Article September 19, 2005 Issue

Solid ground found

From failing at school to academic success and multiplied blessings

By Charles Babb

AS MY LAST two years of university stretched into five, my life became a very steep hill climb indeed. To paraphrase words from a hymn that eventually became a beacon for me, truly my "footsteps strayed" (Mary Baker Eddy, "'Feed My Sheep,'" Christian Science Hymnal, No. 304).

I felt as though my internal compass was broken. I was missing classes, was late when I did make it to class, and was getting failing grades in courses without even wondering why. In addition, I was caught up in the excesses of fraternity life instead of enjoying its genuine benefits.

At one point, I accepted a standing invitation to visit friends from my childhood who had relocated to Australia. I took work on their cattle station as a hired hand. Quickly, I came to learn a great deal about family life, livestock, and the economics and inherent risks of agriculture. My return to the United States nine months later included a layover in Tokyo, this time with Canadian missionary friends of my mother's youth. I still lacked any definite direction, but I now see how I was being guided by the loving hand of God.

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