Torch, Fall 1982

A re you single, sorry for yourself, and stagnating as a person? Perhaps you have a time management problem with which many singles are plagued - too much time and nothing worthwhile to do with it. Well, I have good news for you , my friend : the sun shines on nonmarried folks just as it does on everyone else . And God is eager to solve your time management problem. Let me say first of all that being single is a calling, not a curse . Isaiah 45:9- 13 states: "Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! ... Shall the clay say to him that fashioned it, what makest thou? .. .Woe unto him that saith unto his father, what begettest thou? or to the woman, what hast thou brought forth? Thus saith the Lord, . .. I have made the earth, and created man upon it, ... and I will direct all his ways . . . ." Even though I did not become a Christian until 1969, I believe God led me to remain single and to pursue a career. For the past 23 years I have practiced dentistry. In addition, I have enjoyed "practicing" my avocation of many outside interests and hobbies. Secondly, I want you to know that you can be as busy as you want to be . My early career days were spent working at the office and spectating in my leisure time . I watched T .V. , listened to my pastor on Sundays , and thought about how nice it would be to be involved in things. Then I was asked to join a women ' s service organization. To my surprise, I said yes , and with that I crossed the threshold from spectator to participator. Then my life became wonderfully busy doing good for others. Zonta International is an organization of business and professional women banded together to serve less fortunate people . There are 32,000 members in 47 countries around the world. I have had the privilege of serving as international president of this group for the last two years . My total time with Zonta has spanned 22 years and never have I regretted my participation. I have become acquainted with countless people of a variety of cultures . I have traveled worldwide, shared our work, and hopefully been a testimony for Christ. In addition , I have filled my schedule with other fulfilling activities. I serve on several committees at Cedarville College. I am a great sports fan and, therefore, I take great interest in the college's athletic programs , especially basketball. I try to get to as many games as possible , both home and away. The consistent testimony of Cedarville's players and coaches has been an enriching experience for me. Although I did not attend Cedarville, my time spent in and around the college has made me feel that it is my school. My work at church has been limited because of the hectic travel schedule associated with my Zonta work. But I have been active in prayer participation on behalf of the church and its ministry. Hours of busy travel have allowed me much time for communing with the Lord . Friends are important to singles . They become "family." I'm thankful for the people with whom I enjoy a close relationship . Occasions scheduled with them involve give and take , and it is good use of my time. Parents remain particularly close to singles. Since there is not the normal leaving of parents and cleaving to a mate situation, the parent-child relationship continues in a very special way. Mom and Dad are a source of love and counsel. They are still interested in my life, and I intensely love them for that. The Lord is very special to me. Whether a person is single or married, there are times when one feels alone. I am so thankful to have the Lord as my "companion." And what better companion can one have? I talk to Him, tell Him my problems, and He gives me His opinions in His Word. So, singles, take heart! Too much time on your hands? Do you need to be needed? Well, get busy! Avocations, church, friends , parents, and the Lord are eager for your participation . Perhaps you enjoy politics , or the arts. Then get involved! Your time management revolves around you and your efforts. Participate, don ' t spectate! And soon, instead of dreading it, you will look forward, with fulfillment , to a night at home alone for a change .