Third time is the charm, right?

My plan was clearly outlined, ready to be executed. Five years and I'd graduate with both a B.S and a Masters. Going to college I never expected I would transfer to a different university once, let alone twice.

Flash forward three years and I'm back in the city I started off in. Transferring is a strange process that can be loaded with a plethora of emotions ranging from confusion to anger, to shame. A kaleidoscope of emotions existing simultaneously.

I started off my college career at UH on the swim team and then managing the team due to injury. I transferred not because I didn't like the school but because an opportunities sprung up elsewhere. So I jumped. I went headfirst and transferred to a school that was a tenth of the size of UH in a town thousands of times smaller than Houston. To say it was a culture shock is an understatement.

My time at Gardner-Webb is painted with memories I'll cherish, but I knew it was time to go. I don't regret transferring. However, it wasn't easy to leave the first time and now with transferring back to UH it sometimes feels like I'm somehow admitting defeat.

Admitting that I wasn't strong enough to keep swimming. Granted, two surgeries and unrepairable damage is a pretty damning prognosis. And regardless of fleeting feelings of defeat, I know the experiences I gained aren't pointless.

Sometimes It's still difficult to see the good in all the change. I was happy both times I felt God urging me to pick up and leave. I was comfortable, life was routine and for the most part, I enjoyed the places I'd chiseled out for myself. I've questioned God greatly throughout this whole process. My mind struggling to comprehend the constant leaving and starting over. He's been my anchor in it all though and leaning on him is where I've found rest.

God was faithful when I first transferred and I know he'll be faithful again with transferring back to UH. I don't understand it, but I trust Him. Trust that his plan goes beyond what I see now. There was a reason for my time at GWU, of that I'm sure. I'm nervous about being back in Houston but I'm incredibly excited at the prospect of being back in this amazing city.

Transferring isn't a bad thing. It's seeing opportunity and following it wherever the constantly changing current of life flows. Just because something changes doesn't mean it's bad. Change isn't bad, it is simply, change.

Wherever you find yourself today, take heart in knowing that the transition to a new school or a new city is always going to be uncomfortable. Don't shy away from the uncomfortableness though, embrace it and use it as a driving force to explore the city and forge connections with people throughout. Be brave, be kind, and above all else, believe that you are capable of making one person's day better.

Smile at strangers and don't be afraid of putting yourself out there, you never know what may happen when you step outside your comfort zone a bit.