Now that Miss America is just around the corner, so many people want to know what I’m doing to prepare, how I’m feeling (am I anxious? Nervous? Excited? Scared?) And truth be told, I think anyone would be anxious, nervous, excited and scared with one of their biggest dreams less than a month away. But I’m not nervous or anxious about becoming Miss America…sure I’m nervous about not knowing what the week will be like, anxious to put my hard work into practice…but never about the results at Miss America. My mom and dad raised me with the belief that anything worth doing is worth doing right, and if I truly give it my all then I should never be disappointed with the outcome. They also raised me to put my faith in God and His will for my life. These past few months in preparation for Miss America, one verse stays with me the most:

“Before I formed you in your mother’s womb, I knew you. Before you were born, I set you apart. I appointed you to be a prophet to the nations.” -Jeremiah 1:5

While this verse is directly speaking to Jeremiah, and not me, I have to believe that it is true for me as well that God knew me before I was born, as well as the purpose he has set me apart for. Why should I be nervous that the outcome would be anything less than the amazing plan He has for my life? Of course I would LOVE to be the next Miss America, and I dream about having such an incredible opportunity…but just like at Miss Oklahoma, if it is His will for my life then it will be amazing, and if it isn’t His will to serve as Miss America, I’m going to be thankful that I have another 6 months to represent and serve the Great State of Oklahoma!

Another thing I’ve heard quite a bit recently is: “I bet you are tired of signing autographs/taking pictures…” And I can honestly tell you, I’m not tired of it at all!! For one short year I will be able to wear the crown and sash of Miss Oklahoma, and for only one year can I sign “Betty Thompson, Miss Oklahoma 2011.” It was my dream to have this job and I’m going to soak in every moment and every day of it because I know that in the blink of an eye, I’ll be crowning a new Miss Oklahoma. I am truly blessed to live this life!