You Don't Need Newspaper Space to Write a Letter

Dear Self,
Alright, so first semester was great. You learned a lot, let's not deny that. But, despite your extremely dorky love of Hillsdale, you really have a great deal still to learn about this place. Number one, let's remember the lesson of humility. Though it's great to have a good GPA to look back on and a house of brand new sisters to support you, you still need to see the world through clear eyes. It takes the direction of God to move a step forward--to follow the example of Paul, all achievements made by myself are counted for not in the grand scheme of things. Now don't get me wrong, this is no excuse for focusing on yourself negatively. Indeed, I mean quite the opposite. Learning isn't just the classroom (Don't forget to keep working for that, though), it's understanding how to live life outwardly. Think about it: when was the last time you honestly cared to hear about someone's day more than you cared about mentally scheduling out your next week. Stop. Take a breath. Listen. You'll hear some of the greatest, most beautiful things this way. And maybe, you'll learn lessons even greater than those lovely insights you learned about in English class. After all, which role comes first: Student or Christian.
Think about it. Really engage your mind in the study of God and his people. All else comes from this. And though there is no grade in this class, the loss of not learning this lesson is far greater than a poor GPA.
Now, this is all about honesty. So, I have to say that you're not going to be perfect in learning this lesson. It will be as frustrating as getting to know a new professor, as much of a struggle as fighting against your inadequate grasp of prose, and its certainly going to trouble your mind as much as the petty stresses are. Instead of letting it clutter you, though, remember two essential lessons: One, as Aristotle said: "You will never do anything in this world without courage. It is the greatest quality of the mind next to honor." Two, pray as Aquinas prayed in this lesson too: "Give me keen understanding, a retentive memory and the ability to grasp things correctly and fundamentally. Grant me the talent of being exact in my explanations and the ability to express myself with thoroughness and charm. Point out the beginning, direct the progress, and help in the completion."
All my love,
Leah