"What Happened?"

I called my Mom today to fill her in on how an interview for a job went for me this afternoon. I also mentioned that I received marks back for two exams, as well as a few assignments. For various reasons, my marks this semester have been higher and consistent (although, I am also somewhat surprised because there are various reasons why achieving higher marks does not make sense to me). My grades during my time here at university have been less than desirable and as time continued to tick by, all I started to want was just a pass. Until now.

I was telling my mom what my final marks will be and she said, "What happened?" I ought to mention she also said it was great and very encouraging!

But what did happen?

(1) I started reading the very first day of school, especially because I did not have classes. People were a bit surprised by this and gave me a hard time about it (except for Heather, of course). My theory is: better get a good start on it. And to those of you who gave me a hard time, I'm sorry that perhaps my actions resulted in you feeling unproductive! ;o)

(2) I had a great team of cheerleaders and prayer warriors on my side. Thank you!

(3) I attended class regularly. I'd say that was a huge accomplishment because I had my very first 8:30am class in my university career and I hardly missed it! It was actually refreshing to be on-campus early!

(4) I tried to read my readings BEFORE the lecture. It actually does help. The professors haven't been lying to us or trying to make our lives harder. Crazy! Who knew?! That also means that when it came time to write a midterm, I had already read all the readings so studying was actually reviewing and not learning information for the first time.

(5) Although I have had difficulty sleeping lately, my bedtime has been earlier this semester. If you don't believe me, Becks will tell you!

(6) I set some boundaries for myself, my time and in my relationships. I stepped back from commitments I had and re-evaluated where I stand. I think it has been beneficial and a useful exercise!

(7) God. Most of all, I owe it to Him. Why? Because the past few months have been some of the hardest months in my entire life. In all honesty, I expected to do poorly this semester in all areas of my life and academics. But He is gracious and supplied me with the energy and focus, despite my struggles, sickness, and my grandfather's death.

Thank you, Lord!
The victory is Your's.