Some people question why I go back to my high school when I’m home. They ask why I’m still friends with people who haven’t graduated yet. They criticize me when I say I still talk to my teachers. They don’t understand. Maybe high school was an awful time for them and that’s understandable, I pass no judgement but I do ask that you respect me for going back there.

High school is nothing short of miserable for some people, there’s bullies, drama, lots of work, and sometimes the stress of it all gets the best of us. Those 4 years are supposedly the years you “find yourself”. You go through phases, maybe some people don’t approve of what you do or who you are so it just becomes hell walking through those hallways every day. Some of you count down the days until it’s over while others “peaked” and are the most popular kids in school. I’m not going to lie and say high school was the best 4 years of my life because it certainly wasn’t. There were obviously difficulties throughout it all but some of the people in that school made the days seem not so bad, THAT’S why I go back.

I go back to visit the teachers that changed my life for the better. The ones that were there for me and helped me find my. The ones who pushed me when I said I couldn’t do it. The ones who inspired me to do everything to the best of my ability. And most importantly, the ones who helped shape me into the person I am today.

I created a bond with a handful of teachers that I am forever grateful for. Some tell me it’s weird how I stay in contact with them even though I’m not their student or that it’s wrong to be connected with them on social media. However, they just don’t understand. I will be forever grateful for the bonds I have with my teachers and thankful for each and every one of them. I know that even to this day they will be there for me if I need help whether it’s school work or a personal issue. I trust them and they have helped me accomplish so much in such a short time.

I also go back and visit my friends who still have yet to graduate. Yes, I have friends who are underclassmen, there’s nothing wrong with that despite what some people say. I like to think they look up to me and I want them to know they can come to me with any problem they are facing. I want to be there for them because I didn’t have someone like that for me when I needed it the most. My friends are one of the most important things in my life and no matter how old they are, they will always hold a special place in my heart.

All I’m trying to say is, it’s not weird that I go back to high school. High school taught me valuable lessons and I created bonds there that will never be broken. I am beyond lucky to have had a high school experience that was filled with the relationships I have today and will continue to go back and enjoy each and every visit. I can’t wait to go back.