Maggie's Semester Reflections

It’s so crazy to see this semester has almost come to an end. There are only three weeks left of school before Christmas break. I remember in the very beginning thinking how different things would be four months down the road. In some ways, things are extremely different but in other ways things are still the same. I don’t drive a car around, I don’t have my family close by, and I am in a constant state of wondering if my homework assignment that I turned in online fully uploaded. However, I am also living in one of the most beautiful states in the country (with the most perfect weather), I have made so many new friends that I know will be lifelong, and I’ve had so much good coffee in the last three months it’s unbelievable. 

 

I’ve transitioned from having seven classes a day to having just one and I can say it’s much better. In theory, it seems that I would have lots of extra time because I have less classes, but in college there is so much to do all the time. You also see people everywhere you go; whether that’s from your room to class or to the Caf or to the library you are bound to say hi at least to one person. While it’s super exciting to see someone you know every time you leave your dorm, it’s also important to find rest. 

I would consider myself an extrovert because I genuinely love being around people. But, I also need to have alone time to recharge so I can be fully present with those who I choose to spend time with. This can be hard, especially because most of us all have roommates so it can be challenging to have alone time in your room when you share it. 

I think something that God has been trying to show me is the importance of rest. Not only have I realized how bad I am at it, but I have also seen that not resting only leads me to perform worse. Whether that comes to participating in class, doing my work well, or even just my day to day mood, a lack of rest affects it all. Managing Torrey, general classes, work, friendships, and trying to stay in shape has been harder than I ever imagined. But through this struggle, I will make sure to make use of my holiday breaks. In fact, I plan on doing pretty much nothing (which is contradictory to my nature) in order that I may refuel and refocus. For our Torrey reading, we have been reading the Pentateuch for the last part of our semester. Something that continually stands out to me is God’s call for his people to respect the Sabbath. In some cases, the Lord even says that death is the consequence for this disobedience. It’s funny how in today’s culture the talk about the Sabbath is usually thrown under the rug and is counted not as important as other commandments of the Lord. Well, I am here to tell you that it’s a commandment for a good reason. In order for us to happy lives we need to be well rested. Like there are times to be happy and times to be sad, there are also times to be active and times to rest. 

So, as I look back on this semester, I will remember how exciting all the new experiences were. But, I will also remember how there were times I truly felt burnt out. Therefore, as I prepare to go into next semester, I will be intentional in fulfilling the Sabbath rest. And by doing so, I will be able to have the energy to be more purposeful in my work, overall health, and in my friendships. 

Til next time,

Maggie :)