Why Plan?

In high school, I had big plans. I was going to become a nurse. I was going to get my degree and live in a fantastic studio apartment, own a white kitten, and marry at the age of 26 – all while writing a book on the side. Sounds fantastic, doesn’t it? When I explained these plans to my mom, she always encouraged me to pursue them. However, my wise mother always gave a warning: “Remember, life doesn’t always turn out the way you planned it.”

Mothers are usually always right.

To start paving the way for my nursing degree, I became a Certified Nursing Assistant. I started my high school and college career helping the elderly walk, sit, stand, eat, bathe, wipe, dress, and play. I loved it. For a time.

Then, during a poetry reading class I took, I overheard the conversation of two English majors. They were talking about the classes they were taking – Shakespeare, Creative Writing, British Literature. My heart began to ache for those classes, those experiences. I yearned for my old dream of reading and writing books for the rest of my life. In that afternoon in the dark, small auditorium, English beckoned to me again. The idea of withdrawing my nursing application began to fester.

Days went by, and after talking with my husband, a major life switch was needed. I was going to become an English major.

There was some difficulty and heartache in leaving the nursing route. I thought of my Organic Chemistry and Anatomy classes – how hard I worked for a chance to get into the program. I thought of my sweet residents at the assisted livings I worked at. I thought of the money, the pride, and the useful medical knowledge, all lost to an English degree. But there was a turning point: I loved all things English, so nothing could make me happier.

That is what life is all about. Being happy, learning, and experiencing life. Although I will miss holding a resident’s hand, or studying off of juicy cadavers, I look forward to the books I will read, the papers I will write, and thing things I will discover. All of my past experiences, whether related to nursing or not, have aided in my journey through this glorious life.

Looking back, I feel tempted to ask my high-school-self, “Why plan? Mom told you life never goes how you plan anyways. Be free and let life happen.” However, I hope I have gained a little wisdom through this journey of change. Plan because it gives you something to work towards. Plan because you never know. Plan because you do know. Plan to foster dreams. Plan because nothing is ever wasted – “all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good” (D&C 122:7).

Wish me luck on this new and exciting journey of English.