There was absolutely nothing that could have prepared me for the drive to the airport. 

As we drove through the town that I had come to know and love, a lump grew in my throat. My eyes watered. I began to shake. My heart ached. This drive didn't hurt me so much because of the destination at the end, I was actually very excited to come home to see my family and friends. What hurt was seeing the town that was no longer mine. Driving past all of my favorite places. Passing every hangout and meeting spot I've come to know so well this summer. But something was different now. These places were dead. There were no crowds, cars, lights, noises. Everything was asleep. 

This was definitely one of the most difficult things that I have had to do in my life. Perhaps what made it so difficult was that it wasn't happening by choice. It was inevitable and I couldn't do anything about it.

Ultimately this was one of the most confusing feelings that I have ever felt in my life.