March 9, 2023

Last Blog

I’m running out of interesting ways to open a blog. Maybe it’s just me but openers seem to spread like wildfire in a group that reads to each other each morning. I probably should have consulted with my favorite blog writer here, Jack, to get some tips.

Eh, let’s see what we can do.

As I watch the sunrise over the valley through a barred window of the BMS hostel, I wonder, “What can I say that hasn’t already been said?” We’ve had some, “What does it all mean?” We’ve had a little, “Why did I come here?” I’m not sure I can add much to that conversation. It has been quite a trip. I’ve had a lot of fun; I’ve learned a lot, and I’ve gotten to know some really great people. That’s all I’ve got for now.

For better or worse, our group zeroed in on our enterprise idea a little bit late. I wish we were further along by now but as my dad always said, “Wish in one hand…” Maybe I won’t finish that one. We have young ears on board. Anyway, we’ll get it done and tomorrow stand before an audience and tell them what we’ve been up to.

The end of this program snuck up on me. It wasn’t until I picked my wife up at the airport that it felt real. My everyday reality is still out there, and it’s almost time to rejoin it. I am excited to get back to Seattle and get on with it but also I’m a little sad it’s over.

Before I came, I wondered how this whole thing would play out. I knew of some of the other Civil folks coming along but none that well. The rest were a mystery aside from a few hours in the prep class. I wondered if it was going to get cliquish. I wondered if there would be anyone that hated it here. I wondered if there would be any sticks in the mud. I wondered if age differences would be weird. I wondered who I would end up being friends with. As it turns out, none of my cynical ponderings came true AND I became friends with everyone. Whew.

I’m not really sure where I’m going with this blog, and it’s 7:44 AM so I better try to get this ship to port. In closing, I’d just like to thank all the GCIL crew for making this an incredible experience. I am full of so much gratitude. Thanks to Priyanka, Kaylea and Julian for all that you have done. Aditya, Carmen, Chloe, Jack, Jody, Kayt, Margot, Rachel, and Sophia, I am so glad our paths aligned for this short time. ‘So many great conversations, great laughs, and great times. Thank You

By Nick