Last
Friday I woke up in a Simon and Garfunkel kind of mood, craving the
sounds of 'Homeward Bound'. Funny enough that it coincided with the
homecoming atmosphere at Butler. So, as I sat, typing out essays,
reading articles, and thinking over a 'to do' list, I welcomed all the
interruptions inside the university Starbucks and the friendly faces
reminding me why this is a good place to be.
However, it was today when the car door slammed and as we pulled away from Delaware Street, when outside noises had been muted and directions to the airport given, that tears flowed and soon turned into sobs. I felt like I was five again, crying after birthday parties when guests had finally left. The reality of leaving set in and glancing at my bags, I remembered why I dislike packing too much. A carry-on, a day-pack, a purse, and still, I’m looking forward to sending things back with my parents. Within the past week, I probably said goodbye to more people than I know, and to those closest to me, I did so multiple times. I hugged, kissed, danced and did everything I could imagine in Indy before leaving. So as we soar through the sky on our way to Vegas, I leave comforted by the fact that in six months I’ll return to the best group of friends. Maybe I'll continue to live unreserved and months from now, Simon and Garfunkel will come to mind again when Indiana horizons come into view.
Photographed with Allie G., Homecoming Queen Candidate
I've
been riding the emotional high that comes from packing, meeting up with
people, and tying up loose ends. There were still four days before my
departure, within the last week I had made it a point to see those I
care about and, in general, to be as straightforward as possible about
my feelings. Perhaps not completely unreserved, yet more open than
usual. When Steve Jobs passed away and the media referred various quotes
of his, one went along the lines of looking in the mirror and living
every day as if no more days could be lived. More specifically, doing
as one wished. I realize this might be ideal, yet unrealistic. Would
people forego responsibilities for desires? Just a thought. Though, in
my minimized version of openness, I began to pour out my soul to
many-a-friend, soaking up the moments of hugs, home-cooked meals, and
breaking out moves on the dance floor.
Last picture with Katie, Aubrey, and Ali
However, it was today when the car door slammed and as we pulled away from Delaware Street, when outside noises had been muted and directions to the airport given, that tears flowed and soon turned into sobs. I felt like I was five again, crying after birthday parties when guests had finally left. The reality of leaving set in and glancing at my bags, I remembered why I dislike packing too much. A carry-on, a day-pack, a purse, and still, I’m looking forward to sending things back with my parents. Within the past week, I probably said goodbye to more people than I know, and to those closest to me, I did so multiple times. I hugged, kissed, danced and did everything I could imagine in Indy before leaving. So as we soar through the sky on our way to Vegas, I leave comforted by the fact that in six months I’ll return to the best group of friends. Maybe I'll continue to live unreserved and months from now, Simon and Garfunkel will come to mind again when Indiana horizons come into view.
How I packed for 6 months...and planning to downsize post Vegas
No comments:
Post a Comment