I’m back in the city after what was probably the best summer of my life — and I’m not quite sure what to do next. 

Working at NSLC every summer has taught me a lot about myself and the people around me. Mostly, I’ve learned that no matter what happens to me in life, I’ve got a choice: I can either be happy or not happy in any given moment. NSLC has taught me how to make the right decision. 

I’ve met some of the loveliest people through the organization, some of whom will be my best friends in “real life” and others who I won’t speak with again. People like Kelly Outram, who always puts a smile on everyone’s face, and Jon Piliser, probably the most lovable human being on earth. People like Amy Bingham, who’s a friend to everyone in need, and Clay LePard, Nate Brigham, and Bailey Swilley, who can’t help but make you giggle. People like Buddy Blessing, who’s got it all under control, and people like Monica Dugo, Anthony Brenneman and Silva Sevlian, who truly, completely want to bring goodness to the world. People like Laki Eassey, who redefine the word ‘koala.’ 

Not to mention all the students. Collectively, they’ve meant more to me than I can explain. I loved them all — even the “bad” ones. Probably I loved those the most. 

But the best lesson I’ve learned from NSLC? 

How to love myself. 

Here’s to a new outlook — and the new blog. Hope I can keep this up.