July 12th marked the eighth anniversary of me beginning my life in Florida. Just days before I arrived in the sunshine state, I left California on a plane with my sister and a small bag of my belongings. We didn't know that we were leaving for good.
Of course, it wasn't until a month later that we decided we would permanently reside in Florida. And because we never went back before we made that decision, I was never able to say goodbye to some very important people in my life. For instance, my grandma, who went on to be with the Lord a few years ago. Although I have never been good at goodbyes, I still believe that they are important.
And in about a month, I will be saying goodbye to my home now to begin a new adventure. College.
This summer has been filled with all of these greetings and salutations. Hello again to old friends that I haven't seen in a while, goodbye to those who are moving on to do bigger and better things with their lives, and see you later to friends that have already begun their lives in college. I have learned to not take advantage of your time with people because they come and go. With the usual exception of family, people enter and leave our lives to teach us lessons. Whether it's how to love, or how to help someone, they have something to educate us about.
I want to say thank you to everyone that has been a part in my life. As I move on to begin this new journey in my life, I realize that I could not have gotten here by myself. From day one, I have had parents that have always had my back. I am truly blessed to have that. I've had siblings that have always been able to make me laugh. Friends that always offered a shoulder for me to cry on. Teachers who have given their time and knowledge so I was able make scores that would allow me have a variety of options for college. A mentor that has had lunch with me almost every school week for the last three years of my high school career and bestowed wisdom upon me that I needed for life. And every single other person who has made an investment in my future, monetary or otherwise.
I'm excited, but nervous at the same time. Change is not always a bad thing and unlike eight years ago, I'm ready now. Go Noles!
