A letter to the school that moved on without me:

I suppose you didn’t expect to hear from me again, especially not like this, but life is hard without you. Ever since that dismissing morning in May, I have longed to see you. To be with you again. To walk through your doors and feel a place of belonging. The way we ended, was pictured different than it felt. People smiling, hugging me, wishing me well; and you. What about you? You sat there as you watched me leave your life. Silent. You watched as I kissed you goodbye, my cap in the air, and yet you were still, silent.

In all honesty, I couldn’t wait for the years to end. The constant chores, nagging, and drama: I wanted to leave. However, with all that baggage, I was still at home. My comfort became my fairytale. As I struggled throughout the days, I still couldn’t imagine being anywhere else. My support system, my solution, it was all in that building. Where I went for fame and glory, on and off the court. Without you it is different. I was quickly introduced to my new fling, College. He isn’t as humble, and he definitely isn’t as welcoming. Broken promises and sleepless nights. It’s not home anymore. Though I crave for you back, I guess this is what it has to be.

Now that we are finished, it is almost as if my presence was erased. Every blood, sweat, and tear shed in your gym, and you're going to move on like I was yesterday’s meatloaf? To think my name will no longer be echoed throughout your halls, brings a lump to my throat. After everything we have been through, you are going to forget me? On the other hand, I bet you are used to it. You have the ability to grant the best 12 years of a person’s life. You watch them grow, learn, and eventually leave. In and out like a swinging door. I wasn’t, and still won’t be, the only one. Where monogamy isn’t realistic, and a heart-break is certain.

As we get older, the bond we held will soon fade. New bodies will take my place, and I will watch in the shadows. I never wanted our long years to end, but I was in love with the thought of something new. You live and you learn. Although bumpy, you gave me the best 12 years a girl could ask for. Thank you.

-Sincerely,

The Graduate