Farewell

There were so many things I wanted to say. There were so many stories to tell. I was going to have a roommate periodical - 'jardine tales;' I had so many stories from trips abroad. I went to Prague. But these things always come to mind at the end, don't they? I lost my spring somewhere; the words and the stories stopped flowing out of me. So those stories exist but not to be told, not yet. I think it's time now to write an ending to this chapter -- this beautiful, exciting, challenging chapter.

Three years and a few days ago today, late at night, I found myself, disoriented, in a tiny room in Aberdeen, Scotland. I spent that first night with my winter coat as my duvet and some shirts as a pillow. I wondered in that moment how in the world I had ended up in Scotland. I still have no real idea what led me to Scotland besides whim, but I like to think it was divine intervention.

Over time I came to cherish that country and that people more than I ever imagined. Life in Scotland was not without its struggle; the rugged landscape and temperamental skies do well to reflect the challenges that exist amongst the beauty of life in that country. It was hard and harsh at times, but I see now how good it was -- how good God was. I had the honor to meet (and in most cases to know) this wonderful community, ranging from the grumpy Aberdeen doorman to some of my dearest friends, and I love them all so much -- even that grumpy doorman I could never get to smile.

I will always cherish my memories from that country. I wasn't always sure I would, but, thankfully, I'm finding memories to be like bits of gold -- they are first covered in mud and dirt and sand but with some water (or time, as the metaphor has it) the mud washes away and the Gold stays to be seen and enjoyed. I thank God for such beautiful memories. Memories I know have many parts to play yet.

My final word (besides the quote above) would have to be one of thanks. I have so much gratitude toward all those individuals who made Scotland a second home. And I'm so grateful for the time I got with them, and with Scotland.