Dear friends,

Time surely flies! We used to be quite lazy in high school, or maybe we were just very confused kids. After coming to the United States, I realized that a lot of people get bullied during high school. Thank you so much for creating a place where I could be whoever I wanted to be. Thank you for not denying me the opportunity to be loud, weird, and crazy. I am still in contact with some of you guys, which is nice, since I haven't been able to see most of you guys in over a year and a half. Either way, I have had some of my best memories with you guys.

I have known most of you guys since kindergarten. We practically went through puberty and other important stages of our lives together. I loved talking to you guys about our dreams and hopes. I enjoyed discussing our views on Ethiopian politics, feminism, and sex, despite how crazy they got. I miss how we used to kiss each other on the cheeks whenever we met at school at 8 in the morning. People are more distant over here. I miss the days when we would sneak food into the classrooms. Now that I think about it, our school was pretty strict, but when I think back, our best days were ones in which we broke some of the rules, which to be honest were most often invalidated. Our punishments during lunch breaks, when we were told to stay inside, were also somewhat memorable. I loved dancing and singing in the classrooms with you guys during our annual cultural days, even though it was against the rules. To be honest, I think we are the smartest, most unique, most talented, and happiest graduating class ever in the Gibson school system. I also think we will be the most successful.

I am doing well. It used to be frustrating at first first. People tend to judge you a lot without getting to know you. However, I have met amazing people. My professors are so cool and smart. I have loved all my classes I have taken and am currently taking. Of course, some stuff that used to be very important to me doesn't seem to hold the same prestige anymore. I am sure it is the same for you guys as well. Despite where all of you are in your lives, I wish you all the best. Also, if I have ever offended any of you guys, I apologize. You guys are truly some of the most amazing people in the world, and I mean that wholeheartedly.

When I meet you guys again some time in the future, I hope we will get to laugh and make fun of each other again, just like the old times and maybe, time won’t fly as much, or as fast.

Until next time….

Your friend,

Milky