In high school, I was on my town’s royalty court. I wore a crown and a sash. I waved on a float. I was Miss Sunnyside. All of those superficial things were fun, but I like to think that I was more. I like to think that I was a role model, that I was a philanthropist, that I was a public figure, and that I was an active community member. I like to think that I was a friend to the other girls on my court and that I was an ambassador for my community. I think that, during my year as Miss Sunnyside, I gave a lot to my community, but I received so much more in return.
1. I made life-long friends.
I was lucky enough to already be friends with the girls who I was on the court with, but our year together just made our relationship so much stronger. We still have a group chat that is constantly in use. Today, I got out of class and had 30 messages waiting for me! We still care about each other because that year made us sisters. Not only did I bond with my court, but also with courts all across the state! When you have to be at a parade for judging at 8:00 a.m., but the actual parade doesn’t start until 1:00 p.m., you inevitably begin talking. There is a lot of truth to that whole “sisters of the sash” thing.
2. It taught me true responsibility and hard work.
In high school, I had an illusion of responsibility until I was Miss Sunnyside. The sudden personal growth that I had to experience is astounding. I had events, people to talk to, and a reputation that was now under a microscope. All of these things helped me to grow and realize that more was expected of me than ever before.
3. I received community support.
I loved my little town before I was Miss Sunnyside, but I had the opportunity to fall in love with it from a different perspective. The community support that I received was astounding. I felt like I was a part of something. I think that everyone can agree that being on a royalty court can only improve your view of your hometown.
I would not be where I am today without the opportunities that were opened up to me through my royalty court. The support from my family was amazing. I had an awesome director. My other court members will forever be a part of my life. The girls who I met from other towns helped to change my perspective. I was able to spend a whole year devoting time to the community that helped to raise me. I grew up that year and have no doubt in my mind that being on a royalty court changed my life. However, it was also pretty cool to wear a crown and wave on a float too.
Ashley, Leah, and Tiana, I miss you all every day. I am grateful that you three went on that adventure with me. Thank you for being my princesses.
