www.vocation.com - How should I prepare myself during the two years befor

	R.L. asks: Having spoken with a priest, and of course, with God, at some length concerning my future, I realize that God has called me to be a nun. For some time now, I have been developing my relationship with Him further, and living a 'Rule of Life' to spend more time with Him and aid my formation. During my prayer, however, I have also realized that, although I am called to the religious life, I am not supposed to enter the convent for at least another two years. The practical and intelligent thing to do is to finish my university education (I have done 3 years out of 5.) The various priests and vocational directors I have talked to have all agreed that this is the best course of action. I have a definite two years more before I may enter the convent - in that time, what would you advise me to do? Specifically what should I do in order to keep my focus on God, and plan for the future, but STILL keep my feet on the ground, live out my current situation well, and not lose sight of God's call? A lot can happen in two years - I want it to be Christ-centered and in service of Him, not just trying to cram in two more years of laziness and indulgence before I give my life away. Basically, I've already GIVEN my life away! How can I actively live that now? Oh, how hard it is to be patient!! I want to give myself IRREVOCABLY, and it's hard to have to wait another two years! Thank you for your advice.
	Dear R.L., Take your vocation as a given. Do not doubt it. Do everything you can to grow in it and strengthen it. As regards your spiritual life, this means to keep developing your prayer-life, having a regular daily and weekly "routine" of prayer and the reception of the sacraments. Professionally, it means giving yourself to your studies, doing them the best you can. Socially, it means that your vocation is going to determine the types of friendships you are going to continue and develop, and the types of hobbies, pastimes and social activities you will indulge in - only those that will help your vocation. Apostolically, it is going to mean more service to the Church, maybe at the Newman center, or some other way in which you can start doing things for others and spreading your faith. For your vacation-time, try to have something lined up that will help you to keep working along the lines mentioned above. Also, if you are not sure yet where you should join, make sure to take the steps to find out, visiting particular convents, going on discernment retreats, etc.... God bless,


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