So yesterday I graduated from college. Crazy, huh? I don't think it hit me until just now that my university years are over. Driving back to my apartment tonight, I felt like I needed to write about my thoughts. This is the only time in my life I can say "I just finished my undergraduate experience" and feel what I'm feeling. At the moment, I'm a bit melancholy (yet again, Nate :p). There are certain things about my college years that I wish I could change. Fortunately, there is a great deal more that I would not alter in the least bit. A few reflections I have:
I wish I would have spent more time with friends. For quite a while I mismanaged my time, not utilizing it wisely. Now that I see the immense crowd of incredible people that surrounded me for four years. I want to make up for that.
As I sit in my apartment, I look around. So much of my life, so many transitions, have occurred while living here. Mandy and I moved in after two years of living on campus. Excited about the last two years of college, we jumped in head first. From losing loved ones to taking new paths, we experienced some pretty crazy changes. At times we both thought life had chewed us up and spit us out. Thankfully blessings came from insane situations. I've grown up quite a bit, realizing the strength God provides. It's all ended up just fine. :)
Now it is time to be a "big kid". I will now switch sides of the desk. Unbelievably excited about this fall, I know I have much to learn. I will be working long hours and losing some sleep, but it will be worth it. Every day I will come home knowing that I have chosen a wonderfully rewarding career that makes up for any frustrations that may arise. I am honored to be trusted with such an enormous responsibility and will not let anyone down.
My life has come to a point that I never expected. If you would have told me two years ago that I would have just shared a delicious dinner with the best family (and boyfriend) in the world, started preparing for my first classroom, uploading pictures of graduation celebrations, and packing to move back to my hometown, I would have laughed. I am absolutely in awe of how fortunate I am to be in the presence of phenomenal people that have each changed my life in very specific ways. Within the next few days/weeks I want to personally let everyone know how thankful I am for their place in my crazy chaos known as daily life. As for now, just know this. I love you all. :)
From spinal surgery to first words (and last), this townhouse has seen some crazy times. Sure I've cried so hard I could barely breathe. Other times I smiled, speechless at the beauty of life's unbelievable amazing-osity. Yes, I did just invent a word. :p It is just that good. I don't want to ramble, but I just wanted to let anyone reading this know that I appreciate any prayers you are willing to send up. This next year will be one of the most challenging of my life. However, I know with the help of my family, friends, and most importantly the grace of God, I will be just fine. I am here for anyone who needs me, in any way shape or form. Please let me know if I can help and pay back those who gave me so much during college. I am truly humbled. <3
