By Hannah Sargent
As I reflect on what I’ve learned from Taylor, I can’t help but be overwhelmed with gratitude; I recognize that not everyone has had or will have my experience, but I thank God continuously for the plentiful joy, beauty and growth I experienced at Taylor. It was fertile ground for me, and I am beyond grateful for the many mentors, professors, friends and experiences that I had while at our sweet university, amidst brilliant sunsets and quaint brick buildings.
This being said, here is the advice I would give myself if I could do it over:
home is so much more than a place. It is a laugh that becomes so familiar you know when to expect it. It is knowing which stall you’ll always use to shower in. It is knowing how to get to the grocery store without a GPS. Home is where the Lord leads you.
Smiling at someone when you walk by them on the sidewalk is never a bad thing. It’s okay if they don’t know you! Never be embarrassed because you were kind.
You will never regret a few extra moments with people you love. Committing to putting down your phone and being present is worth so much more than whatever is on your Instagram feed. Dinners at the DC make some of the best memories.
The Lord does not leave us, and His presence is not fickle or dependent on our performance. He is present in the still of nighttime snowfalls, during chapel worship and while you are finishing that paper by Christmas lights. He is present in your anger, tears and frustration.
Academics are a gift, not a burden. Your professors are brilliant and want to help you grow; approach your work with an attitude of worship and living sacrifice, and the Lord will bless it.
Love is beautiful, humbling, breathtaking and you will learn about it in millions of moments from hundreds of people. Soak it up. And love others, too. To love is truly the best thing you do.
