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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Encouragement (02/23/12)
Tough Decision

Sylvie’s heart was heavy, but she knew what she had to say to her son, Lucas. Lucas and his new bride, Natalie, had come to talk to Sylvie and Jake, his father.

An opportunity had presented itself to them, and they needed to talk about it.
The opportunity would take them south, way south, to San Antonio, Texas. That was so very far from home in central Wyoming. At one time, Sylvie had dreams of each of their three children living close to home so she and Jake could watch their grandchildren grow up and be a part of their lives. Life had other plans however. Their only daughter was now living in northwestern Montana, a mere 10 hours away.
The oldest boy, Micah, and his family were closest in northern Colorado,
a mere three hours away.

The opportunity in Texas would allow Lucas to follow a dream he had had since boyhood of becoming a veterinarian. He would be shadowing a successful veterinarian that he
had met during his high school and college days of showing livestock and working at livestock shows, sales and on buying trips for those show animals. This man had told Lucas that if he continued to hold this dream, he would help pay for Lucas to go on to
vet school in Texas. How could Sylvie and Jake discourage him from such an offer? Vet School meant big loans for Lucas because they had not been able to put many funds together to help him. Finances had been the biggest challenge she and Jake had in their otherwise happy marriage.

Lucas explained the opportunity in detail. This mentor would engage help from Lucas for six months in his well-established practice. Then if Lucas still wanted to go on to become a vet, himself, the mentor would pay his way through school, and Lucas would
enter the practice when he graduated. Lucas’ eyes reflected the excitement and enthusiasm in his heart, but he also hated to go so far away. “I am so sorry that this couldn’t have come from someone closer to home. I don’t know why it has to take us to Texas.” His sincerity was mirrored in Natalie’s teary eyes.

Jake sat thoughtful and quiet. With a slight quiver in her voice, Sylvie began, “Lucas and Natalie, you both know how much we love you and would dearly love to have you nearby, but the Lord has put this opportunity before you, and you need to be where he wants you. His plan for your lives is the only one that will fulfill your hearts. I must encourage you to take advantage of this chance to follow a dream. If you don’t try it, you will always wonder what life would have been like if you had done this.”

At that point, Jake spoke up and said, “Your mother is right, kids, we have to encourage you to take advantage of such an opportunity. Anything else would be selfish on our part, and we only want the best for you. God will be with all of us, and Mom and I will be okay. Why, this will even give us a chance to see what Texas looks like!”
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This article has been read 754 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Kathleen Langridge
03/02/12
Good story. If only all parents could be so wise. Only one issue, there could be more showing versus telling. A memory of that moment a young Lucas was inspired to become a vet, working in with his showing cattle at the shows. Weak example but hopefully you get the idea.
I enjoyed reading this. Keep going.
Donna Wilcher
03/02/12
As a mother and grandmother, I so relate to your characters.

Your story gave me courage to face the time when they will each take their place (maybe far away) to wherever the Lord leads them...

Thanks, I really needed to read this..Be Blessed.
Jean C Prentice
03/07/12
How many times do we in our lives have to make decisions that may or may not effect us. I enjoyed your article.
Jean C Prentice
03/07/12
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
03/08/12
This is a good story. I could relate to the mom way too well. My youngest will be heading off to college in the Fall. At one time I pictured all of my kids close by but as it turns out I think the closest one will be over an hour away. My dreams were for her to live next door. But I want them to be happy. You did a nice job on the topic. Try to work on showing instead of telling. Instead of saying Sylvie's heart was heavy, close your eyes and picture what she would look like. Perhaps a sigh frown would tug at her lips, her eyebrows furrowed in indecision, and she might sigh or wipe a stray tear.

I liked your characters and the message is one I'm dealing with far roo quickly so it is great to have reminders.