Torch, Fall 1980

12 LOOKING BACK... "It's really here! Ginny Decker, you're graduating!" I said to myself. I was actually walking down the chapel aisle to receive my diploma. "Four years couldn't have passed that quick– ly. Where has all the time gone?" Memories flooded my thoughts. I could still recall the sick feeling that I had in my stomach the first day that I came to Cedarville. There were the adjustments to the cafeteria food, the bigness of the campus, and the unfamiliarfaces of nearly twelve-hundred students. At that time, four years of college seemed like an eternity! But now, it was as if those years had been only one eventful day. Classes, chapel services, sports activities, concerts, banquets, drama programs, and various Christian service ministries allowed for an exciting, but hectic schedule. Discerning priorities was quite a struggle. Donn life was an unforgettable experience. Popcorn poppers worked continuously. The candy and pop machines were forever being refilled. There were occa– sions of uncontrollable laughter and ridiculous stories. Then there were the moments of deep personal sharing. The excellent academic atmosphere in my classes always challenged me to search diligently for truth and to establish solid convictions in my life. As Ibecame involved in team ministries and missions programs, God used these experiences to develop me into a more mature per– son-one willing to be used for His Glory. "Straighten your cap. We're the next group to receive our diplomas," w ispered the student on my right. My thoughts were brought back to reality. I stood with the rest of my row reminding myself to walk slowly up the platform steps- so I wouldn't trip. I quickly glanced around me at the friends who had made a profound impression on my life at Cedarville Col– lege. Through the lives of many of these students, as well as the faculty and staff, God had shown me how to love and work with people in light of the principles found within His Word. As I reached for my diploma and shook Dr. Dixon's hand, a warm feeling of pride swept over me. I had finished my course. The Lord had wonderfully prepared me through my training at Cedarville College to better serve Him in the future .