TGA - The Global Achievers Issue 1/2022 | Page 66

based system because I had clocked 40 years of age, meaning my chances of getting an invitation to apply for a skilled migration visa was near impossible.

 

I felt so distressed that it was evident on my face. My wife who hitherto had hardly seen me low-spirited knew something wasn't right. This was a visa I had pursued for 5 years and just got enough points weeks ago to get an invitation, and all of a sudden, a change in my age came to shatter my dreams.

 

I was so perplexed as things looked hopeless and I just didn't know what to do next. I had written English Language proficiency tests three times, paid for skills assessment, an international credentials evaluation and many more; only to get to this point where things were looking bleak.

 

While praying about my situation one night I heard something I wasn't expecting, which I'm sure was God's Holy Spirit telling me I had a problem with discouragement; that I did not know how to handle temporary setbacks, that I easily lost hope in trying moments.

 

I was shocked because He led me through memory lane when I threw in the towel in the midst of severe challenges, and I knew instantly that it was true. Two main areas that came to mind that night were academics and dating. I couldn't believe God was also mindful of my dating and academic struggles! So what's next?