As I reflect on my time at the Northern Star, I am filled with a bittersweet mix of emotions. From starting as a lowly staffer to eventually becoming the editor-in-chief, my journey at this college newspaper has been nothing short of transformative.
While I had intended to write a review of the latest Adrianne Lenker album, I found myself captivated by the song “Sadness As A Gift,” which seemed to perfectly encapsulate my feelings about leaving this chapter of my life behind. The song’s folky and complex nature resonated with me, much like the intricate tapestry of personalities and talents that make up the Northern Star team.
As one of the longest-serving members on staff, I have witnessed the evolution of the newspaper and the growth of my colleagues. I have become the keeper of “Star lore,” reminiscing about moments that may have faded from memory for others. Despite feeling a sense of maturity in my role, I am also aware of my own lingering immaturity, a reminder that growth is a continuous process.
As I prepare to bid farewell to the Northern Star, I am grateful for the mentorship and guidance I have received from my predecessors and colleagues. From my first editor to the assistant editor who supported me through my tenure, each individual has played a significant role in shaping my experience. While I may eventually fade into the background as new faces emerge, I am at peace with the transient nature of my legacy.
The impending departure fills me with a profound sense of sadness, akin to losing a beloved pet or watching the seasons change too quickly. Yet, I have come to realize that this sadness is a gift in itself, a reminder of the deep connections and meaningful experiences I have cultivated during my time at the Northern Star. Just as Stephen Colbert once mused on the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, I see the trials and tribulations of my journey as valuable lessons in disguise.
As I navigate the final months of my tenure, I am determined to embrace the sadness and use it as a catalyst for personal growth. The impending graduation date looms on the horizon, serving as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of time. Like Lenker’s poignant lyrics, I am reminded that the seasons pass swiftly, leaving us to ponder the transient nature of life itself.
In the end, I am grateful for the gifts that the Northern Star has bestowed upon me, even as I prepare to bid farewell to this cherished chapter of my life. As I look back on my time at the newspaper, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences, friendships, and memories that have shaped me into the person I am today. And as I prepare to turn the page on this chapter, I am reminded that the sadness of parting is a testament to the depth of the connections we forge along the way.