When you were in high school you always talked about how you couldn't wait to get out of there. Away from that school, city, town, the guidance and rules your parents put in place, and so much more. Some continued saying that until they were away at college and others decided to stay for college but to still find a get away somehow.
Eventually, for winter break or summer break everyone slowly made their way back home. Meeting up, exchanging stories, and often saying the phrase "remember when...". Remember when we all wanted to get away and yet there we were, back where we grew up and some of us couldn't wait to get back home.
A year later and for some us that has changed. We have another year of being away from home under our belt and we wouldn't want it any other way. We have found internships, jobs, friends, and countless opportunities making it easier to stay in your new home rather than going back to your childhood home.
It's not always the easiest conversation to have with your parents. Telling them that you aren't coming home this summer and then answering what seems to be their endless amounts of questions.
Then, like I experienced the following month, reminding them you aren't coming home every time they said "should I book a flight?" or "so I was looking at flights today..." or "when you come home..." It's not easy to keep saying Mom/Dad I'm not coming home this summer. But eventually they will accept it and they will be just as excited as you are. Keep your head up and keep telling them why you're so excited to stay there.
For me it was a job, a chance to train with my best friend and prepare for our upcoming soccer season, and the chance at an incredible internship (which I ended up receiving). As I kept them updated with my summer plans and what was happening, my parents began to open their eyes and realize why I was staying.
Just give them time to understand and take it in. Remember this is big for them. It marks the reality that they're little baby is growing up and, they would never admit it, but they are getting old.
But it isn't always easy. Being away from home means you have to grow up and that very popular word "adulting" comes out of your mouth more than you'd like. You have to grocery shop, cook, work, and possibly even buy your first car all on your own.
It's a lot to handle. On top of that, you see the pictures, Snapchats, and texts from everyone that's back together having "the time of their lives," with no worries in the world., while you feel like you're drowning in adult things.
It's not easy staying away from your family and friends for the summer but keep your head up. Think of all the reasons why you are staying and all of the cool things going on for you this summer. It's easy to focus on what you're missing out on rather than seeing what you are getting to experience. Live in the moment and don't focus on what everyone else is doing. It'll be okay and there are great things ahead of you! We've all been there!
