Reflections on the Labor Day Weekend

The Labor Day weekend was quite something, wasn’t it? As the new week kicked off, I found myself thinking about everything that went down over the past few days. I really feel like I need to express what’s on my mind.

Back in January, you told me you would return. I can still recall that moment vividly—one Tuesday morning, everything seemed so perfect before you left.

Some of you have been great companions for a long time. I finally come to terms with that.

Seven months can really fly by, can’t they? At least, that’s how it felt. Your absence left this noticeable void. It’s hard not to ask—was it really necessary to leave?

I tried to bide my time waiting for you, and—well, I managed—most of the time. Truthfully, though, once March madness hit, that emptiness became more pronounced.

I really don’t want to experience that void again, yet I know something will change in time. Looking back, Saturdays without you were probably the toughest.

From dawn to way past midnight, there was never any doubt that we spent those hours together. Other friends would come by, but you had my full attention.

Those were happy moments—homemade soup simmering on the stove, a cozy fire crackling, and you right there, at the heart of it all, radiating warmth really outshining the vibrant colors outside.

I’ve come to realize that your beautiful spirit is meant to soar free, and I shouldn’t try to hold you back. Yet, I cherish every joyful moment we shared. Even when I’m not gazing at you fondly, you’re on my mind.

Oh, you’re back! Now, where do we go from here? Athens is sure to be special this fall, rich with history and traditions. Oxford too—what a thought. I think we’ll create memories in countless places. Come January, I expect some delightful surprises.

March, that relentless month, seems designed to drive me mad as if your return were on a timetable. I’ll chase other interests, trying to distract myself. But it’s just not the same. Nothing really comes close.

I know I’m not alone in waiting for you—some folks in my neighborhood are also eager. You made your intentions clear from the get-go, didn’t you? I’m not the first nor will I be the last. Some of you have been wonderful companions before. I’ve accepted that.

Do you sense this? It’s all in the past now. The important part is we’re back together once more.

My absence has only made my heart more open. As we reconnect, these next five months will be devoted to you—and only you. I truly missed you, college football.