Sunday best.

Today was indeed a sunny day. Severe clear, as the local weatherman used to say. My mother repeated the words this morning as we were getting ready. I looked out their bedroom window; it was something I always did as a teen. Everyone was in mom and dad’s bedroom on Sunday morning. The dogs, the cats, and myself. When I looked out their bedroom window, I made the comment of the clear sky. Mom replied back, and I laughed. I would miss next Sunday due to being in Virginia, I leave tomorrow morning due north to take my final exams. I feel like I hear the death bell ringing and I’m marching to my doom. I want this to be over—yet, I don’t. I will miss all my friends, I will miss our spontaneous adventures and expeditions. That is the joy of university; the little surprises that come with every semester. The people you meet. I find it funny how God works.

Coming home for a short break has been interesting. I’ve done something everyday this week just about. Mostly things to do with the outdoors. This whole year has between about finding myself, a revelation. And I feel like I’ve been hiking up the side of a mountain. Weaving in and out of the trees, getting the occasional view of the skyline. I feel like I’m reaching the peak, the air’s colder; a bit breezy, but this is a good sign. You are closer to the top.

But not only have I learned a lot about myself— I also have learned a lot about where I came from. My home; where my roots run so deep, it is impossible to plant the tree somewhere else. The place I’ve always called home is an interesting place now; I see it in a different light. Not a bad light, just a different light. Something I’m not able to describe just yet. I don’t know if I ever will. My home is something that has definitely shaped me. But I also know that if I didn’t move away and go to university, I would never be the person I am currently. Alabama, you set a foundation for my heart, but Virginia filled it. I met God in Alabama, but I built a relationship with Him in Virginia. I had a revelation that never would have occurred in Alabama. My home, my long lost love. You have done so much for me, but not enough. Virginia brought about my Sunday best. The people I’ve met, the opportunities I’ve had. It’s been a beautiful and thrilling whirlwind.