To my teachers from high school,

Hi again! I am going to drop by and see some of you tomorrow. This is supposed to be a secret so I hope you don't read this before I see you. I just wanted to say, thank you! You prepared me the best you can for college and for that I am ever so grateful. I already know all the questions you are going to ask me. You are probably going to start with, "How are you?" Next question will be, "You just completed your first year of college, right?" Then you will ask, "How was it?" Lastly, "Remind me. Where are you going again?" My answers will definitely be a little different every time, but I know I will enjoy catching up with the ones that I get a chance to talk to.

Thank you, to the lovely ladies in the main office for paying my senior dues. I would not have gone to graduation if it were not for your generosity and support.

Thank you, to my advisors of four years. You two stuck with me for my entire high school experience. I would not have trusted anyone else with my education and life.

Thank you, to my math, science and English teachers who made me appreciate the subjects that challenged me the most. You guys are amazing at what you do.

Thank you, to my guidance counselor for creating a safe space for me and my thoughts.

Thank you, to my drama teacher for taking the time out of your day to prepare me for my audition.

Thank you, to the caring and loving Principal and Assistant Principal for filling our school with warmth.

Most of all, I want to apologize to all of you. I'm sorry for the times I was stubborn. I'm sorry for the times I was difficult. I'm sorry for the times I was not appreciative. I'm sorry for the times I was rude. I'm sorry for the times that I brought you pain. I'm sorry for the times that I did not listen. I'm sorry for the times where I said things out of anger, hatred for myself and/or ignorance. Sometimes what may sound like a compliment to me, ends up sounding like an insult to everyone else. I'm sorry.

To anyone who thought I was going to get crazy and irresponsible, I am glad to say that I am not pregnant, an alcoholic, a drug addict and/or in prison. Thanks for your concern.

Many thanks,

Winnie Guo

P. S. I did not forget any of your names or faces. I wanted this to be a surprise, so I did not ask for your permission to put you on the spot, therefore I did not include your names.

P. S. S. Do not take this as an "I miss high school" kind of letter. I definitely do not miss high school. Not even a tiny bit. I just miss some of the people.