Life is what happens when you are making plans for the future.  Stressing over what job you are going to obtain, how that job will jumpstart your career, and how successful that career will be are common complaints for the advanced college student (advanced meaning there is a purpose for them taking classes and enrolling beyond going to parties and drinking).  This stress catapults itself into overdrive when these college students reach their senior year.  A huge question mark looms over their heads, sometimes becoming an explanation point when papers are due.  I just wish everyone would calm down and turn that question mark/explanation point into a soft comma, allowing room to grow and something to add if need be. 

If you haven't guessed already, I am a senior.  I graduate in December and the road thereafter has yet to be traveled.  My peers' worries are contagious, almost as costly as the flu, as my mind absorbs the pressures that each one has upon their shoulders.  I have always looked beyond college as the emptiness of excitement because it was up to me what twists and turns my life would take.  Of course, my degree would be firmly in my hand as I take those turns, but mainly it would be my car, my gas and my footsteps that got me there. 

Now, do not get me wrong.  I am a huge planner. I like to know what is in store for me and what my goals are for the future.  However, I have realized that it does not matter how much one plans their life, because life is not a calendar.  It is concocted of various ups and downs and the most regimented person will still be unsure of what to do at times.  I believe that people should just learn to roll with the punches they are given and take life as it comes.  A degree does not guarantee a job and graduate school is not for everyone.  We are so concerned with mastering our masters that we miss out on life.

What have you learned today, that was not provided in a textbook?  When was the last time you really thought to yourself how valuable the material was that you are learning?  How much have you truly remembered in the gazillion classes you have taken?  Most of my life lessons have been through my personal connections with people, and I did not receive a grade for any of this self-discovery. 

Even when a person feels extremely successful and fulfilled, does one ever feel as if he has really made it?  Does this success grant you your purpose in life?  No matter how hard we plan, how much we KNOW what is going to happen...how can you ever really schedule LIFE?  You cannot, and even if you did, I believe you are never completely done with your self-discovery.  Thus, instead of sculpting the enormous question mark now surfacing again in your brain, just be.  Be you.  Be yourself...and I'm sure your life will follow.