Good question and my advice is pursue what brings peace to your heart. Read about what the saints and the Bible have to say about marriage and parenthood. Pray and listen to God ask Him what is your will for my life? One vocation should not be pursued because you fear the alternative. For instance I entered the convent right after college and felt in my heart it was where I belonged but after awhile the peace despite prayer and guidance and spiritual direction was no longer there. I realized I was running away from my true vocation of marriage and motherhood because of my misunderstanding of sexuality and intimacy and not realizing that it is a good and holy thing. The sisters actually helped me to understand better the gift of marriage and motherhood. And although they were sad to see me go they were happy that they were able to help form me into the wife and mother I later became. I always tell single people be now what you feel you are called to be by forming yourself into the best person you can be. Practice faith hope and love, poverty, chastity, and obedience to God. I was a year outside the convent traveling working and attending retreats to see what the next step should be. I met my husband through church and still had doubts but we prayed a novena together and through Blessed Mother’s guidance it became clear we were meant to be together. Looking back I see so many signs of Gods hand in everything. Give him first chance since ultimately all relationships whether in a community or with a spouse are meant to lead us closer to God. Give him your whole heart and he will help guide you. I’m praying for you. It’s an exciting and sometimes confusing time of youth but make the most of it:)
