These last months passed by incredibly quickly. Oddly enough, this summer was longer than any recent other. Finals ended the second week in May. And still, it felt short. What happened? I worked. I enjoyed time with friends and visited relatives. My birthday arrived. My bedroom felt amazingly nostalgic. Yet something personal kept tapping me on the shoulder, saying, “dude, what are you doing here? You do not belong here.”

I joked at the start of this hot and humid season to my uncle about how wonderful it would be to carry everyone dear to you in a backpack everywhere you go. If they could somehow pause their lives when they want and accompany you to celebrate every joy and provide support at every challenge, there would be no reason for summer at all. I was only wanting to leave because I missed people.

Many claim these flowery, dry-heat months their favorites. I think I disagree. Taking a break from intense learning, constant Washington exploration and jam-packed fun is necessary. But four months? Do we need that many?

Everything stopped. That hectic lifestyle which I learned to love broke cycle. I became really good at catching the metro exactly on time, grabbing lunch exactly where I want in the break between classes, visiting cousins in Maryland on weekends when the work eased up. And it ended. Was it stolen?

Now it starts up again. The wheels are scratching and the engine kicking. Every student and faculty rides aboard. You freshman are in for an exciting ride.

I am glad it is back. I longed all summer to resume maintaining my stamina, balancing the many responsibilities that campus and greater Washington offer me. I belong here. My heart kept trying to tell me, but for a short while then I had no choice. Everyone needs a break, yet I sure am happy to have returned.