UT or not UT? There really was no question.

I would often tease my mom when I told the story of choosing the college I would attend. It started in high school when my counselor said I should apply for an engineering scholarship since I had good math and science grades. So, I did but all the while I was planning to go to the University of Kentucky where my boyfriend was attending. I already had received scholarships there in math and computer science. However, my counselor called my home to tell me that I was accepted into the minority engineering program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; a full ride which included tuition, room and board and a Co-op job which could lead to full-time employment. I only had to buy my books. Well, I kindly declined the offer not knowing that my mom was on the phone in another room. She politely said, “Yes she will accept.” Thus, the title of this blog.

Needless to say, I attended and graduated from UT. The first year was rough, I came home as often as I could and however I could. My mom told me to stick it out for a year, then I could transfer to another school. Well as the Lord would have it, there was an ice storm in Knoxville, the first one since 1963, so I could not get home for weeks. This gave me the opportunity to make friends and begin to enjoy the ride; one friend being my bestie, Wendy. I also changed my major to math my junior year and was still able to graduate the following year. It was the best decision my mom made for me.

My mom wanted what was best for me. She knew the road ahead and UK wasn't the best for me. I'm so grateful she did. I would not be where I am today had she not pushed me out of the nest. Living on my own away from my natural family, traveling alone for work and sometimes for pleasure, making life decisions and ultimately learning to depend on and live for the Lord. This reminds me of Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you to declare declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you plans to give you hope and a future in order.” God knows the end from the beginning. He is Alpha and Omega. Looking back, I believe God revealed some of the plans he had for me to my mom and she was obedient to follow his leading.

I'll end with this question: Is there a tough decision or conversation the Lord is leading you to make or have? We have to trust that he knows what's best for us. He may be leading you to speak to someone. Remember He knows the whole story. We only get a chapter, a sentence or a word at a time. Trust Jesus! My mom did! 😊