Kassidy is involved with music evaluation and working to grow the My Story branch of CIAM’s new online broadcast platform, The CHOICE.
“The Lord will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.”
Isaiah 58:11
Rooted in familiarity
In the last 6 months, my life has been a whirlwind! Initially excited about the prospect of a year-long clinical practicum anywhere in Canada during my final year of university, reality set in as I considered moving away from everything familiar. Leaving my extracurricular commitments like cheer coaching, Sunday school, and guiding alongside the financial implications of renting and buying groceries as an unpaid practicum student were major factors in my decision-making process. When the time came to choose, I opted for Edmonton.
Eventually when classmates began receiving their placement, many of us still hadn’t heard where we’d be assigned – given the scarcity of denture clinics willing to take students this year in Edmonton. Our instructor had to choose which students would fit best, considering personal circumstances like children and mortgages. She called to ask if I would reconsider going further down south. Though open to the idea, I felt hesitant.
A Well Watered Garden
Reading Week was approaching, and many classmates prepared to visit their assigned clinics and meet their Preceptors. I was starting to feel anxious and upset that I still didn’t have a definite idea of where I would end up. An old classmate messaged me just before Reading Week with an opportunity to study at his brother-in-law’s clinic in Calgary, which had a large Chinese-speaking clientele. He needed some help with the language barrier and I had the ability to do that. Excitedly, I accepted the offer due to my desire for a secured placement and my longstanding interest in Calgary, which offered proximity to home and natural beauty. Though moving still concerned me, I felt compelled to follow my heart and accept the offer.
After moving and living here for nearly three months there are still challenges, I still worry and stress about many things. But I try to actively remember Isaiah 58:11 “The Lord will guide you always;he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” When I open my eyes to things He has provided so far I feel truly blessed. The support I receive from my loved ones at home, from my CIAM family and from my new friends that I’ve made here is such a gift from the Lord.
Continuing Forward
As this new beginning for me continues, I ask for prayer that I can continue to serve the Lord in His will in this new place with these new people- that he continues to lead me where He wants me to be and I can humble myself to see what He has planned for me.
I thank you for all the prayers so far and I hope everyone else has a blessed year!
