If you would’ve told me 3 years ago that I would be crying literal tears of sadness on my last day of law school, I would’ve said you’re crazy. I now feel a variety of emotions - sadness as I think about this chapter ending, looking back and thinking “what if”, excitement for another fresh start, and nervous about my life that’s about to get really real. But, most of all, I wish I would’ve sat back and appreciated it more. Through the stress, busy days, and late nights, I wish I would’ve taken a moment to appreciate my present phase of life. Why? Because while it did actually go by so fast, I realize that I will never again get that same rush of crushing an all nighter and nailing the test. I will never get that nervous feeling of walking into the first day college classes. It’s almost like I’m saying goodbye to that little girl who had the big dreams of moving to the big city and going to college.
It’s so easy to wish away the uncomfortable phases of life because they’re well, uncomfortable. But, there is so much we can learn about ourselves during those phases and have a sort of appreciation for ourselves as we grow up. Moving forward, I am going to challenge myself to stop, take a moment, and appreciate it, especially when I’m uncomfortable.
The End of a Chapter
“Bittersweet” encapsulates graduation perfectly. A sense of sadness bidding farewell to a familiar and important chapter, yet excitement for what lies ahead. It’s natural to entertain the thoughts of what could have been - different classes or extracurriculars, alternate paths taken. But, it is crucial to recognize that every twist and turn has led us to this moment for a reason. Embrace your journey for what it is and know that each experience has shaped you in unique ways.
Embracing Your Change
Graduation marks both an end and a beginning. Rather than clinging to the comfort of what’s familiar, lean into the discomfort of the unknown. It’s in these moments of discomfort that we discover our true potential and unlock new opportunities for growth. Remember to appreciate these moments of change, for they are shaping our future self.
Moving Forward with Intention
Graduating from high school, college, or graduate school is about more than a diploma, it’s a fresh start. Graduation grants you a blank page to write the next chapter of your life. As you head into this next chapter, set clear goals and meaningful intentions. Whether it’s shedding old habits or pursuing new interests, now is the time to focus on personal development and self discovery. Remember, it’s okay if you don’t have it all figured out just yet. Trust the journey, stay true to yourself, and the rest will fall into place.
To anyone else that may be reading and going through a new phase of life or a graduation of their own, here is my advice: Throughout the excitement of the graduation celebrations, I hope that you feel proud of yourself for this amazing accomplishment. Not just proud to be receiving that piece of paper stating you successfully completed a certain amount of credit hours - but proud of how you were stretched and grown in the last chapter. As you step into the next phase, carry with you the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the memories made. And above all, remember to take a moment to sit back and appreciate the present, whatever your present may be. Even when it is uncomfortable or ugly and you just want to wish it away, don’t. For these are the moments when we see ourselves growing. Embrace and cherish those moments, as they shape you into the person you are meant to be. Congratulations, your journey is just beginning.
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