This week was leavers week – although there were only two designated days for leaving. On Tuesday once all the work was done we spent time sitting around chatting, and sharing out last few moments of college time together. On Wednesday was leavers day we went to the Zoo, had picnic on the downs, and then more eating when we went to Cosmos. Then yesterday evening was the Leavers Meal including speeches by all 10 of the leavers. I have up to now felt fine about leaving college but last night and this morning its hit me I’m not going back now its all over. The strange rituals of sitting in lectures, eating college food, feeling exhausted after an 11hr day on a Wednesday, walking or driving across the downs early in the morning are all a memory. I’m not one to dwell in the past I am looking forward to a new part in my journey in Worcester Park but as that hasn’t really started yet I’m still pulling myself away from this present one. So I’m learning for the first time in my life how to try and be in the present moment and try not to ignore what might be on offer now.
I can’t quite remember who said this to me/ where I read it (anyone can help I’d apprecite it) but it was a great nugget of wisdom. As humans we are either chained to the past worrying about what could have been, or chained to the future worrying what might/could be. When we live in the present we are set free from both the past, and the future.
By being in this in between time neither at college nor somewhere new I’m learning a lot!
I know we talked about this last week, but your reflections here have really helped me again…. living in the present – it’s a slow lesson for me but maybe it’s what the coming year is about!! x
I recall similar feelings when I left college (six years ago now!) – we put so much of ourselves into the experience it can feel very strange to realise it is all over.
Still, you have the joy of NAM (interpret as you will!!) to look forward to. I really valued working with a mentor for the first three years, kept some college links via probationary studies (EMBA are pretty easy going and let us carry on with our old colleges or one of the two they link with, as we preferred) and survived regional reflection groups (!).
You will be a fine minister I am sure and a year from now will have travelled miles further along your own road of faith.
Every blessing as you prepare to move to Worcester Park.