Community

So. I just watched this: http://vimeo.com/23932224

I also added a countdown onto my desktop until move in day.  ((Right beside my countdown to the last day of work and my first day of new work.))










So. What's the point of this?

I found a love, a community, a sense of belonging at JMU.  It took me a while to do it, but it happened.  And it's definitely not the same now that I'm gone.

I've got people I hang out with here at home, but it's not the same.  Though, things are starting to get better with some people (and that I'm glad of), but my best friends are elsewhere.

So much happened at JMU.  It's basically defined me, changed me, grew me, matured me, made me who I am today, and I wouldn't trade a single shitty day I had there for anything in the world.

I think this is something everyone needs to experience.  At JMU?  No.  It's not for everyone.  At college? See previous answer.  But everyone needs to feel a sense of belonging somewhere.  If that's where you are now, keep it up and make it better!  Evolve it and go deeper with the people you're around.  Learn to love them differently.  Love them soul deep.

I have a friend.  She used to blog and blog and blog about a certain place she has dreamed of going forever.  Honestly, it was depressing and annoying at some points (no offense, M).  But, now that it looks like it could come to fruition, I'm excited for her.  No, we're definitely not the closest of friends (in fact, I haven't seen her in quite a while), but I'm glad for her.  I want her (you) to have an experience that shows you who you are.  Somewhere away from Roanoke.  Somewhere new.  Somewhere that is going to make you happy.  (The following is specifically directed toward M, but it can apply to others too; just fill in the blanks, ja?).  You've had this dream of going to the city for a long time.  I think you have an idea of what it's going to be like and who you're going to be once you're there.  Take this advice though: if/when (because I don't really know the status at the moment) you transfer to school up there, approach it with complete openness.  Preconceived notions and ideas about the place can lead to failure and sadness and missed opportunities.  Approach it with the idea that you're there and it's going to be awesome!  Take what comes your way and let it make you.  If it doesn't turn out the way your blogs want them to, that's okay.  You're going to have an experience.  What more can you ask for?  It's exciting!  Basically, get ready to grow, because if you let yourself it's going to happen.

Anyway.  This is all kind of coming out of left field, but it's true.  Everyone needs to experience a sense of togetherness.  It makes you whole.  Let it happen!

And I'll end with this: James Madison, you were my home for 4 years. You taught me so much. Most of all, you taught me to love everyone, including myself, and to accept love given out by others.  I thank you for that, and I can't fucking wait to come back.