23 Comments
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Fr. Paul Guarnere's avatar

You're not "second" anything, Christina. You are a delight here on Substack and God's given us the gift of your for awhile longer until that spot becomes available and we lose you to your time consuming academic pursuits! 🤍

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Christina Lynn Wallace's avatar

This genuinely threw my face into a huge smile. Thank you, Fr. Paul!

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JMH's avatar

Sometimes it’s important just to be able to look back and see how far we’ve come.

Also, it’s good to be reminded that our value and our intellect aren’t determined by admissions officers or hiring committees. I’ve been there many times through the years, and while it’s hard to see it in the moment, they are doing their best, often get it wrong, and ultimately God will do what He will do, and what He does is undoubtedly best

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Christina Lynn Wallace's avatar

Amen!

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Bob Hannaford's avatar

I have very strong inclinations toward pessimism, in general. And even I was strongly encouraged by the hopeful words of the admissions officer.

Be ready for the call when it comes.

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Christina Lynn Wallace's avatar

I receive this, Bob. Lol.

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Sakari's avatar

Wow Christina! I hope I reach where you’re at someday! I recently had to be let go from my job due to summer budget cuts and I find myself struggling to trust God’s goodness and questioning His plan for my life. Sometimes I wonder if He has one at all or if He cares about my life outside of salvation

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Christina Lynn Wallace's avatar

Oof. Girl I’ve been there. I was there for years. Something about getting older and watching God reveal Himself through each tragedy has strengthened my confidence in His character. I can stand here all day and promise you that He absolutely does care about you beyond the mere beauty of eternal salvation, but I pray that you would one day know this truth on a deep, personal level. Because it is true, friend. I know it.

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Sakari's avatar

Thank you for your encouragement and I’m sorry you didn’t get into Oxford

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Christina Lynn Wallace's avatar

It’s okay. Life continues to be pretty cool anyway. Hardships make simple pleasures feel not-so-simple. I’m about to go outside for a run, and man, what a gift. :)

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Yvonne Glass's avatar

Yes! Christina, yes 🥹🙏

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J.E. Bartel's avatar

the dream isn't over!! the best is yet to come. telling myself that too after recently getting overlooked for a promotion❤️

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Christina Lynn Wallace's avatar

I am full of hope for both of us. ♥️

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Pam Whetstone's avatar

❤️

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Jubilee's avatar

Wowwwww❤️🥹

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Kimberly Phinney's avatar

This is so good. He is always good. And I’m still believing for you anyway. Maybe it’s not a “no” but a “not yet.” I understand this season well with my illness and loss. What we learn in the dark is the most profitable for our souls.

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Robert Cale's avatar

Sister, I am so sorry you didn’t get into Oxford. I know the Lord still has a great things in store for you. Your piece today reminds me of the Psalms. There is pain/grief, then there is a remembrance of God and His goodness, followed by praise and worship, and finally, there is the volitional decision to walk in obedience knowing God is enough. Thank you for being vulnerable enough to share this with us.

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Amanda Jane's avatar

So so good! Thanks for sharing!!

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Mark Daniels's avatar

Thank you for sharing this. God bless you. “Waiting” can be fruitful for us although it’s hard to do. Nothing can separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus, our Lord.

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Dusty Hegge's avatar

I'm so incredibly proud of you. 🖤

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Debi Hassler-Never Forsaken's avatar

I’m really sorry for you Christina.

I can’t help but think God may be using this immediate disappointment so that you are ready, emotionally, physically and spiritually for His plans for you-you know He has your best and His glory in mind -I look forward to His big reveal! Bless you in the waiting, and for sharing your honest, true thoughts. You are a beautiful writer, keep trusting the Source 🙏

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Fletcher Gadsden's avatar

Love what you have to say there. The internal struggle is to keep your eyes on Him. Regardless of the outcome. Stay in Him as that the most important. Apart from Him, we cannot do anything.

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Mackenzie's avatar

🩷🩷

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