“EVERYTHING happens for a reason” – a worn-out cliché often used by people to console themselves after misfortunes in their lives. The tired saying emphasizes destiny, fate, and inevitability.
Is life then predetermined?
To my fellow graduating Thomasians, life is basically what we choose it to be. There is no destiny but only opportunities, which God graciously challenge us with, in order to mold and develop the substance of our character and the content of our faith.
There’s no such thing as fate. There is choice.
Choices. We decide based on choices. We take risks when we do so. We make choices in order to make a positive change in our lives, in others and in our society.
The outcome of our lives is the sum of all the decisions that we have made, no matter how small or big. It is the choices that we make that will show how good or how bad we will live our lives, and not the fate we are supposedly destined to.
As we come to end of another chapter in our lives, I want to share some nuggets of advice that I have gathered within the portals of our University. I hope that these words will serve as light and guidance as you take another journey and turn a new leaf in the book of your life.
Continue growing. Finishing school doesn’t mean that you stop learning. Outside the four corners of your classroom lies a world that is waiting for you to discover. It is a world full of information, of possibilities, and, contrary to what most of you believe, of opportunities. Hone your skills well and learn new things. Remember, a person who continues to learn new things stays young. You only grow old if you stop learning.
Think positive. A pessimistic person is the last person we need in this world, so don’t add to the overpopulation of pessimists. Being optimistic in anything you do, believe it or not, will help you achieve your goals and succeed in your endeavors. So have a positive outlook in life and see how things will turn out great because of your optimism.
Last, have self-confidence. Trust in yourself and believe in your capabilities, and this will allow you to go the distance. Remember, you can accomplish anything even if others doubt you. But you will never accomplish anything when you doubt yourself. It may be difficult but NOT impossible. Therefore, believe and it will be realized.
Fellow graduates, again, keep on growing, think positive and believe! You command your fate and nobody else. God bless!
