Last night, I attended my last program banquet before I graduate. My program doesn’t have many people, so I know everyone who is graduating pretty well. I had so many emotions as I saw pictures of us the past two years. It was incredible to see how much we have grown amidst the tests, assignments, late nights, frustrations, laughs, and life experiences.
It was slightly overwhelming and scary to think of the adventures, experiences, and growth that still are ahead of everyone in my class as we prepare to part ways. I think many of you who are graduating know what I’m talking about. The uncertainty of where you’ll get a job, how you’ll make it financially, or whether you’ll enjoy what you choose to do.
Fast forward a couple of hours to when I was reading about the Jaredites in Ether 1. This family had just gone through a pretty traumatic experience. All the people in the land, except this family and their friends, had their language confounded or changed. They also faced the promise that the people would be scattered. As I faced my own uncertainties about life after graduation, I found great comfort and hope in the optimism of Jared.
“And who knoweth but the Lord will carry us forth into a land which is choice above all the earth? And if it so be, let us be faithful unto the Lord, that we may receive it for our inheritance.”
Jared did not see the future with despair, but as a chance to be faithful to the Lord and to receive promised promised blessings. He realized that, with the Lord, they could make it to their choice land. It doesn’t mean they had it easy in getting there; they were tossed upon the waves of the sea, but the Lord gave them light when it was dark, and He guided their course through the storms (Ether 6:3-12).
So last night, I decided I wanted to be like Jared as I leave BYU. I want to have enthusiasm about the future. I want to be determined in my faithfulness to the Lord. I also felt a reassuring peace that no matter what storms may come, the Lord will light my way and guide me through.
So to all the Seniors at BYU, and any who feel they are beginning another phase of life, I want to share the words of President Thomas S. Monson, “My beloved brothers and sisters, fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.”