As the semester drew to a close, several students of Rev. Rut Etheridge’s Bible class were interviewed on the advice they would give to high school students. These students had just completed their freshman year at Geneva College and looked back on their high school experience with these reflections:

Seth Tyson: “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the present” (Master Oogway, Kung Fu Panda). I wish I understood the full extent of this quote sooner. The truth is, time should not be an enemy. It should not consume and bind us. Once we realize this, it becomes so much easier to taste the abundant freedom that God offers us. We’re called beings, not doings. Sometimes you have to be, and stop concerning yourself with doing.

Audrey Husted: Be open-minded going into the future. I know it sounds cliché, but I’ve learned so far in college that so much good can come from situations where you wouldn’t expect it to. Just being open to God’s work in your life and all that He gives you will help you be grateful for all His blessings.

Asa Stemler: Don’t lose yourself in stressing out about what needs to be done, just focus on taking things one at a time. Enjoy the time that you have; worrying about the future will only make time pass faster.

Lydia Tweed: Soak up the time you still have at home. Once you go to college, or wherever the next step of your life takes you, a lot of things change! Get involved in school and church activities. This provides a controlled space where you can learn so many of the skills you will use for the rest of your life.

Westin Harper: It’s okay to not have it all together. Don’t compare yourself to others.

Kaylin Kingston: Always trust in the Lord. When you are having a bad day, He is always there (Deut. 31:6); and when things feel chaotic and out of control, He has a plan for your life (Jer. 29:11). Show God’s love to everyone. High school can be a difficult time. God continuously shows His love to us even when we do not deserve it. Be a light to those around you, and show His love to everyone you see (1 Cor. 16:14).

Dan Thoman: Keep a good relationship with your family or parents with trust and openness. And make the most of it while staying focused on your schoolwork.