In the midst of all the horror that has plagued our country this week with the violence and the murders, we need something to brighten our spirits. It may be premature, especially because our latest mass murder and terrorist attack happened this past Sunday, and an innocent and beautiful life was taken the day before, but we are a strong country and we need something positive. Before that, I want to say: Orlando, our hearts go out to you and your family. To those of you who lost your family, we hurt for you and your loved ones. They were taken too soon, and they will not be forgotten.

On an equally serious note, I want to give praise to the Class of 2016. Over the past month or so, I have witnessed a number of friends and family graduate from high school, and this past weekend my own cousin graduated. Despite that I graduated last year (shout out to c/o 2015), I was as full of pride for the c/o 2016 as I was for c/o 2015. Graduation is no small feat; I know there are some students who don't see what all the excitement is about, but it truly is something to be proud of.

I feel like graduating high school is becoming harder and harder for students with all the pressure they are under. Standardized tests, dual enrollment courses, extra-curricular activities, volunteering, sports games and practices, jobs, and so many other things that students are "encouraged" to do before graduating in hopes to better themselves or make them look appealing for a college. Students are worrying more and more about what they look like for college, which can be a good thing, and not about enjoying the years they have left before entering "the real world." It's a scary place, but we know you can do it.

At this point, it's a little late for the Class of 2016, but a piece of advice for the Class of 2017, CHERISH THIS TIME. When graduates say that Senior year flew by too fast, they aren't lying. Go ahead and ask your new high school alumni.

Now I have some advice to the Class of 2016: Please enjoy your summer. Live it up with your friends, because I can promise you that you won't see everyone as often as you think. You have graduated, and now you are a member of the real world. You will get busy and you will be in the middle of a new life, and all of those plans that you once made will slowly disappear and you will be immersed in college and life. I want to remind you to remember the people you sat with for the last time as you all were recognized for the greatest achievement of your life thus far. Remember where you came from, but don't lose sight of where you are going.

Thank you for reminding me that there is still good in the world. The Class of 2016, you are the future of this country and this world. Your success is a success for our country. Fill this country and this world with intelligence, love, and peace, and rid it of ignorance, hate, and disharmony.

Congratulations Class of 2016. You did it.