Unbelievable... not that I ever actually thought I may not graduate, but I still can hardly believe that this day is here now. High school graduation was one thing, but college graduation was always the lofty, far-off goal to which most all of my classmates and I attained, but it nonetheless always seemed so far off. But it's here. Tomorrow. Well, actually today, given the time. It's surreal.
And most of all, I'm just struck by the mixture of emotions. I cannot remember the last time I had this diverse and extensive a collection of emotions all at the same time. I am relieved to be done with student teaching. I am happy to be graduating. I am proud to be graduating magna cum laude, even if I didn't follow through with the Honors College. I'm happy to be moving forward. I'm optimistic about my job. I'm sad that I'm going to be leaving friends (or, more accurately, I'm sad that my friends are going to be leaving me). I'm nostalgic about the times we have had together. I'm reminiscent of the activities and fun we've shared that will not happen again. I'm apologetic for the times I've screwed something up (and Lord knows there have been plenty of those times). I'm humbled by the presence of such fantastic friends. I'm repentant to God for the way I've acted at times over these four years. Most of all, I'm just a bit stressed over the enormous transition, milestone, and turning point that is graduation.
I pray for the Lord's guidance moving forward, as the inevitable dispersion of friendships and relationships takes place and the wonderful, if not uncertain, new chapters in our lives begin.
