I <3 BYU

So, it was really great to come back to BYU last night. It's funny how often people talk about "the bubble" at BYU, and how 'harmful' and 'biased' and 'naive' the bubble is. You know what? I love the bubble. It was so strange being in Wal-Mart and seeing people with tattoos, and piercings, and foul language. I was in the 'real world' again, and i didn't really like it. Don't get me wrong - it was great being with Jamie and Justun, and being able to go shopping at some place larger than the creamery... but I was excited to be back on campus with my friends. It's amazing how you can miss someone so much after two days, when you've only known them for about a month... a bunch of someones, actually. We have such a great ward - i'm pretty sure i could recognize almost all of them, and put names with most of them.

And the best part about being back on campus? Tunnel singing. It's the highlight of my week. It's so amazing to be able to stand in a group of probably a couple hundred kids, and sing your heart out. Sometimes almost literally, judging by the tears and grins and struggling words of those around you. And somehow the fact that you had to face the cold walk - a tiny sacrifice - and leave your bed and homework and comfortable dorm to get there makes it seem all the better. It's cold and dark, and sometimes wet, outside, and you aren't feeling very good, and then you step into the glowing tunnel, and suddenly you are surrounded by friends, and warmth, and the spirit is definitely there. As a matter of fact, i don't know that you could avoid it if you tried. But, why would you try? I wouldn't.