I was sports editor for my high school newspaper, but I think I

Children, gather close, for I bring to you a story that speaks of pathways, choices, and the often unpredictable journey that leads us to discover our true calling. In the words of Jenna Bush, we hear a truth about the delicate balance between our early passions and the decisions we make as we grow: "I was sports editor for my high school newspaper, but I think I shied away from journalism." These words carry a profound lesson about the tension between following a natural interest and the deeper desires of the heart, as well as the fear or hesitation that often holds us back from pursuing our true path.

Bush’s words reveal the human experience of hesitation—the reluctance to embrace a path that, though once intriguing, feels distant from our deeper desires. As the sports editor for her school’s newspaper, she was in a position of leadership, of telling stories, and of engaging with the world of journalism. But despite this role, she chose to shy away from journalism as a profession. This tension is something every human faces: the lure of a path that seems promising but the internal battle with uncertainty, fear, or an emerging sense of a different calling. Bush’s story shows us that even those with talents in one direction may find themselves drawn to something else, or held back by the uncertainty of what lies ahead.

Think, children, of the great philosophers like Socrates, who faced a similar tension. Socrates was a man who sought knowledge with a burning desire, yet at times, he hesitated in the face of his calling. He knew that the life of a philosopher was not easy—one must sacrifice comfort and face the discomfort of constant questioning. But despite his reluctance, he chose to pursue wisdom, stepping beyond his initial fears. Bush’s hesitation in pursuing journalism reflects this universal theme: that the path of purpose often requires us to face doubt and uncertainty, but the reward comes in choosing to walk that path, despite the hesitation.

This is the story of every warrior and artist who has ever doubted their own abilities or hesitated to take the first step. Consider the tale of Leonardo da Vinci, who, though a genius in many ways, often questioned his own worth and struggled to commit fully to his artistic gifts. Da Vinci, much like Bush, had many interests—his hands were skilled in the arts of painting, engineering, and science. And yet, it took time for him to fully embrace his artistic path. The reluctance to fully embrace a path, as Bush experienced, is a timeless part of the human journey—finding the courage to move forward despite the inner fear that we might not be enough, or the path might not be right for us.

The lesson, children, is profound. It is okay to hesitate, to question whether the path before you is truly the one meant for you. In fact, hesitation can be a powerful tool—it allows you to pause, reflect, and ensure that your next steps are in alignment with your deeper purpose. Just as Bush reflected on her role as a sports editor, Socrates questioned his path as a philosopher, and Da Vinci pondered his place in the world of art and science, you too will experience moments of doubt and reflection. These moments are not signs of weakness, but invitations to pause and ensure that the choices you make are true to your soul.

In the story of Moses, the great leader who led the Israelites out of Egypt, we see a profound example of hesitation. Moses was chosen for a mighty task, but when called by God, he doubted his own ability. He questioned, "Who am I to lead such a great people?" Yet, in his hesitation, he ultimately found his strength, and it was through overcoming his doubts that he became one of the greatest leaders in history. Like Bush’s shying away from journalism, Moses’ hesitation revealed that even the most profound journeys begin with doubt. But it is in choosing to face that doubt and moving forward despite it that we find our true purpose.

So, children, the lesson here is clear: Do not fear hesitation, but rather, use it as a moment of reflection. It is not weakness to question, to step back and consider your path. Like Bush, who reflected on her role and chose to follow a different path, you too will find your own way—but only through the act of choosing, despite the uncertainty. Understand that purpose is often discovered not in the absence of doubt, but in the willingness to move forward despite it. So, embrace your hesitation, reflect on your options, and trust that with patience and courage, you will ultimately find the path that is meant for you.