From the desk 4/5/11

“Attraversiamo.”

It means, “let’s cross over” in Italian. I do not speak Italian of course, but I heard the word in “Eat, Pray, Love,” and I can give a pretty convincing Italian impression if you overlook my blonde hair and translucent skin.

I watched the movie last night and despite the overused “finding myself” cliché that weaves itself into each scene, I was inspired by this particular word. Julia Roberts’ character declares it her favorite Italian phrase and the word becomes a symbol of her growth over the course of a year spent traveling the world in search of self.

In one month, I will “attraversiamo” into the great unknown world of the college graduate, and I couldn’t be more unprepared or ready. As a senior, people are constantly asking me what I want to do, and my answer is always, “Who knows?” A friend asked me the other day this very question, and I gave that reply. She smiled and told me, “That’s OK, God does.”

I have always had a plan, always had a schedule and list to complete, something I am heading for or that I am motivated to reach. Looking ahead, I have no plan and no idea where I am heading. But God does, and this gives me the confidence to cross over.

So, to the seniors who are feeling the universal unease and pressure to find a career or know what they want out of life, slow down. Enjoy the time that you have left as a college student and put your future in the Lord’s hands.

“’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,’” Jeremiah 29:11.