You Turn Me Into Somebody Loved

Rain turns the sand into mud
Wind turns the trees into bone
Stars turning high up above
You turn me into somebody loved
--"Somebody Loved" by The Weepies

This song makes me cry every time I hear it.
When Sarah sang it at Brenna and Ryan's wedding, Katie and I were instantly in tears.
I bought it on iTunes the next day.

There were dozens of moments yesterday when this song came to mind:
As students, old and new, came with tear-filled eyes to say goodbye...knowing that when they left the conference we would not see each other again until February.

As I was given a support check from a Saddleback staff member...

As I was stopped in the halls of the office by a few other staff members who reminded me that they are praying for me...that they are so excited for what God will do...that they love me...even my exit interview was filled with encouragement and anticipation.

As the Jr. High staff and spouses sat around in Kurt's house last night sharing memories, affirming and encouraging me...when Ron tears-up, you know it's an emotional evening...

As I ran in to some friends at the Spectrum who were genuinely excited to see me and have a chance to say goodbye.

It's all of these moments that remind me that these people are what make me somebody loved.
I can't even explain the overwhelming emotions that come with knowing that I am this loved.
It doesn't seem fair to have so many people who truly care about me.
I'm so grateful for this knowledge...I think, if this is all I learn from this experience (and I know it won't be), then it is worth it.

So...if you are one of these people...please rest assured knowing that I love you too...that I had trouble forming sentences yesterday thinking about not seeing your face on a regular basis...that I want so much to be a part of your next school semester or your day-to-day adult learning or even simple inside jokes that are developed in the office or on my back porch...

I just read this over and I'm really hoping it doesn't come across as arrogant. I'm not trying to sound awesome, I'm hope to convey my heart of appreciation.

Oh, and two sappy posts in a row mean something really funny has to come soon...so be ready for that.