Graduation

The motto of the University of Pennsylvania is Leges Sine Moribus Vanae, or "laws without morals are useless."

In addition to inculcating in me belief in the righteousness of justice, the beauty of truth, and the indefatigable honor of doing good in this world, my time at Penn made manifest a few other things I simply can't live without. 

Soul mates come in many forms, and when you're really lucky, they're family. And that's exactly how I feel about these two -- the best parental units a girl could ask for. From those 4 AM Skype calls with mom when I was still studying and she was rising for the day, to the many back-and-forth, trunk-bursting shleps with dad, I've realized what inconceivable wealth I've inherited. To have been born to two people who love you fully, support you untiringly, and are unabashedly so much cooler than you? Now that's a miracle.

Squirrels on the hunt for fermented acorns

Dream team about to do #big things

I have unreasonably high standards for friendship, and yet I continue to be amazed by the souls who have entered my life. I've been blessed with these encounters many times over the past few years, but I must say -- my senior year of college would have been woefully incomplete without two. You guys rock my world.

Oh, Bill. Billith, if you will. You slay me. 

Being an English major was one of the best choices I've made. (Jolly good work, self!) Graduating with honors after spending a truly intimate year in the arms (throes?) of Shakespeare was equal parts humbling and relieving. But spending my final collegiate year ensconced in the world of words was more fulfilling than I could have hoped. From book worm to bibliophile, I've found a lifelong passion.

And to all those who attended my graduation party and made it one of those "woah" moments (as Rabbi Josh would say), I can only say thank you. As I sat there, limoncello in hand, and surveyed the room, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratefulness and awe. How the hell did I get so lucky, to be surrounded by all these individuals whom I love and admire? To have family and friends drive hours to celebrate my commencement? I have absolutely no clue, but I do hope that I can serve a role in your lives as meaningful as you have been in mine.

So, how to conclude four years? 

Many people have told me that the college years are the best years. And while I treasure each Penn moment -- each late-night Wawa run, each stroll into center city, each library marathon -- I'm thinking that Penn has prepared me for something even better.

L