The end is near.

No, this is not some doomsday prophecy. I am referring to the end of my time as a college student.
I am now one of the “Old” College guys. A seasoned veteran well trained in the art of navigating Gainesville, UF, and ISIS (UF Students know what I’m talking about).

College has been an adventure. I came to UF and was uncertain about if I made the right choice, but God showed me very early on that I was in the right place. I have vivid memories of walking around campus during my first semester here (Summer B) and thinking to myself “This is where I am supposed to be”.

God gave me peace about my decision.Everything from then on was a whirlwind.

Highlights include-
Moving out with Justin and Kyle.
Watching UF during some of their glory years.
Watching Tim Tebow and Percy Harvin.
Late night trips to Whataburger.
Late night theological discussions.
Late night man talks. (Apparently the male brain functions best late at night, at least mine does)
Leaving for Basic Training
Coming back from Basic Training
Upward Sports
Westside Flag Football
Asa moving in.
ROTC
Academic Success.
Completing Business Finance (Hardest class ever)
Bible study lead by Asa and J.C. 
Internship at the O Dome

and now finally Graduation and Commissioning.

College is so much more than an academic education. I would argue that the real education is outside of the classroom. Learning how to live and function away from home. Actually growing into an “Adult”. 
I’ve learned so much during my time here, it is hard to even put it into words. When I reflect on the lessons that I’ve learned, three lessons come to forefront.

1- People Always Matter Most 

This truth is reinforced time and time again in my life. It is certainly Biblical because we know the value of each person as a child made in the image of God. But I think about it in this way- My best memories have little to do with where I was or what was going on, they have to do with the people I was with. The 08 championship season was awesome because I went to games with my family and friends. Moving out was awesome because I was moving in with some of my best friends. Late night talks were great not just because of the content, but because of the guys I was sharing the issues of life with. (You get the idea)

2- The Impact of A Lukewarm Faith

I would describe my faith as lukewarm for parts of my time in college. Going through the motions so to speak. Needless to say, the impact of a lukewarm faith is not positive. I feel like I wasted so much time. This is one of the disappointments of my time in college, but I am thankful that I learned this lesson so I can guard against a lukewarm faith in the future.

3- Time is Valuable 

The final lesson seems to be a no brainer, but it really isnt. I dont think we truly grasp how valuable time is. How precious the moments with friends and family are. Etc.
In my case, it took the loss of my mom to drive this point home. Fortunately, I was prepared for her death. But that isnt always the case. The departure of close friends, the end of a chapter in my life.. There is no preparing for that. The only thing we can do is be intentional every day about making memories and realize the value of time.

Thats all for now.