
and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever,
and of his Kingdom there will be no end.”
Luke 1:26-38