I clung desperately to the neck of my horse as it rampaged down a steep hill! The left rein dangled freely inches beyond my outstretched hand…

The power and aggression within this beast came as a complete surprise. I never sensed it while I had the reins securely pulling on its neck. But as soon as that left rein slipped from my wrist, the horse recognized my lack of control and took complete advantage of my weakness.

The same can be true when we say good-bye to high school and approach the college or university atmosphere. The parental reins get dropped. Teenagers look forward to the typical college life: parties, late nights, freedom and new responsibilities. The choice we face at this turning point is to continue in the ways of our parents or to run wild like the horse I was riding.

Opportunities to run wild in college are easily found, especially in some of the most popular and prestigious colleges. It comes down to a true test of character to see if the upbringing that we've been subject to for about 18 years has had any lasting effect. As easily as we move out, we can choose to change our character and become a new "free" moral agent.

I was first able to experience independence during a two-week summer journalism workshop on a state-run college campus. I found that even though it was the summer session, the party life was ready to test the limits.

After my first year of college I decided to attend Ambassador Bible Center (ABC) this past fall. ABC provides an ideal situation to help maintain my faith. However, I've come to realize that the temptation to be social and forget sleep exists everywhere—regardless of where I attend school during the day. I learned that I need to exercise discipline or classes would simply pass by without my full attention.

While it might seem exciting to move out for the first time, the responsibilities often seem overwhelming if you haven't prepared for the transition. Taking the time at home to develop solid character allows for a smoother, less drastic shift to higher education. Creating positive habits for school and setting guidelines for yourself are particularly important prior to being let loose on the world.

Positive habits can include establishing a defined spiritual life—having set times for prayer, study of the Scriptures and reflection. Although we might be physically moving out of our parents' control, we still have a Father constantly with us who offers His guidance if we seek it.

The guidelines we set for ourselves are typically defined by our religious beliefs and moral standards. These are often engrained in us as children by our parents, but we must make the true standards our own. Nobody will be at college making sure we go to church, avoid evil or use correct judgment.

Being stable in our routines, growing in character and following the teachings of our parents before living on our own are not only beneficial for us but also pleasing to God. Building that foundation helps us to stand strong and rein ourselves in when circumstances entice us to try running wild. VT