Beginning something new has always been an exciting and challenging endeavor for me. You know, when you’re really looking forward to something, but part of you can’t quite shake off the nervousness? That’s me. I’m the type of person who’s generally excited or looking forward to starting something new, but then I get those few thoughts that keep coming back – what if this doesn’t work out? What about all the things that could go wrong?

A beautiful quote from St. Teresa of Avila comes to mind when I start to get these worries. She says, “Trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.” Beginning this new term, I’ve been looking forward to so many things, but I also have many lingering worries and possible disappointments. Will we be able to go back in-person? Will I be able to manage everything from grades, school, social life and work? I look at St. Teresa’s quote again and it reminds me to breathe. Breathe. Trust that God has put you exactly where you are meant to be, and that He will help you through every thought or worry. You are at this exact place and time for a reason; God will be with you in every difficult step.

Starting a new term also brings to mind themes of renewal and revival. Recently on January 6, in the Ukrainian Catholic Church, we celebrated Theophany which is the baptism of Jesus. In baptism, we are renewed by washing away the old and beginning with a new and clean heart. That’s what is beautiful about new beginnings. A new term is also chance to start with clean slate and with renewed hope. I recently attended the Canadian Catholic Students Association virtual conference and the theme chosen was revival. To me, that’s the second essential part of beginning something new. Revival means taking the things that are deep down inside you and bringing them to life again. So I encourage you, as we begin the new semester with both excitement and nervousness, remember to look for what renews and revives you. Maybe it’s taking a break to read your favourite book or getting a few hours of extra sleep. Knowing that taking time for refreshment and trusting in God for his help, he will be with you every step of the way. Remember that you are exactly where you are meant to be.

Wishing you all the best in this new term!

Anna Lizak
Campus Ministry