I've never been the type of person who dreads going back to school. Usually, I'm the one with my backpack packed and ready, planner filled out, and I'm taking on the new term with enthusiasm. This year, though, I finally sympathize with those who watch the end of break approach with trepidation. I'm not ready to go back. I don't particularly want to read books, write papers, study concepts, or solve problems. I'm dragging my heels on packing up my car, hoping for some blizzard to blow through the pass and delay my journey, but deep down I know that school is where I need to be.

The reason I'm not wanting to go back is because it's hard. This year has been challenging academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally. It has also produced a lot of growth. This year has been good. That's the thing about hard, it makes the triumphs all the sweeter. I may be feeling like I'm just now starting to get my feet back under me again, but when you're growing, you don't get to wait until you're fully ready, you just have to take it as it comes.

So here's to taking each day as it comes, embracing the challenges, learning from everything, and keeping my chin up.