North Cacalacky's Journal

The long road is finally coming to an end. I begin classes in just two short weeks from now. I received my acceptance letter to Arkansas State in November of 2005. Couldn't wait for the time to fly by so I could begin the program. Now it's sooo close it actually feels real. Nervousness, excitement and a whole host of emotions fill my head. I still remember getting that letter in the mail. I had worked late and went to get takeout food. I ate my food in front of the TV and realized I hadn't checked the mail yet. It had been less than 3 weeks since my interview, at which time I was told I would hear something in 4-6 weeks. I stepped onto the porch and opened my mailbox. Saw a letter with that familiar address and felt my throat tighten. "This is it, but in less than 3 weeks?", i thought. Either I presented myself poorly or I just hit the lottery baby! I opened the letter, scanning for important words. Congratulations caught my eye and I focused in on the surrounding sentences. Yes!, they want me, I'm in, I did it! I literally jumped up and down in my kitchen and yelled and jumped up and down and yelled some more and laughed. I felt freedom. I felt strong joy, happiness, pride, a feeling of accomplishment, acceptance, importance, and so many other positives. I felt so fortunate, all I could do was keep laughing and try to keep from crying. Even though it was just an acceptance letter and not a degree it felt so damn good, felt like I was on the verge, like I had come so far, like my hard work and singlemindedness actually meant something. It was one of those defining moments in life I suppose.
Guess the honeymoon is over now and the real work begins. Now I can look forward to that ultimate feeling I'll get in May 2009. Till then, I can pull out that letter and get part of that feeling again...