Surprises

I LOVE creating surprises for other people, but when it comes to me, I like to know where we’re going and what I need to wear. So, when I imagined my proposal, I always thought my future fiancé would tell my mum or sister that he was planning on proposing. Then, in an ideal world, they would sneakily tell me to be ready and I would magically have my nails done, hair curled and makeup applied for every date we had until he popped the question.

However, what I am learning in this life is that surprises happen, some good and some bad, but surprises are always unexpected and you can’t plan for them. It’s the nature of them, apparently. So when my fiancé got down on one knee, I legitimately had no idea what was going on. I responded to, “will you marry me?” with a stunned, “are you sure?” It was a bit of a mess - not what I had in mind for my proposal and I certainly did not expect it, but it was also one of the best moments of my life. I stood there in front of this person that I loved, completely me. Frizzy hair, makeup-less and no fancy nails to boot, and he still wanted to marry me! Vanity aside, this man has seen me at my best and my worst, and has still chosen to walk this life with me. That’s a pretty good surprise. 

As I reflect on my proposal story, it makes me think of my faith journey. I remember learning here at Avondale School as a student that Jesus loved me no matter what, but hearing it and knowing it are two different things. I remember one day sitting in a school chapel and realising, with surprise, that Jesus actually loves me. Flaws and all, He loves me. Talk about a fantastic surprise.

Surprises. Life is full of them and my life is now even more full of them because of my choice in future husband. But I’m learning that surprises don’t always have to be feared, they can be good. I’m learning to be delightfully surprised at the little things, like co-workers who care about each other and a school full of students who keep us on our toes with their quick wit and funny life anecdotes. 

I’ve been so happily surprised about how well the Avondale School community loves and embraces their people. It is my hope that you are delightfully surprised by this community too. We love that you’re here.

Pr Miki Truscott

Associate Chaplain