Life is a Whirlwind

In 4 weeks, I will be graduating from the University of Oklahoma.
Today, I was initiated into the Honor Society, Phi Kappa Phi, honoring the top 10% of Seniors.
I found out last week that I am being honored with one of Price College of Business's Outstanding Senior Awards.
I will also be graduating with Academic Distinction.

I am not saying these things to gloat, although I am damn proud of myself.
I say these things because I can't believe this has all happened. I can't believe that my days here are almost done. I am so excited to start my new life, but leaving here will be bittersweet. I know that life will never be like this again. However, I love confidently knowing that life will be so much better. Many of my friends are not this lucky, and while I pray for them to find jobs/grad schools/etc., it also serves as a reminder to not take for granted what I have been given.

I am so excited for all of the things I will be able to accomplish this next year as I begin my career. For years I have been living in an environment with competitive people who try to push other people down. I have learned a lot about myself and how to deal with this kind of environment, for which I will be eternally grateful. The lessons I have learned are invaluable. However, I will be moving home to an environment of people that constantly believe in me and inspire me to do great things. And that is what I want to do. I don't know what these "great things" will be, but I know they will happen because I will be surrounded by encouragement. I know this next year will be a big, BIG change, but I know that these changes will enrich my life for years to come.

I swear that it was just a year ago that I was playing on my elementary school playground. But here I am, preparing my cap and gown. Life is a whirlwind.