Reflection

Most of the time I don't like to reminisce because it leads to feelings of sorrow for what once was and is no longer.

But today, I look back into the past year and I rejoice. I rejoice because I have the desire to move forward. To continue. Not to gaze back on what used to be, but to look upon Christ and follow him into the future.

I rejoice because of the friends I've made this year. They have given me the encouragement to let go of the things that hurt me. They've held me when my sin crippled me. They've comforted me when my heart was broken. They motivated me to do everything I can with my life and to live radically for Christ. They've lifted me up and rejoiced with me and they've cried with me. They've accepted me for all of my craziness and weird quirks and never tried to change me. They listened to my ridiculous stories and helped me sift through my wacky emotions. They screamed and giggled with me when my crush asked me on a date. They held my hand when I decided to let that crush go. They accompanied me on random car rides and adventures. They read the Bible with me and prayed with me. They discussed the goodness of God with me. They pondered the mysteries of world and the Gospel with me. They met my parents and my old friends. They loved me. Unconditionally. With grace and mercy. With perfect kindness. With the love of Christ.


My friends have made freshman year of college MUCH more than I ever believed it could be. I look to the past today so that I can see how God has answered my every prayer. I look to the past so that I can compare this day to this same day a year ago when I was sure I would never wake up with joy again. Now I can't remember the last time I was truly unhappy. My heart is full and my faith is strong.

It is a season for rejoicing. And I will look upon my King in awe and wonder as he guides me gently into the secret places of his will.

Today I move out of my dorm. I'm going home. Lord, thank you for how you've carried me. Thank you for your faithfulness to me. I can't comprehend your kindness and love. Your patience with me is incomparable. Today is the last day of freshman year at the University of Arkansas, and I rejoice for what God has done. <3 Oh, How He loves us.