Sometimes nostalgia hits in stages. It really started a year ago when I took my final exam as a junior. Senior year had officially started - the beginning of the end. Then came the last first day of class. Then the last first football game. The last last football game. The last fall semester. The last Christmas break. The last Spring Break. Then there was the day our 100 day countdown began, which today marked the end. A few days ago I went to my last class of college. Then we opened our freshman year time capsule. Then came the day I took my last final. And today after commencement, I become a college alumnus.
Everyone always says that college is a special time, and everyone is right.
If I could sum up the last four years of my life in one word, it would be Love. An odd summary, perhaps, but the best one that comes to mind. I had no idea what I was getting into when I moved to Athens four years ago. But the Lord knew exactly what He was doing. He introduced me to Liz and Anna very quickly, girls to whom I credit saving my life freshman year. Then there was Tim and Jeff, two amazing guys who kept us laughing till 3 AM every night.
I came to college not really knowing who I was. Sometimes I wonder if in four years, I'll think the same thing about present me. But I have learned a ton. The friendships I gained have become the hardest, and yet most joyful and precious thing I possess. Jesus became real to me, and I know that He's alive. I have danced, I have climbed, I have road tripped, I have taken tests, I have written papers, I have laughed till I cried with my roommates, I have felt alive and free. And it only gets more so every day.
It's basically impossible to put college into words. But I thank the Lord every day for the way He planned it. I am absolutely and undeservedly blessed.
So why do I write this? I guess my purpose is, as with all things, to give the glory to Him. I have had an incredible, incredible four years. Hallelujah to Him. John 10:10. He came so that we may have life and have it to the full. Amen. I am loved. I am loved. I am loved. So bring on life after college - I think it will be even sweeter than now. If He is there, I want to be there.
See ya UGA. It's been real.
