Looking Back

Today was the big day we've all been waiting for: LDOC (Last Day Of Classes). Celebrations were rocking on strong this afternoon, and for good reason, but I can't help but feel the pangs of sadness. Where on earth did the past year fly off to?

Looking back, I can't help but smile. Remembering the fresh-off-to-college version of myself on move-in day makes me laugh, thinking about the nights I spent in tears those first few weeks wondering if I would ever find friends. And now, here I am with not enough days left to make some last-minute lunch dates with my new girlfriends. I'm struggling to think of how I'm going to spend my time this summer when I realize that these girls don't live just a couple floors above or across the quad, but that they're a two and a half or four hour drive across the state. Funny how things change.


It's crazy how different things have turned out here during these last few months. God has blessed me in so many ways, by bringing me to the Summit Church, plugging me into Cornerstone campus ministry, and surrounding me with uplifting, wholesome women who are chasing after Him in ways I wish I could. His graciousness continues to radiate through every aspect of my life- my schoolwork, my other clubs and activities on campus, my family, and my walk with Him. Looking back on the past year, I can reminisce the fun things I've done, but nothing compares to the awesome grace God has to reveal Himself to me. I have learned so much about the character and heart of God, and am so thankful to know what it means to live in daily dependence upon Him (not that I live that way every day; I'm far from perfect). But really, God's mercy and grace is such an amazing gift; He is the one who gives us the desires to know Him more and seek Him. Being able to look on the past year and know that it went perfectly according to God's perfect plan is so humbling. And it makes me that much more excited to honor Him with my future.

So, as I wrap up my own LDOC celebrations (sitting in the library studying for finals, anyone?), I can't help but feel it's bittersweet sting. I can't believe I'm almost no longer a freshman. I'm so sad to say goodbye to my dear friends for the summer. I'm only imagining how fast the next three years are going to fly by. But, I'm looking forward into summer, into the old friends I'll be able to catch up with again, and into the excitement of another year at Carolina in the fall.