366: One Story Per Day (2024)

Day 63 - What Do You Want?

     As graduation day approached, Nathan felt himself on the verge of doubt, his mind racing with feelings such as eagerness, worry, and a persistent sense of uneasiness. While his friends were ecstatic about the future and the numerous opportunities that lay ahead, Nathan couldn't shake the impression that he was lost in a sea of uncertainty, with no compass to direct him or a destination in sight.

     Nathan didn't lack desire or drive; he had always been a hardworking student, succeeding in his studies and winning the admiration of his friends and instructors alike. However, as he prepared to enter the real world, he was overcome with a tremendous sense of existential dread, a fear of the unknown that immobilized him with uncertainty.

     "What do you want to do after graduation?" his buddies would ask, their voices filled with anticipation as they listed off their plans—internships, job offers, graduate school applications.

     But Nathan could only respond with a reluctant shrug, a terrible sensation developing in the pit of his stomach as he attempted to express his own goals.

     For years, Nathan had followed the predetermined road mapped out for him—a path of academic excellence and extracurricular activity, résumé building, and networking. But suddenly, confronted with the potential of crafting his career, he was at a loss, wondering where to turn or which route to pursue.

    Nathan became overwhelmed by a sense of existential dread, a worry that he would never find his place in the world, that he would forever be adrift in a sea of mediocrity, a mere footnote in history.

     But just when Nathan had surrendered himself to a life of useless wandering, a fortuitous encounter with an old acquaintance ignited something inside him—a glimmer of hope, a spark of inspiration. As they sat together in a dimly lit coffee shop, drinking their beverages and talking about old times, Nathan's buddy discussed his challenges with finding his life's purpose, his road of self-discovery and personal development.

     As Nathan listened to his friend's narrative, he felt a sense of connection, recognizing his challenges reflected in the experiences of others. For the first time in a long time, he felt a glimmer of optimism, a sense that he wasn't alone in his uncertainties, and that there was still time to find his place in the world.

     With this newfound feeling of purpose, Nathan set out to explore the future that lay ahead of him, embracing the uncertainty of the road ahead with renewed confidence and drive. As he ventured out into the world, ready to forge his path, he realized that, while the road ahead would be long and twisting, it was a trip worth taking—one of growth, and limitless possibilities.