I come from a middle class family. Both my parents work and are able to provide me with everything I need and more, but we are by no means rich. As my college journey winds down, I often joke with them about money. “So, when am I getting my trust fund?” I say. They laugh in response.
Having the comfort to come out of school and not worry about money would be amazing, but recently I have had an epiphany. I may not have all the money in the world, but I have something better: my parents' love.
For many, I am sure, it is hard to imagine a life without your parents' unconditional love. But for some this is a harsh reality. The other day I found myself thinking about if I had to pick between all the money in the world and my parents love what would I choose? There was no hesitation in my answer: I would choose my parents every time. I am very blessed because I know that they would do anything for me. They accept me for who I am. They always support me. They help me with any problem. And they put my needs before their own. What more could a girl ask for?
I will admit, sometimes I take that for granted, but I try not to. It is something I cherish and appreciate more than anything. As my time at college comes to an end, I find myself appreciating the little things more and more. I appreciate dancing around the kitchen with my mom, family dinners, and every day I have home.
As an unknown chapter of my life lies before me, I find everything to be fleeting. I feel time speeding up and everything flashing before my eyes. Soon enough I will be leaving both of my homes. Not only will I soon leave the place where I grew up, but I will also be leaving a place that I have learned to call home, the place that I have grown to love and value over the past four years. St. Bonaventure has become just as much a part of me as my real home. This is the place where I met my best friends for life. It is the place where I have danced on tables and my friends have run down Main Street naked. This is a place where I have made so many crazy, wonderful memories.
It is the place that allowed me to find myself.
Leaving is what makes senior year so incredibly hard. It is what makes the thought of graduation unfathomable. Life goes by in the blink of an eye, and it is essential to treasure every moment while you can.
This is why I will love every second of being home and make sure to have way too much fun when I am here. I say go out on Thursdays, drink one too many glasses (read: bottles) of wine, and to dance the night away at the bar.
As college comes to an end, I realize how precious every day is, and I know for damn sure I am not wasting any.
