Again

It seems like yesterday I was saying goodbye to my friends and family as I headed off on a new adventure to a new school in a new state where I knew no one. It was hard being the first to leave. The first to initiate goodbye when the time came.
I didn't cry because I was scared and I didn't cry because none of my friends would be joining me.
I cried because I was worried.
I was worried for what I might miss.
What if something terrible happened to the ones I was leaving? I would not be right by their side.
Needless to say, God is so gracious and allowed me to adjust well to my new life. The things I was fearful would take place either didn't or were not as bad as I expected. In fact, I began to be OK with the idea of not returning.
But God had a different plan in mind...
Here I am today in the same situation as one year ago. Thankful for the opportunity to go to yet another school, alone, in another state. Yes, I am so sad about leaving my family and friends, but this time I have a peace.
Many things have changed since one year ago. I am so grateful that I now know more than ever who will be there for me through thick and thin no matter what the distance. God has graciously provided a way for all my worries I had last year to fall away. Amen!
But that doesn't mean this year will be a piece of cake.
Not by a long shot.
This year will bring different lessons. A whole new season that I am eagerly anticipating to see unfold. In every joyous and grievous situation, the Lord never ceases to show me His undying love for such a sinner as I.
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Psalm 9:1-4, 9-12

I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will recount all of Your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and exult in You; I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High.

When my enemies turn back, they stumble and perish before Your presence. For You have maintained my just cause; You have sat on the throne, giving righteous judgment...

The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know Your name put their trust in you, for You, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You.

Sing praises to the LORD, who sits enthroned in Zion! Tell among the peoples His deeds! For He who avenges blood is mindful of them; He does not forget the cry of the afflicted.