Post Graduation and ends

There's about a week left before I leave for New York. Departure has always been a strange time for me, whether it's holidays or graduation. Maybe it's because I'm the youngest in my family, but I always seem to miss people the most. I figure it's the unknown is what really gets me. What happens to them? Are they happy? Are things working out? Do they miss what they're leaving? This comes up because this last Sunday was St. Olaf's graduation. Although I didn't know many seniors, the ones I did know were incredible. Realistically speaking I will probably see this group of people once maybe twice more as they move on to a new stage in their life. Do I wish they could stay at St. Olaf with me so we can laugh and put off the rest of our lives? The little kid part of me says yes, but the more mature (yet reluctant) part of me says no. I guess that's really all it is. When people are leaving you wish they could stay, but you know that's what life brings. I've reflected on this many times personally and always reach the same conclusion, yet my feelings never change. I suppose it's like a young child giving up their teddy bear or blanket. A familiar comfort we all must out grow.

The other reason these feelings surface is my own personal departure. The summertime is usually a time when people are more relaxed and the days are easy going. So what better time to make up for the time you've missed during the school year? However, the summer is also the best time to travel since there are little to no obligations. I've spent summers traveling and I've spent summers in Northfield. Reflecting the both I've made better memories traveling, yet I still find myself wishing I was staying in Northfield. I suppose it's because I know this is an opportunity to spend time with people I've missed. Realistically speaking, this will be one of the few remaining times I have to see these people as they too will go on to new things. And so will I, at least I hope.

Anyway, on to more pressing and less angsty matters. I have not given any serious thought as what I am packing or what I will even do in New York. My brother Long once told me that his friend likes to pack light for trips because "it makes the trip more interesting" and I have readily adopted this mindset. So far the only things I am bringing for sure are: clothes (obviously), running shoes, cleats, and a laptop. That strikes me as too little. But I honestly cannot think of anything else I could need. The other thing is what am I doing in New York? Doug has outlined our days as such: Work, workout, ultimate, and party. As great as that sounds I'd rather not spend my days in New York doing only those things. I hope to do some sight seeing naturally and take in the U.S. Open, but what else is there? Volunteer work is a possibility. I mean there must be something more, it is NEW YORK. I also sent my itinerary to Doug today, which in retrospect was probably a little preemptive seeing as how there are still 6 days until I arrive. This is probably because I've been trying to plan my college major and that has me thinking of the future, which sends me into a panic. Anyways, back to leisure on a beautiful day in Northfield.

Best wishes,
Vinh