While working in Grenada, there was a program that became available for employees to access sessions with a career coach. I remember sitting in her office as we discussed my current career as well as my goals for the upcoming years.
One of those goals involved going to the US for training, however, there was another opportunity that was offered to us-the option of going to the UK for training instead.
As I reviewed the prospects with my coach, it seemed so easy on paper as we wrote down the pros and cons of moving to either country as well as the career opportunities each offered.
For years I wanted to go to the US for training-did the exams, did my rotations, and attended conferences in my specialty choice to boost my chances. Despite doing what I could have, it just didn't work out when I wanted it to. But I was determined to keep trying.
This determination however was challenged by my coach when we looked at the pros and cons of each training post, the main difference was the location. This forced me to ask myself was what was my true reason for wanting to go to the US?
Why not consider training in the UK?
UK training was something I considered previously as a student and when I applied to do my medical student rotations there, I felt as if nothing was working out. When I applied to the US, everything went so smoothly I knew that it was exactly where God wanted me to me at that moment.
Where did He want me to be now?
I felt as if I was giving up my dream to work in the US, like I didn't try hard enough or did not work smart enough to get there. That thought was far from the truth. Then, I remembered something that happened years prior. Something that helped bolster my determination as a teenager when I was told that I did not qualify for a class which would enable me to do medicine, was helping me make the right choice years later again:
Different paths can lead to the same goal
You see, when I was in secondary school, I did not achieve the grades needed to enter the Science class. At first, I thought that without being in that specific class, I could not apply to medical school later. My mother and I arranged a meeting with the principal at that time to see if I can do an extra exam or course to help better my grades. Unfortunately, that could not have been done but, she did say I can consider doing the courses I needed after I completed by school exams.
That was all I needed to hear. With that in mind, I completed the courses and eventually got into medical school. A different path from what I knew, but in all a great journey along the way. The lessons I learnt, the friends I made and the traits that developed as I faced trials on my journey will forever remind me not to belittle or complain too much when my path requires a detour.
Now, I was faced with another situation that again reminded me that even though that I was choosing a different path, it did not mean that my goal was not going to be achieved. It may not have been what I envisioned but you know what, it was going to help me achieve something that I was preparing for years.
I prayed about my option and decided to apply to the UK.
Looking back now, I am ever so grateful for making that decision. Every step has been divinely guided and even though it has been tough, it has been worth it. God knew what he had in store for me and used a different path to help me obtain it. He knows what He has in store for you too. Trust that He has your best interest in mind :)
There will be many situations in our lives that would often lead to us questioning the path chosen because it does not "look" like what we anticipated. We may even look at others on their journeys and wonder why our journey was as easy, relaxed, or even glamorous and you know what? That's okay.
Keep your blinders on and continue working hard knowing that the path before you, your path, was chosen for a reason. As you work towards your goal, do not forget your path isn't less valuable than others. It is/was designed to help mould you into the person you are needed to be.
And as you plod on your path, please don't forget the lessons along the way, my friend! You will get to where you need to be.
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
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