[image error]

Here’s the thing, I would love to write a super eloquent post about my semester at High Sierra that’s actually enjoyable for you to read; however, I don’t think that would be a very accurate depiction of how the semester really went for me. It was not a smooth ride. It was actually more of a roller coaster ride (I’m thinking kind of like one of the wooden, rickety roller coasters). Honestly, there are just too many thoughts going through my head to successfully put it into a nicely written post for you all. I tried. I promise. I sat in Starbucks for a solid hour just staring at a screen. So I gave up on trying to formulate coherent thoughts and decided I’d just give you   my stream of consciousness summary of some of the things I learned from my time at Bass Lake. Here ya go.

{I apologize in advance for several inside jokes that may or may not be a part of this post}

I learned to invest in people. I learned where to go to see the brightest stars. I learned that grass makes the best bookmarks. I was shown what intellectual challenge looks like, and with that, I learned how to have fun amidst loads of work. I learned that the first impressions I have of people are almost always very, very, VERY inaccurate. I experienced the freedom of moonlit swims ;), and I was allowed to voice my genuine opinions because opinions matter. I learned that dance parties in the dining hall can get out of control really quickly, and that’s what makes them memorable (Turn down for what, “am I right?”). I recognized the perfection of nature and the peace it brings over and over again. I learned that the granite walls surrounding Yosemite Valley make the most glorious backdrop for a meadow nap. I learned that Chacos are not only wearable while I’m rafting (They’re fashionable. Seriously). I learned to crave relationships that go beyond the surface. I learned that sand volleyball games are the best procrastination tool. I learned that sometimes rejection is the best thing that can happen to you. I learned that, when I’m hiking through a field of wildflowers, I will do my best to look at the flowers but will always end up staring at the river below (because, let’s be real, rivers always win). I learned that phones are not needed (crazy right?). I learned that climbing over boulders can actually be fun. I learned that when there is a full moon, you should always go outside because the view won’t disappoint you. However, I also learned that watching a lunar eclipse is not as thrilling as you might expect. I learned that vulnerability sucks, but I also learned that it is necessary. I learned that living in the moment, where you are NOW, is the greatest way to live. I learned that standing in silence, soaking in the last moments of an indescribable semester, with a group of normally very loud people who have become like family, is one of the most powerful things a person can experience. I learned that God stands through all doubt.