So you are graduating. And that is a really really big deal. It's a big deal for me too, because when you walk across that stage, you're walking out of the chapter of your life that I got to share the same pages as you. So, seniors, you have changed so much of my college experience, and I can't imagine what things will be like without you.
We have laughed together at all of the silly, goofy things that go on every day. We have made our own jokes and made our own laughs, and I am so grateful that I can light up with a smile because of a word you made up, or a story of your shenanigans happens. So you're going to walk right into the trap that is called adulthood while you cross the stage to get your diploma, and that's OK. Don't let the real world suck all of the joy in your life away. And when you need a laugh or a giggle or even a smile, call me and I can remind you of all of the amazing and funny things that happened to us here.
Seniors, I know we've had our rough patches, too. The world is all about pushing and pulling and bumping heads and shoulders and knees and elbows. But even then, with a few fights and a few grumbles, we still made it through stronger than ever. I don't want to forget all of the times that we fought or argued because those were some of the best times; all of a sudden we would snap out of it, and everything would be fine. While you graduate, the real world is going to make you butt heads with people, your parents if you move back in, a spouse, a boss, even me, but now you have a piece of paper that says you are a BAMF or a B(o)S(s), and you can handle all of those arguments like a champ.
The funny thing about graduation is that every time it happens, people leave a little bubble that they had worked on and crafted and built over their time here. Seniors, I know the amount of love you put into this university and the clubs that are a part of it. Your love for the things you are a part of is a lot of the reason why I love those things, too. And now that you are leaving this bubble and handing it off so your hands are free for that diploma, know that your love inspires people to love those things too.
So, seniors, you have been my friends, and my sisters, and my Bigs and my Littles—you have been the ones to tell me when I'm wrong and to praise me when I'm right. And this weekend, you get to be the ones that I get to cheer on as you pass into adulthood finally, after four (or more) long years of waiting. My wish is for you to have fun, to be successful and to not forget about the days that we spent together here becoming as close as we are today. Congratulations, Class of 2016. I love you.
