Endings

I've spent the last 5 years on the board of our financial aid state association. I'm completing my year as past president and the finality of it all is bittersweet. I will miss the close connection to what's happening with the group, but I am ready for a break.

Last week we had our conference in Savannah, where I seemed to have more tasks than time to do them. I didn't get to attend very many informational sessions, but participated in each general session and event that was planned. One night I did break away for dinner to visit my high school friend who lived in the area. It was fun seeing her new house, but I had to ask her to take me to the store to buy a last minute item for the conference. On the last night, I had to send my dinner order with my friends so I could take care of association business. I arrived not long before we were served. I spent a few minutes running to Riverstreet Sweets for some peanut brittle before rushing back for the next event. I was up until midnight each night preparing for the next day, so I was relieved to know that Friday night I would be home and could sleep. As I drove home exhausted, I reminded myself that the next year wouldn't be so frantic. 

When I began this journey I had no clue what it was like to be on a governing board. I listened, learned, contributed, and eventually guided the board. It's time to pass the torch and let others lead. However after doing this five years, I have a feeling that over the next year I'll think something is missing. 

Ecclesiastes 7:8 The end of a thing is better than its beginning; the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.