I graduated from Florida International University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2016. Upon graduating, I knew that I needed to figure out where I wanted to start my career as a nurse. The semester before graduation, I considered Houston, TX, as a place that I would like to live one day. One of my classmates and I had a conversation about it on the way to clinicals one day, and we even looked up apartments and the cost of living.
At the time, I was not sure what I wanted to do. I also considered staying in Miami, FL, and finding a job at a local hospital. After graduating, I moved out of my on-campus apartment, packed my things into the car, and drove home to Memphis, TN, to stay with family. I was home about one or two weeks, and then I ended up traveling back to Florida.
I knew that I wanted to start my career somewhere different. I moved in with a friend who was also a student at the same university. While I was there, I spent time studying for my board exam to become a registered nurse. I studied for a little over a month before taking the board exam. I later learned that I did not pass. I remember thinking to myself, "Okay, I do not have a license to work yet, so what will I do now?” Even though I was sad that I did not pass on the first attempt, I was willing to study harder and try again.
I took some time away from studying because I could not focus. My mind stayed on figuring out where I wanted to be licensed and start my career. I knew that the best thing for me to do was to pray for guidance on what was next, and I did just that.
During this time, I thought back to when I wanted to move to Houston. I did some research and found a realtor located in the city. I explained that I would be working in the medical field, and he recommended and searched for apartments within my budget located in the medical center of the city. I went ahead and booked a two-day trip to tour those apartments and to explore. I visited some attractions downtown and ended the last day with a walk along the bayou.
As I was walking and admiring the beauty of the buildings and everything around me, I talked to God about how I could see myself living there. I told God that I trusted Him, and if it were His will for me to move there, it would happen.
I got back to Florida feeling good about my trip. I made the decision that I wanted to take a leap out on faith and start a new beginning. After finding a place to live, I packed my car and headed back to Memphis, TN. I rented a U-Haul, got my furniture and other things out of storage, and headed to Houston with my dad and his friend.
Even though I did not have a job lined up or a nursing license yet, I was excited about this new beginning, and I was confident that I was being lead in the right direction.
When I got settled into my place, my mind was clear, and I focused on studying for my board's exam again. I made a study schedule and stuck to it. I took the weekends off from studying to get out, find hobbies, and enjoy my new home. Within a month of moving there, I passed my board exam, started applying for jobs, got called for an interview, and started my first nursing job in the local hospitals' emergency department. I began to meet people and make friends. Doors opened, and blessings were flowing. I am glad I decided to step out on faith.
Before starting nursing school, I was in the military, which made Houston's transition somewhat easy. I was used to living on my own and away from what was familiar. I knew that God was with me and that He would never forsake me.
Since moving here, I have learned a lot about myself. I have grown in so many ways. I have had many opportunities and have experienced a lot that I probably would not have if I had chosen to stay in my comfort zone.
Was I afraid of the unknown? Of course. Did those thoughts of whether or not things would work out cross my mind? Definitely, but I did not let that stop me. If you feel like the Lord wants you to step out on faith, go for it! Whether you are stepping out and moving to a new city or stepping out and starting a new project, go for it!
My decision to step out on faith reminds me of one of my favorite Martin Luther King Jr. quotes, "Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase."
Bible Verses That Help Strengthen My Faith
“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
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 NIV
"For we live by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7
“For the spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV
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