Life Off-Label

The title is brought to you by the great Ice Cube.

I had one of those “Where has the time gone?” moments today when I realized that it’s already been six years since my high school graduation, and it led to my reflection on what I’ve accomplished since then. Sure, like most high school classes, I’m faring better than our cliche screw-ups among the “popular” ones. However, some of my classmates have already found success with their careers and bought their first house. Others are married, and perhaps a kid or two has popped into their lives. As for me… I’m still in that limbo where I can’t settle down yet, but I shouldn’t envy those that can. Sometimes the “in progress” phase of our lives goes unappreciated, and I don’t feel so bad for basking in it.

If you asked me six years ago where I thought I’d be at this point, I would have figured I’d be done with pharmacy school and working as a pharmacist. I’m obviously a few years behind schedule, but the extra time it’s taken me to get where I want hasn’t all been for nothing. I spent more time in school and got a degree so that I could step back and question whether pharmacy was really right for me. It also gave me more time to mature and get through the whole “finding me” phase while still in undergrad. On the relationship side of things… I’ve definitely kissed my fair share of frogs, at least providing me with valuable insight on who I shouldn’t marry. I stuck my feet in the “real world”, seeing what it’s like to work 40 hours a week and learning how to responsibly manage my own income. No student loans, no parents, just bills. That job also gave me valuable pharmacy experience and allowed me to ultimately realize it’s what I wanted to do all along.

Most importantly, I haven’t strayed so far from my path that I’ve lost sight of my goals. The destination is important, but I’ve found that the journey can be just as worthwhile, even if it’s not the quickest way there. Sometimes it’s good to exit the interstate and take the scenic route instead.