"Je suis sûr que Dieu ne fait attendre personne à moins qu'Il voie qu'il est bon pour lui d'attendre."

When you hear the idea that God keeps no one waiting unless it's good for them, think about it like this: sometimes, waiting is actually in our best interest, even if it doesn't feel like it in the moment. Imagine you're standing in line for an amusement park ride. The line is long, and it seems like you'll never get to the front. But what if, while you're waiting, they're doing a safety check on the ride? Maybe they're making sure everything is perfect, so when you finally get on, it's the best and safest experience possible. In life, delays and waiting periods might be necessary for us to grow, learn, and be ready for what’s coming next.

C.S. Lewis, the guy who wrote this quote, lived through some pretty intense times. He served in World War I, experienced deep loss, and lived through the uncertainties and horrors of World War II as well. These experiences likely influenced his understanding of waiting and the purpose it can serve. He knew that sometimes, the answers or resolutions we seek aren’t as immediate as we’d like, and that patience can build character, resilience, and deeper understanding.

Think about a personal example: imagine you've applied for your dream job. You've done everything right—polished your resume, aced the interview, and sent a thoughtful thank-you note. But weeks go by, and you still haven’t heard back. Frustrating, right? But during this wait, you might discover new interests, gain experience in your current role, or even find a different opportunity that’s a better fit. Maybe the waiting period is nudging you towards something you hadn’t considered.

So, what do you do with this wisdom? First, embrace patience. It’s not easy, but next time you're stuck in a waiting game, remind yourself there might be a reason. Secondly, use the wait to your advantage. Build new skills, explore different paths, or reflect on what you truly want. Staying proactive can turn a seemingly stagnant period into a growth phase.

Picture this scenario: Sarah, a graphic designer, applies for a prestigious fellowship. She’s got the credentials, the portfolio, and the drive. But then, silence. No rejection, no acceptance—just waiting. Instead of getting discouraged, she dives into a side project she's passionate about, something she never had time for before. Months later, she finally hears back. She didn't get the fellowship, but her side project gains traction, leading to unexpected freelance opportunities and, eventually, a job offer that aligns better with her goals and values than the fellowship ever would have.

Sometimes, it’s all about perspective. The next time you find yourself stuck in a holding pattern, think of it as a chance to fine-tune your approach and attitudes. You might not see it now, but there's a good chance that this period of waiting is setting you up for something even better. It’s a bit like preparing a garden—you plant the seeds and wait. You don’t see the growth immediately, but beneath the soil, things are happening. And before you know it, you’ve got a full bloom.