It goes without saying that each season of our lives is different from the other seasons of our lives. The season that I just left as a college student is incomparable to anything I had endured in the past or will endure in the future. However, I find myself comparing my current season to my life as a college student. My college friends lived walking distance from me; all of my friends here live at least a fifteen-minute drive from me, and we all have jobs that prevent us from seeing each other. The students at my school understood me because most of them were my age and studied under the same professors; when I ask people here, “You know what I’m saying?” they say, “Um, no.”
When comparing my life now to my life a few weeks ago, there is a temptation to want to go back. Sure, I am moving forward, but my heart desires to return to my old ways. Looking at the way things used to be, it seems so much easier than what I am living now. Although it was difficult, there was structure, and I liked the work that I had to do as a college student.
On the other hand, there are things about my life as a college graduate that is better than before. I am glad that I do not have to pay college tuition anymore. I have more options at mealtimes. I have more space in my room than I had in my college dorm that I had to share with another person (even though I loved my roommate!). I have more freedom with my schedule now that I don’t have papers to write.
Despite the fact that it is tempting to go back to our old seasons, the reality is that we cannot get those seasons of our lives back. Instead, we need to move on. Leave what’s behind, behind you, and cling to what is ahead of you. Instead of comparing your previous situation to what you have now, learn to appreciate your current situation.
One thing that has helped me appreciate any season of my life has been writing thank you notes. Whether I actually give them to people I appreciate or hold on to them to remind me of their kindness, they allow me to process the positive influences that these people have had on me. Gratitude gives me hope for the future.
This blog post ends my series on transitions.
Elisabeth Warner 