MW Guide for New Seasons

Hello sweet friends,

I have been itching to get to my desk to write to you in this back-to-school season. Autumn is the season of change, and in many ways, the start of the year. I wanted to wait a bit, as I remember the whirlwind that was the time right before classes start. It’s excitement, dragging duffles into new spaces, long lines at the bookstore while holding forty pounds of book weight, new chapters starting, and for some, certain chapters are ending. Change is always around the corner.

I wanted to gather some little pieces of advice— we’ll call them principles— to hold onto as you begin this new year. And if school days are behind you (as they are for me), I think these still stand for any chapter of life (new jobs, old jobs, new seasons of all kinds—)

Approach Change with a Posture of Courage

That which is unknown and uncontrollable can be terrifying. Sometimes, we become paralyzed when facing decisions. We often seek to control outcomes, when all we can control is doing our best with what we know in the moment. Some risks turn out great, and sometimes, they don’t. That doesn’t mean you made the wrong decision; it just means you are living life. Life is strange. It rarely goes in a straight line. (It would be boring that way, anyway). Nothing is wasted.

If you find yourself giving into fear or anxiety often, instead of listening to what your mind is telling you, speak to yourself. Choose the messaging and be brave.

When I first started law school, on my first day of worship in my new church in NYC, a woman walked up to me with Joshua 1:9 on a piece of paper, and she slipped it in my hand and walked away. I never forget that.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Take it one day at a time. And if you need an extra boost— this message is a powerful one:

Remember that you are never alone.

Be Intentional with Connection

We often just think of ourselves, our anxieties, and our goals. How often do we reflect on who God has placed around us in this season? (Probably, not nearly enough).

That person in proximity likely has something to teach you, and you have some role to play for them. Life’s mysterious web is always unfolding.

It’s important you pay attention to who you are building life with. Some are for a season, and others have the power to change the trajectory of your life. It’s worth reflecting on this.

Seek Growth Over Comfort

Growth is not a given. It must be chosen. Knowledge is not power, but the action with that knowledge is what contains the power. As humans, we gravitate toward comfort and ease. We know this.

If you want to succeed, along with faith, the only thing that will help take you there is learning to do the hard thing. This is how resilience and discipline are built. It means showing up when you are down, afraid, anxious, and tired.

God never promised us ease or anything close to it. Prepare wisely.

When given the choice, always choose growth. Maximize who God created you to be. What we often don’t talk about is the hard way may take longer, it may be lonelier, and it may require more stress— but you will be better for it. The hard way prepares you for what is next.

Be Discerning

For many, new seasons may mean new places surrounded by new people. This applies to relationships with new coworkers, professors, pastors, roommates— everyone. No one is exempt.

Don’t put anyone on a pedestal. Have realistic views of people. And know that not everyone is what they seem.

When we find ourselves in new places, we are often vulnerable and impressionable. Stay discerning. Pay attention to gut feelings. Don’t ignore what your eyes and mind are telling you. You are responsible for your life. Guard yourself from those who exploit positions of power. This is not meant to sound alarmist, but it’s a reality I wish we spoke about more.

You belong. God has placed you where you are for a reason. Don’t lose any part of you trying to impress, be accepted or for other opportunities. These crossroads will come. Be ready for them.

Be Present

It can be so easy to miss so much of your current season. Distractions abound. Milk your current season for all it’s worth. Enjoy it. Try new things.

It’s a time to prepare yourself well to make the next decades fruitful, but don’t miss the glimmers. Don’t spend your time just doing one thing or watching others live their lives.

Put down your phone and live fully. Live to the hilt.

As Robert Herrick said:

Gather ye rosebuds while ye may,
   Old Time is still a-flying;
And this same flower that smiles today
   Tomorrow will be dying.

Wishing you a blessed start/close to whatever season you are in. And if you are in the middle of your season, remember, it’s never too late to choose the life you want for yourself. Reflect, adjust, and pave your path.

Above all, walk with God. He is ever near. He is your fortress, your friend, your father, your provider.

He has a plan for you.