It's crazy how fast it came and went! Ive waited 5 years to walk across the stage and get my diploma. Little did I know 5 years ago that it would take me an extra year, that I would be receiving a BSN degree, and that ahead of me would be a journey leading me back to Florida where I will begin graduate school in the fall.
Along with my family from South Carolina and Oklahoma, both of my grandfathers, some family friends and my parents here to celebrate, I didn't realize just how much this day and weekend really meant.
Friday night I was able to participate in one of the most special ceremonies I have ever been a part of. Pinning is a ceremony done in the nursing field and this is considered a " right of passage" that dates back several years. I knew 3 years ago that because my mom is a nurse that she would be able to pin me. I waited till a month before the ceremony to tell my mom that she would be pinning me. What a great night it was! No doubt a moment to forever be remembered.
Saturday morning arrived rather early and of course it was raining outside! Graduation got pushed back an hour but that just left time for Anna, Andrew, and myself to have breakfast and enjoy some time before the mad rush began. The sun came out no doubt and it was hot but it ended up being a beautiful day and a great ceremony.
As I prepared to get out of my line and walk across the stage to get my diploma for the few minutes I had, I felt sad, overwhelmed, proud and accomplished all at one time. Sad that my journey at Trevecca is over, overwhelmed at the fact that it's my turn to step into the real world and I don't know many details, proud that I have family, friends, and an amazing boyfriend that I had there to support me, and accomplished as I spent the last 5 years working hard, staying up late, studying till I thought I couldn't do it anymore and now I had accomplished what I came for.
While I still have not had time to completely take it in, I am so incredibly thankful for the 4 years I spent at TNU. I know doubt hade some of the best days of my life, I found my calling and had the opportunity to safely explore whatever the Lord might have for me, I got to travel for 3 years and do what I love, I made lifelong friendships, and I met my best friend and the man of my dreams.
It literally brings tears to my eyes just thinking of everything the Lord has done in my life in the last 4 years. This was an incredible and memorable weekend no doubt and as I am finishing this chapter of my life and beginning a new one, I will continue to remember Gods faithfulness to me up to this point and hold onto this truth as He is ahead of me even now,
Thank you to everyone who made this weekend so special!!
It indeed was a moment in time.... The whole weekend was a just a "snap shot" of how much support and love that God has blessed you with.
ReplyDeleteI so proud of all of your accomplishments, but more than that, I am proud of your heart and all that you "stand for." Thank you for giving all of us a "reason to celebrate." :)