Newly, eager, or waiting graduated seniors of high school,
Pay attention and listen close, what I have to say is important.
I remember my very last night in Minnesota. I was surrounded by a bonfire, a lake, and my best friends of the previous four years. I can so vividly remember the deep laughter of the boys, and the fast-paced conversation from the girls. When I think back to that night, I remember it from the outside looking in. As if I was watching a movie about myself. I was so fully present in that moment that it became an out-of body experience. I just sat there, not saying a word (which is very uncharacteristic of me, might I add) reflecting on everything the last four years and especially the summer had brought me. One of my friends even waved his hand in front of my face to make sure that I was okay. But I wasn't okay. In that moment I knew that in 12 hours my entire universe would be different.
The summer of 2014 consists of fond memories. Late afternoon DQ runs after a day at the lakes, boat trips, drive in movies, 4th of July cabin trips, long nights at the river bank, cliff jumping, country music festivals, and most important to me, nights that consisted just like my last. The simplicity of friends sitting around a fire discussing the rest of our lives while simultaneously reminiscing on what an incredible time we had had together.
Nothing was particularly special about that summer. No one experienced a major life-changing event, we didn't take an exotic trip overseas, and no one found a summer romance worthy of the silver screen.
What made the summer so special was that we collectively decided that this, this time would be one that we'd remember for the rest of our lives. We would be absolutely present in anything we did with anyone we know.
So, graduates, cherish every single second of this summer. Every day wake up and memorize how it feels to be exactly where you are, because in three short months everything changes. Some good and some bad, yet change regardless. There is no way you can possibly prepare enough for what is ahead of you. Even if you're counting down the days to get out of your hometown, there is no other time in your life where you will have such freedom and opportunity available in your life. While the future is just beyond your reach, stop and take the time to remain in your "now."
Now is when you consciously or subconsciously decide which friends are worth the effort to continue with relationships well after high school ends. After graduation, there are people in your class you will never see again. Take the summer as an opportunity to solidify the bonds with the ones that you will.
Plan one day of the week that everyone can count on to take off work, and try something new with friends. Go to the concert in the park you were always to lazy to walk to. Rent a kayak for a day despite your minimum wage salary. Work up the humility to forgive those that have wronged you, and the courage to speak the words that have never been spoken. Sure, you'll all return home for winter break but it won't be the same. The town is no longer yours. A new group of teenagers will have made it their stomping grounds, creating memories just like you did.
Recently I asked my dad what his thoughts were on the notion that “college is the best four years of your life." He paused for a minute and concluded that there is not one set of your best years. Each phase of life is wonderful and special for different reasons.
This time is wonderful and special. Embrace it, live it, memorize it in your mind and save it for a rainy day. Be still. It won't be long until you'll be wanting it back more than anything you've ever wanted before.
With Love and Nostalgia,
Katie
