Distance.

Distance is something that has been on my mind as of late. In high school, I think I equated this word to literal distances in terms of track, aka the shorter the better for this guy. Now as I inch closer to the end of my college career, distance has many connotations for me. A common saying is “can you go the distance?” as in can you hack it? Lately I have found myself wondering this very question in regards to my upcoming travels and unknown future plans. Will I be successful in moving my life temporarily to Spain? Sure I studied abroad there twice, but big freaking deal! Most academically competitive institutions require undergrads to study abroad in some way, shape, or form. How will my close relationships fare under the pressure of an ocean of distance?

Given the unfortunate reality that I am not a fortune teller, the answers to these questions are not yet clear to me. But you see, this is where faith comes in. If you combine my idealist and realist perspectives, you end up being prepared for the worst whilst hoping for the best. I am well aware that I will undoubtedly face some seemingly insurmountable odds in attempting to navigate life on my own, but as they say – experience is often times the best teacher. Is it unnerving to know that I will not be able to hug my mom when I really need some TLC? Yes, obviously. Will I miss my friends and family so much that it is physically painful at times? Claro que sí.

However, sometimes in life you have to listen to that little pesky voice inside of your being. Granted, I often feel like my inner-voice is more focused on cute boys and satiating my sweet tooth, this voice should not be ignored. I have felt this strange, uncontrollable desire to see all the nooks and crannies of this world for years, and the time is nearing to act on this incessant complusion to move for the sake of being in motion. I have decided I want to write in some capacity in the future, and this will certainly focus on what I learn/see/experience/etc. in my upcoming adventures.

So to my friends and family, this is what I write for you today: do not let distance cloud your mind with ominous worries. God puts people in your life for a reason and those relationships closest to you will not change regardless of physical distance. I am so so so blessed to have a life that is founded upon loving relationships with quality individuals. As we look forward to spring break and finishing senior year with a bang, keep this in mind – I know I will: “Together forever, never apart; maybe in distance, but never in heart.”