“The last time always seems sad, but it isn't really. The end of one thing is only the beginning of another.” 

•  Laura Ingalls Wilder  

I have a tendency to think about endings and beginnings during the end of each summer. This summer is no different. Many things are changing around me; thus, I believe it is only natural to think about these kinds of things at the end of a season we so strongly associate with warmth and life. Autumn can be cold and wet and ruthless, and it can make the end of a great season so much more intense. It often makes you wonder, how is the end already here? 

As much as I personally dislike change, I do not think endings are actually a bad thing. They simply are the closing of a chapter, which in my opinion is oftentimes more a good than a bad thing. This is why I believe endings are not something you should fear. Endings have the chance to lead you to something great, because the end is often a beginning of something else. Additionally, it is good to remember that everything in life has to end at some point. The summer will end and the autumn will start, and soon the autumn will be gone and the winter will begin. And how much nicer it is to live through the summer time without a worry about the inevitable change of seasons. Just think about it - if you spend all your summer dreading the end of it, you will not have any memories of those sunny days nor have you enjoyed them in the slightest. 

Many people seem to appreciate beginnings more than endings. And I understand that, because endings are many times painful, sorrowful and it can feel like they last forever. You may look back to where it all started and feel depressed over the fact that things had to change. Beginnings, on the other hand, are freeing. They bring with them a sense of hope and make you excited for the future. I would describe them as stepping outside after it has been raining for a while; the air is fresh and you can finally see the sun come out of hiding. You feel lighter - perhaps the lightest you have felt for quite some time.  

Obviously not all beginnings are full of joy nor are they necessarily easy for a person. This summer I also had to re-learn some things in order to finally move on to a new beginning, and it made me feel down more than once. Still, I try my best not to worry about endings more than is really necessary when moving forward. And neither should you, dear reader. You can instead try appreciating your journey so far and accepting the end of this chapter. You should also remember that the beginning of something new is just around the corner, because that is how it goes; endings and beginnings are always tied together. 

As I will be busy finishing the rest of my studies and preparing for some other beginnings this academic year, Robi & Sara will be the next people to guide BTSB; in other words, this will be my last chief editor’s note. It has been wonderful but like with all other things in life, the end comes around eventually. Nevertheless, the end of my journey as the chief editor has not been an obstacle for this unofficial “End of the summer issue” in being filled with many great articles! First, we have Robi with a touching creative piece. Next up is Annika with an article you surely can relate to. Additionally, Sara has written a realistic and honest composition about being single. Finally, as a parting piece I give you a poem fitting for these chaotic times.