As I'm now a month into college I've have some time to adjust and reflect back on how I really got here. Sure, there's the obvious things like studying and doing my homework and having a good GPA, but more important than that are the people that got me here. I spent much of my time back home not even realizing the people around me were having such a significant impact on my life. I've taken the time this week to observe how these people impact my daily college life and what I've realized has made me especially grateful this week.
I'm as guilty as any young adult for taking advantage of a few things. I didn't think there was a chance in hell I was going to miss my parents, but here I am. I told myself I'd call maybe once every other week; I call every single day. There's something about hearing the excitement in my mom's voice and the pride in my dad's tone that sends me on the rest of my day feeling fearless and untouchable.
My main way of communicating with my siblings is through either text or snapchat, but I cherish every single one. There's something about getting a random meme from my brother or toilet-selfie from my sister that makes me feel more loved than ever.Your siblings are your first friends and even though they're kind of forced to love you and spend time with you, it's still nice to be thought of when you're a good many miles away.
I have two friends and a boyfriend still in my hometown, and I'm thankful for them everyday. I know things get busy and it's super easy to let go of a friendship where you don't see the person daily or as much as you're used to, but these girls have been nothing but supportive of me and have never made me feel forgotten. As for my boyfriend, I feel like I don't have enough words to explain how thankful I am for his support as I'm on this life-changing journey of self-discovery and education. No matter how busy our schedules get, somehow everything turns out okay at the end of each day.
My best friend at another college is having the time of her life and I couldn't be happier for her. While I miss seeing her friendly face in the halls everyday I know that we're both doing bigger and better things. I'm thankful to have a friend that can be so far away but still feel so close. She's the type of friend that I don't have to talk to for a few days or even weeks, but still pick up on our conversation as if we just had it an hour before. Life gets busy and we make new friends, but I've never felt forgotten or replaced. I know that when times are hard and I can't talk to some people in this new place where not everyone knows how crazy I am, she's a Facetime away.
I never imagined missing my family and friends as much as I do. Being apart from them for so long has made me realize how much they all do for me and how much of an impact they have had on my life. So if you're a senior in high school, cherish every moment you have left with the people you love!
