Today is your high school graduation day and I know you are thinking, "finally!" Meanwhile, I'm thinking, "My God, I'm old." I know you might feel anxious and you've been counting down the days. I know you have so many amazing things lying ahead of you, many that neither of us expects. I hate that I can't be there to cry and cheer as you walk across that stage. Instead, this letter will be posted for the world to see, but this one is for you.
The tiny school and predictable community you've belonged to for twelve academic years are changing. It won't be the same when you leave and it won't feel the same when you come back to visit. Time will go quickly and things are going to feel really weird. Home isn't home, college isn't home and there will be new faces everywhere. The little place that you have been dying to run away from has shaped you; don't deny that. However, it has only set the foundation. After you walk out of those doors today, you will start seeing the world differently. And when you step foot into your first dorm room, you will see the world differently yet again. You will grow and evolve and become someone you probably never imagined. You will surprise yourself.
As you know, my own college journey has had its moments. Just a heads up; yours will too. There will be times you will miss the simplicity of these high school halls and people who know you by default. You will crack jokes about students who haven't had to walk to class in the snow and secretly you'll really envy them and want to come back. There might be instances when you realize every single thing about your life has changed. Appreciate those moments and don't be afraid to accept them. I don't care how many people look like they have their lives together; none of us do. And I honestly don't know that any of us ever will. It's okay. You will be fine. Just appreciate the day.
As you wait for your name to be called, you are going to look around and see faces you have known for years. Let yourself really see them. Let yourself be overcome with your emotions. The next time you see some of these people, they may look the same, but they won't look familiar. It sounds really bizarre right now, but in time you'll understand what I mean. Change is very real and change is very constant. I encourage you to absorb every living moment, good and bad, and just live. It is something I am still learning to do, but I hope you will achieve it. Life moves too quickly not to feel and explore. And it moves too quickly to not notice the people around you.
This is a huge moment in your life, but it won't be the biggest. Your first day on campus will likely feel more important than today does. Growing up is messy, but the thrill is amazing. It is incredible when you look around and see that you are here. You have done it. That you are making this work! The opportunities are going to be overwhelming and it won't be easy, but the personal growth lying ahead makes every struggle worth it. Enjoy this, but get ready for the real adventure.
I also want to remind you to make good friends during your time at college. I have a handful at Purdue that I cherish, but I didn't find my niche during my first year. Honestly, I still don't think I've found it. Get involved. Get out there and try new things. Find a best friend who you can laugh with, study with, cry with and confide in. Having a support system there could make or break your experience. Don't be shy and don't be afraid to be you.
These words are scattered and I doubt I have expressed this message very well, but I hope you get the point. I hope you know how proud I am of your persistence and charisma. It doesn't matter where you end up because I will be around to listen. Or rather, I'll be there to give you my opinion because we both know I hog the phone call conversations. Oh well.
As much as things have changed for both of us, I truly want you to know that you are a strong, loving, funny, powerful woman and you will make a difference. I believe you are going to touch the lives of your students someday; the same way our beloved band director did throughout our time with him. I am so thankful that you are a part of my life. I am even more thankful that no matter how distant our friendship may feel, we somehow make it work. Please don't get discouraged, because you can accomplish anything. I truly believe that.
Today, walk across that stage with your head held high and a tear on your cheek. Hug people you have never talked to outside of class. Take too many pictures. Enjoy the love and kindness you'll receive from fellow graduating seniors and underclassmen who were moved by your leadership this year. You had a bigger impact than you or they really know. Soak it all in, graduate. You made it.
With love,
Your best friend
