Embracing change

Aaron's POV

"The only way to do great work is to love what you do." - Steve Jobs

Today, a new chapter unfolds as I step onto the hallowed grounds of college for the first time. A curious mix of anticipation and trepidation swirls within me, a feeling I'm sure many of you can relate to. You might be wondering about the two-year detour in my academic journey, and I feel it's important to share that story with you.

It wasn't a sabbatical filled with leisurely pursuits, but a deep dive into a world far removed from textbooks and classrooms. My father, the cornerstone of our family business, made his expectations clear: I was to follow in his footsteps. He carried the weight of his responsibility heavily, believing it was essential for me to understand the intricacies of the business world before taking the reins.

For two years, I plunged headfirst into the labyrinthine operations of our family's enterprise. Long hours were spent observing the daily grind, engaging with clients, and navigating the turbulent waters of corporate decision-making. It was during this time that I witnessed the grittier side of business – ethical quandaries, power plays, and agonizing choices lurking around every corner. I saw firsthand the tightrope walk between profitability and integrity, and the sacrifices sometimes demanded for success.

It was a demanding and, at times, sobering experience. Yet, I believe these lessons have forged a unique perspective within me that will undoubtedly shape my approach to college and beyond. Now that I'm finally here, I feel prepared to embrace the academic challenges and the opportunities for growth and self-discovery that await. I'm ready to learn, to evolve, and ultimately, to forge my own path, armed with the insights gleaned during my time away.

Lost in thought as I walked through the school corridor, I collided with someone. Books tumbled from their arms, scattering across the floor like fallen leaves. We both reached for them, our fingers brushing, sending a jolt of warmth through me.

Time seemed to slow as our eyes met. A blush crept onto my cheeks, mirroring the other person's embarrassment. Apologies tumbled from our lips, dissolving into nervous laughter. But beneath the surface, a spark ignited – an unspoken connection.

As we gathered the remaining books, I felt something stirring within me. It was new yet comforting, like a promise of warmth on a cold morning, hinting at a friendship that could blossom from this chance encounter. My heart raced not just from the accidental touch, but from the thrill of finding a kindred spirit in such an unexpected place. There was something in their smile, a twinkle in their eyes, that suggested a shared understanding, a hint that this accident might lead to something more.

Our conversation flowed effortlessly, weaving through shared experiences as if we were old friends. Laughter bubbled up between us, a warm contrast to the clamor of students rushing past. The atmosphere buzzed with youthful energy, yet I felt a rare sense of calm, a comforting familiarity that I hadn't anticipated on my first day. It was as if we'd stepped into our own little world, a sanctuary from the whirlwind of new faces and unfamiliar surroundings.

As we talked, a deeper feeling tugged at my intuition. I couldn't quite name it, but I knew that this meeting, this serendipitous collision of two souls, would change my life forever. The realization surprised me; I'd always fiercely resisted change, preferring the comfort of the known. Yet, in that moment, something shifted. Instead of wanting to retreat, I found myself wanting to embrace this new chapter unfolding before me.

I can't explain it, but I have a feeling this meeting will transform my life for good. I've always disliked change, yet this time, I'm ready to welcome it instead of running from it.