So this is it, huh?
Honestly, I didn’t think I’d be writing this to any of you. When I made my exit two years ago, I thought that was it for me. But then things happened, and somehow I’m still invested in the well-being of most of you. I want to see you succeed.
In any case, I have a few words of advice.
Please don’t wish it away. I know you want to get out of there, to be done with high school and everything it encompasses. But please, take everything one day at a time. Enjoy it. Even the bad days.
Realize that, in many ways, this is your year of Lasts. Last football game. Last marching band season. Last homecoming, Snowfest, Spring Fling. Last, last, last. You will never get moments like this again. As hard as you may try (or not) to recreate the good times once you get to college, you won’t be able to. No matter what, they will be different. Somehow. Bask in them now. You will never get these moments back.
Make friends. I mean that. In your last year, it’s tempting to cling to the familiar. I get that 100%. But talk to the girl who wears the t-shirt from the band you love, even if she’s a sophomore. Talk to the people who you don’t sit by at lunch. By the time it’s all over, your class should be a little family. Screw the cliques. (None of it matters anyway. Sorry.)
Let things (and people) go. If post-high-school life has taught me anything, it’s the temporary nature of everything and everyone. Realize that friendships (and relationships, for that matter) might not withstand the post-high-school chaos. Be understanding. Learn to let go and move forward. You’re better off.
Don’t be scared of the possibility of change. Some of you really are moving, and no matter what, all of you are moving on. That’s the simple truth of the entire situation. Take all of the rest of the components out of the equation, and that’s it: A chapter of your life is ending, yes, but don't be scared. Accept it.
It’s a change, but it’s exciting. Don’t see this as an end, see it as a new beginning, a chance to reinvent if you choose to. No matter what, you still have six months. Six months until it’s all over, whatever that may mean to you.
Make the most of it. I will always wish I did.