Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5–6 – NIV)
It has been a year since I finally decided to come home for good. After working overseas for almost 19 years, I realised it was time to pursue the dream I had postponed for so long—to finish my education. Returning to school at the age of 46 has been one of the most meaningful and life-changing decisions I have ever made. Today, I am a second-year student taking up a Bachelor of Physical Education. Looking back, I truly believe that God had his perfect timing for my life, just as Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us: “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.”
Going back to school was not easy. I had to adjust from the busy life of being a household helper to the equally demanding life of being a full-time student. Studying alongside classmates much younger than me taught me that age is never a barrier to learning. Since our university follows a trimester system, everything moves at a very fast pace. At first, I doubted whether I could keep up with the workload and the demands of college life. However, because earning a degree has always been my dream, I remained determined despite the challenges. Through hard work, perseverance, and God’s grace, I was able to adapt and succeed. All my efforts paid off when I became a Dean’s Lister, proving to myself that dedication and perseverance truly lead to success. During those moments of doubt, I held on to the promise of Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
By God’s guidance, I have also continued serving him through music. I serve as a guitarist at the Divine Mercy Chapel, where we celebrate the Sunday Anticipated Mass every Saturday. I am also a member of the choir in our parish, Saint Paschal Baylon Parish, as well as in our school. Serving the Lord brings me peace, strengthens my faith, and gives me the courage to face life’s daily challenges. Like the promise in Isaiah 40:31, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and never tire.” God continually renews my strength as I pursue my dreams while serving him.
Everything I do, I offer to God. I constantly pray for his guidance, wisdom, and protection as I continue this journey. My greatest prayer is that one day I will proudly say, “I did it because of God! I am now a professional teacher.” I also hope my story will inspire others who think it is too late to pursue their dreams. No matter your age or where you are in life, it is never too late to start again. Dreams have no age limit, especially when they are guided by faith, determination, and trust in God.
As Psalm 37:5 beautifully says, “Commit your way to the Lord; put your trust in him and let him act.” I know that as I continue to entrust my life to him, he will fulfill his purpose for me and use my journey to encourage others to never stop believing in their dreams.
Sheryl T. Reyes
The Philippines
