Dear Aspen,
I know we haven’t known each other for long, but heck, I feel like I’ve known you forever. Secretly I know you’ve always been there, in the back of my mind waiting for me to realize that you are in fact, the one. My eyes were opened five years ago. That was when I truly saw you. I began to understand you, I needed you, and you changed me. I believe it’s time to make this, us, official. I love you, Aspen. Even though you have some rough, rocky parts and can’t decide between being hot or cold half the time, to me you are perfect. And here’s why…
Our (not so) quaint little town of Aspen has been nestled in the vast Colorado Rocky Mountains for almost a century. People have traveled to, skied, mined, hiked, and shopped (obviously) in the beloved A-Town. As someone who moved here for high school, it is not what I have always been used to but it has become home, more than any other place I’ve lived. Aspen has taken a part of my heart and soul that I will never get back. And I’m all the better for it.
Although Aspen is known for smallness, that has nothing to do with its significance and everything to do with its size. This town has shown me the world. Quite literally. From school only, I’ve had the opportunity to travel to two different countries, the Tetons in Wyoming, canyons in Utah, New York City, and countless areas around Colorado. I’ve seen and met people I otherwise never would have. Without Aspen Sister Cities I wouldn’t have friends in Germany, without Model UN I wouldn’t know anyone in Italy or England, and without soccer or skiing I would never have gotten as close to my now best friends. Through opportunities in Aspen, I’ve done things my parents still haven’t and have grown a whole lot. Not just as a student, but as a person.
Although school isn’t the only thing I participated in up here in Aspen, it has been a big part of my life and I’ve enjoyed it. I love seeing the look of awe and curiosity on people’s faces when I tell them what I do at school. ‘Well, I’m basically never there,’ I like to joke. Being able to participate on the ski team, soccer team, and Model UN club, I feel as though I’m always off at a race, game, or conference. In response, I often get, ‘You know your school is cool when you have a ski team and a lift less than five minutes away.’ I just smile back, a not-so-subtle glint in my eyes, reminding me of so many memories.
Telling my friends in other places, family, or even new acquaintances about this beloved newspaper is my favorite part though (many of my college essays may or may not have been about the Scribbler). I love showing them not only my articles about this wonderful town we all live in but those of other staff writers as well. The talent and passion within our town is admirable and although my own passion varies (daily), I am every day more inspired by my teachers and peers around me. For that, I love the people this bantam nook has given me. I love the opportunities, the beautiful views, and the love I have been given. The list goes on and on.
As a senior, I’m genuinely sad to depart. I have to constantly remind myself, it is not temporary. Aspen and I will always be connected, in an almost magical way. As locals and newer residents have told me, Aspen is a place you’ll never forget and it never forgets you.
Thank you Aspen for everything. Until next time.
Yours,
Adeline Christensen