I don't think I ever quite knew what a bittersweet "goodbye" felt like until I left for my first year of college. There was nothing particularly easy about leaving behind friends that I had made long-lasting memories with, family members and my dogs. During my senior year of high school, all I can remember is counting down the days until I would leave my hometown and all its inhabitants behind; it would be as simple as that. As move-in day drew closer, I soon realized that it wouldn't be easy to leave behind the environment in which I had become accustomed to for so long and start getting used to a new one. However, through the process of saying goodbye to my familiar surroundings, I discovered the silver lining--change is good. Without change taking place throughout our lives, it would be difficult for one to mature and flourish as a being.

Towards the end of summer break, every late-night drive to Cookout and every Star Wars movie marathon with friends seemed more bittersweet than the last. It became to feel more like one last hoorah versus ways we would spend our carefree summer nights. Right up until move-in day, none of us wanted to think about the inevitable expiration date placed on our summer endeavors, and the fact that this would be our last time seeing each other altogether for quite a long period of time. However, I don't think it took very long for us to embrace the change. Distance from those you love and care about sounds like an absolute nightmare to most, but in reality, it only makes you genuinely appreciate those you are fortunate enough to have in your life who care about and love you back.

Everything I left behind at home, whether it be what I grew up with or what I discovered two days before I left for college, will never go under appreciated. This type of change is truly what harbors wise-ness and growth in a person. Being away from those you love is something that will never be easy or become easy, but sometimes, one has to see what is on the other side in order to appreciate what he or she already has. Experiencing new experiences in life also makes one more prepared for other unexpected changes that could happen at any point in one's lifetime. Though I have realized that change is vital and welcomed into my life, it will undoubtedly feel so good to be home in the near future.