It seemed like I was smiling into the wind as it caressed my face with unusual coolness. That evening Sister Theresa had made us sing a hymn as we assembled. I felt a sudden peace and it had lasted a while. My heart was engrossed with lightness, inward joy. I couldn't just tell why. My soul was at solemness as though a burden had been lifted. What could it be? After we had sang the hymn, I stayed back to have a word with Sister Theresa.
" I had finally chosen a path and I had prayed things would work out well for me. If this lovely lady who I treasured could be of the least assistance then that would elevate my emotions.
" Sister Theresa."
". Yes dear."
" I think I have a new dream."
" you do? That's good to hear. What's your plan for the future?"
I hesitated a bit hoping I was not making the wrong choice.
". I want to be like you."
" like me?"
" I want to be a reverend sister just like you. I want to remain dedicated to the Almighty God my whole life."
She embraced me tenderly. " if that's his plan for you, I hope you achieve your dream.
At the age of seventeen, I began my training in the seminary school. This time I was extremely sure of what I resolved to. Of what I was assured of. Nothing could change it. Absolutely nothing.
My ordination was coming in a few weeks time and I" was preparing cautious for it. On a warm Saturday evening, Sister Theresa had taken me to the city in a cab. We strolled past markets,schools, shopping malls, stadium and much more. We walked in silence. More structures had been erected in the last few years. Finally Sister Theresa broke the unusual tranquility.
". Stella, I brought you for a reason. Not just for sight seeing." she continued after patiently awaiting my response but none was forthcoming." most times we make the mistake of choosing the wrong track or walking into inappropriate purposes. You've considered living wholly for God. That means you won't live like the world. I sincerely hope it's God's plan for you." Then I had the feeling she had said that previously.
" I will give you more time alone to think, Stella. Your path becomes narrow when you follow the His footsteps." With this, she left.
The day was drawing its curtains. I had limited time. But I wanted to have a good view of everything. It was going to be my last time. I couldn't tell what had propelled me that in a while I found myself at the entrance of my school (that was in the past though. I just stood there idly gazing into space. In a few minutes, the dismissal bell was rung. Students trooped out from the entrance door. I smiled remembering the times I used to behave in that way. Though if I had not been kicked out of the house, I would have just graduated recently. Probably, planning on how to get admitted into a prestigious university. Then I couldn't tell if I would have had the same dream I had currently had I remained back home. Maybe not.
Breathing deeply and exhaling with enormous. strength I stood up.
It was 6pm when I returned. I headed to Sister Theresa's office first.
" you're back dear."
"Sister Theresa, I've made a decision. I want to be a reverend sister. It wouldn't change."
The tone and finality of my voice resounded in the room,in her ears and echoed into my consciousness.