Why I Do What I Do

3 weeks ago, I reviewed a personal statement for a prospective Pharmaceutical Science MSc student. Here’s my original Tweet on it

I almost refused the request due to time constraints at the time as I was preparing for a leadership conference. But there was no way I would turn down this opportunity to add value. I met P (name withheld) in Uxbridge, London during my 1-year placement some years ago; there I led a group of high school and A-Level youngsters (we were known as “Emerge“) on a yearlong journey of discovering their life purpose and not wasting their lives. P was one of them. He was young, calm but always came across as one with a clear vision for his life. And he does!

6 days ago, I received an email from him that read thus:

“Dear Sir,

I just want to show my appreciation for your help in reviewing my personal statement.
I am pleased to inform you that I have been granted an unconditional offer on the MSc programme.
Thank you for your teachings back in Emerge Youth Group. Your words back then still continues to teach me.

Kindest Regards,

P”

Nothing else gives me greater joy! Something crucial struck me while I reviewed his personal statement weeks ago: the intensity of his passion to use his knowledge from the MSc programme to change lives. I am praying for him that he delivers on that promise. That’s my challenge to him. And I trust that by God, he will.

This is why I do what I do; taking every opportunity to add value to people’s lives and seeing the results. It’s a humbling experience.

Make the best of your own opportunities to be everything God created you to be and to add value to others along the way.

Don’t waste your life.