I entered the seminary at the age of 36. This meant, I had many years of discernment whether to enter or not. Of course, I asked for signs. Looking back, there were some signs that were given, there were some signs that were not given and there were some signs that I did not notice.

Certainly, all of us have asked for signs, especially when there are big decisions to be made:

• “Lord, if I get the visa, that is the sign for me to migrate”
• “Lord, if he comes in a blue shirt tomorrow, that is the sign I will marry him”
• “Lord, if I do not get the promotion, then it is a sign that I will move to another company”

In the Gospel, Jesus is often asked to prove he is the Messiah, such as when the Pharisees asked for a sign. Yet, Jesus knew the hardness of their hearts. Even after all the signs like miracles, no amount of proof would not suffice.

Hence, three things we remember when making a decision.

• First, God has a plan for each and every one of us. Hence, aside from signs, look at the events in our lives – good and difficult. As the saying goes, “God whispers when times are good and shouts when times are difficult.”
• Second, ask for advice from god-fearing people. We may have biases, we may have blind spots, we may need another person’s point of view. This is when other people’s guidance and advice come in very handy.
• Third, prayer. There is a saying, “Be still and know that I am God,” When we are in prayer, we do not change God’s will. We get to know the will of the Lord.

Eventually, when we make the decision, no matter how difficult or seemingly impossible, remember there will always be peace. This is the greatest sign that you have made the right decision.