The Power of Time
Time is arguably one of the most important tools we have. When we spend it wisely, it yields the sweetest fruits. The decisions we make, combined with how we use our time, shape the outcomes of our lives.
Despite its immeasurable value, many young adults feel insecure when pondering deep, reflective questions about their time. Questions like: What do I want to do with my life? What do I want to accomplish in the next year? Five years from now?
These and other questions weighed heavily on the minds of Hérica and André, a married couple in the previous semester. They had ambitious goals and dreams for their lives, but despite their busy schedules of studying and working, they longed for something more.
A Leap of Faith
One day, André received a message from a staff member at Cumorah Academy about the program. Intrigued, André shared the information with his wife, and she began researching the academy. “I visited their website and watched their YouTube videos,” says Hérica. “I was especially moved by the video where Patrick and his wife Allyse shared how they started Cumorah Academy, feeling prompted by the Lord and trusting in His guidance.”
After much discussion and reflection, Hérica and André made the life-changing decision to leave their home in São Paulo and move to the Czech Republic. Like many other students, their journey to Cumorah Academy was challenging, involving significant sacrifices—some deeply personal.
“I love music, and I sold all my musical instruments,” says André. He sold his guitars, basses, and other equipment to prepare financially for their move to the campus. “We lived in a close-knit neighborhood with friends, and leaving that behind to attend Cumorah Academy was a big sacrifice,” the couple recalls. They also quit their jobs, taking a leap of faith to pursue this opportunity.
Overcoming Challenges
At Cumorah Academy, we often share stories of the obstacles students face before joining us. These can be financial, social, or even emotional. Many students, like Hérica, experience similar challenges: “I wasn’t confident in my language skills,” she admits. “Even though I’m a self-taught English student, I felt insecure about my ability to communicate effectively at Cumorah.”
As a student of Cyber Security, André chose the Coding Class. There he learned about the principles of programming and elaborated codes regarding computer programs. “I chose this course since I love technology. I came here to expand my skills and knowledge on it.” Hérica chose the Leadership and English Classes.
Despite these initial difficulties, the young couple recognized the Lord’s hand guiding them. During their second interview, the power in their neighborhood suddenly went out. “We had to find another location to complete the interview,” André recalls.
Their sacrifices to reach the campus eventually paid off. Hérica and André are now eager to apply everything they’ve learned. Embracing the Cumorah Academy spirit transforms anyone who is willing to work hard.
A Bright Future Ahead
As mentioned earlier, time is an essential tool for realizing our dreams and projects. The days spent at Cumorah Academy expanded Hérica and André’s skills, instilling greater confidence in themselves.
What did they love most about Cumorah Academy? “For me, the mentors were my favorite part,” says André. “They are inspirational and caring. Having one-on-one sessions with them has been a blessing.” Hérica highlighted that serving others was one of her favorite aspects of the experience. “Serving is wonderful! There are so many ways to serve others at Cumorah Academy.” How thrilled we are to hear this!
Indeed, time is one of the most important tools available to us. It is the cornerstone upon which we build our lives. Quality time, well-spent, brings out the best in us and in the world around us.
Every student leaves our campus with a bright vision for their future. “For me, the greatest lesson I learned is how to design my Life Vision,” shares André. “Now, I know exactly where I’ll be in ten years!” Those ten years will pass regardless, but now André and Hérica know exactly how to make the most of their time and their lives.
They shared their experience in the clip below:
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Photos by Camila Caraveo
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
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