Seventeen years ago I walked onto a college campus just like any other 18 year old, ready to spread my wings. From what I can remember, I don't believe I knew a soul on that campus and that was exactly the way I wanted it. I was filled with anticipation. Excited for the people I would meet, the lessons I would learn, the fun to be had. Looking back, I can't really remember what my expectations were of college, but that doesn't matter now. What I know now is that I was standing on the edge of one of the most important times in my life. I had no idea that within those first few days and weeks I would find the friends that would mold and sustain me for years to come. I do believe that our circumstances were unique and God knew that we all would need eachother in the years to come. The lessons I have learned through these frienships are countless. I have learned what loyalty and faithfulness look like. I have learned what it feels like to be carried by the prayers of true friends. I have learned what Godly encouragement feels like from a loving friend. I have learned that laughter truly is a medicine. I have seen the beauty through the ashes as these beautiful women have walked through loss that no one should ever know. I have learned about romance as we all watched eachother fall in love & marry our God given companions. These friends have always been faithful to remind me that God is good, He is love, He does have a perfect plan, He does answer prayer, & to be thankful at all times.And, now after 17 years, after all the changes we have gone through, the friendships remain. And for that I am more thankful than I can express.
The first weekend of this month, 5 of us were blessed to be able to meet in Minneapolis for a weekend to remember. Not all of these friends that I have described were able to make it, but in so many ways they were there. As we walked those familiar halls and streets it felt like they were there as all the memories came flooding back. To those who were there, and those who weren't, THANK YOU for your friendship! Thank you for the part you each played during some of the most formitive years of my life. Some of my most favorite years of my life. Thank you for the continued friendship and support. You are each a blessing to me and I LOVE YOU!
