Editorial: The Last One
It finally happened. I handed in my last assignment. I’ve begun packing. By the time you read this, I’ll already be back in my home state (Lord willing). The crazy, wonderful, and stressful whirlwind adventure of seminary is now over.
I don’t know what to think. Or feel. My friends are scattering to the four winds, following the Lord’s call. I have a nagging feeling that it won’t be so easy to make friends wherever I end up next, but I’ll continue to cherish the pals I’ve made at ATS. It’s sad to leave Wilmore, but I don’t believe I’m called to stay. Maybe I’ll be back – God only knows.
One thing I definitely feel is gratitude. I’m thankful for the Lord’s presence while pursuing this part of His call. I’m grateful for the support of my family from afar, as well as the physically-proximate support of new(ish) seminary pals. And, I’m thankful to the Alumni Office team.
Tammy, thank you for hiring me four years ago. It was just the two of us back then, and I had a lot to learn. Thanks for being so gracious, and for bonding with me about the Northeast and Puritanical work ethic. Your generosity never ceases to amaze me, and I’ve been on the receiving end of it far more than I deserve. Thank you for displaying hospitality to students and alumni alike!
Keith, thanks for being my office buddy for over three years. I’ve sent you so many memes and videos during my time here that I’m impressed you got any work done at all. Thanks for humoring all my weird conversation topics and wild trains of thought. I’m going to miss having a work pal as cool as you. Go Bills!
Suzanne, thanks for sharing in the office shenanigans with us for the past 18+ months. You fit the dynamic so well, and your contributions to the meme/video exchange have been incredible. Your missional heart is an inspiration, and I’m excited to see how you continue to develop Renewal Retreats. Keep being awesome!
And thank you, dear reader, for your desire to stay connected to ATS. As I’m now entering the realm of alumni, I know I’m excited to stay informed about what’s happening at Asbury. I hope that whoever follows me in this role will find fulfillment in its tasks and, perhaps, work at refining their own writing skills in the Alumni Link. I trust you’ll encourage my successor in the same ways you encouraged me as I refined my craft.
I’ve had the privilege of wearing a number of hats and hearing from great teachers during my time at Asbury. I pray the result of all of those learning opportunities is a life ever-more devoted to Christ. I don’t know what tomorrow will bring, but I know He holds the future. May the Lord be with us all as we follow Him wherever He leads us.
This article is by Julia Hotchkiss, Alumni Office Student Worker.
Dear Julia,
JULIA!!! What a final parting gift you’ve given us, your beautiful, heartfelt words once again reveal the depth of your soul and the power of your pen. You’ve blessed all of us in the Alumni Office (and far beyond) with your remarkable gift for writing, your wit, your wisdom, and your warm presence.
Thank you for letting us walk alongside you during this season of your journey. From the early days when it was just the two of us in the office, to the laughter, memes, and meaningful conversations shared over the years, you have left a mark that will not soon be forgotten. Your voice, your thoughtfulness, and your dedication have enriched our team and this community in more ways than you know.
We’re proud of you and grateful for all the ways you’ve served with excellence and heart. As you step into this next chapter, know that you go with our prayers, our love, and our deep admiration.
The Lord does hold your future, and we can’t wait to see where He leads you next (though we are ALL hoping His path leads you back to visit us soon!).
With joy and gratitude,
Tammy
Thanks so much, Tammy. It was such a beautiful gift to work with you all, and I’m so grateful the Lord saw fit to cause us to overlap. I hope to come visit soon, too!