Several weeks ago I was thinking ahead to the idea of graduating. I was excited to finish school and begin exploring other parts of life, but the idea of leaving friends and SPU behind made me upset. I was finally making really good friendships here. I was sad that we would all be saying goodbye at graduation, and going our separate ways.
Dr. Martin’s letter in the commencement program said that we would all have different paths than the people sitting next to us. And that is exciting. SPU has prepared us all to go out and have very different and amazing lives. When my roommate Kara read that line by Dr. Martin she leaned over to me during graduation and said, “except for us”. I thought it was funny. She was right; we have plans to share many adventures in the future, so our paths will be very similar for a while, but not the same. Every experience changes us individually and twists our paths in different ways. Change is not a bad thing, it is just a part of the way we grow into who we are meant to be.
My life and the rest of the SPU community were forever changed last week, as we experienced a great tragedy at our school. Out of fear, hurt, and sadness we came together and we became stronger as a community. We were there to support each other every minute through the shock and pain. And it was in these moments that my fear of saying goodbye at graduation left. I realized we were all going our separate ways, but we will always be there for one another.
As said before each of our paths may be different, but they are more intertwined than we know. They will overlap again, and when they do we will share stories of where we have been – our triumphs and heartaches. This is not goodbye; it is a new chapter and a new beginning for all of us. The Class of 2014 is strong and united. I am blessed to be a part of it and of the SPU family.
The new perspective I have from recent events has made me value and appreciate the people around me so much more. Life is short, don’t waste time being upset with the people you love. Forgive quickly so there is more time to spend enjoying time together. Life is short and precious; have fun doing the things you love, with the friends you love.
Right now I love living in Seattle, not wearing shoes and being a little crazy as I love my life. Yesterday I ran through the fountain at the Seattle Center after graduation. The Seattle Times even captured a picture of me under the fountain spray. Here’s the link! They have many fun pictures from graduation!
I am so excited for the future. I am looking forward to seeing where my classmates and I end up. I am thankful for every minute of life and cannot wait for more barefoot adventures!
What are some of your thoughts about graduation, new beginnings, loving life or embracing the future?
Tsveti says
I love the way you write. Congratulations on your graduation. We are so proud of you and good luck with everything. Can’t wait to see you in July.
Rebecca says
Thank you Tsveti! Can’t wait to see you and your cute family!
Carla says
Great post! Congratulations on your graduation. You have so many great opportunities ahead of you. Enjoy every minute. 🙂
Rebecca says
Thanks Carla! I am excited for the road ahead!