It's Graduation Day

When I woke up it was almost like Christmas (which isn't too far around the corner!) when I realized that today it the today I get to walk across the stage. 

I graduated with two degrees in Early Childhood and Early Childhood Special Education with a specialization in Lutheran education. My program took 4 and 1/2 years and technically I have to finish up a couple more weeks of students teaching before the university will call it official! 

I wasn't sure how I'd feel going into graduation knowing I still had to "finish" up my program requirements. It didn't really hit me until the day before when my parents got on the road and I was excited to share the moment with so many people close to me. 

The day came and I was ready!! 

Because I am a Lutheran education major and I attended a Lutheran university, I attended baccalaureate. Only a handful of the people graduating attended this additional ceremony. I found myself tearing up through the whole thing as we all stood together singing, praying, and sharing where we will be heading next after graduation. I have not received an official call yet (which most December grads do not) but I was able to share that I will be staying at my current student teaching placement until June as a long-term substitute.

It was crazy when during the sermon, the pastor asked the graduates to stand and look at all the people behind them. These people included staff/faculty, parents, friends, and more. I could see my parents, fiance, and best friend. I almost broke down right there thinking about the support they (and everyone) gave and how far I've come in these last few years. 

Then it was time for the ceremony and I knew there'd be no tears. At this point, it was just excitement and I had already felt my emotional moment. I walked across the stage and it felt unreal. It was two seconds of glory but it felt wonderful.

I knew God gave me the strength to finish my years of schooling and as equipped and will continue to equip me for my future classroom. It was only because of Him that I was able to make it through school and follow His calling.