With graduation still lingering in the air and college quickly arriving, I am beyond excited. As a final celebration of graduating as Salutatorian, I hosted a graduation party to connect all of my family and friends as well as rake in some extra cash to finish my "what I still need for my dorm" list.
My mother and I spent weeks planning, meanwhile spending a few hundred dollars on food, games, and decorations.We could not wait for all of the people that said they were coming to enjoy what we had planned for them. We had a photo booth, Pizza Hut, Subway (including the cookies) and even played a game with a prize! You'd know if you came.
Here's a little background for you to fully understand: I was never liked much in high school. I was an overweight, black, lesbian woman who lived with a single mom in a rented apartment. Trust me, the bullies had a hay day. Unfortunately for me, I never lived any of it down and could never, ever keep a best friend who was unconditionally loyal. Putting all of that aside, I wanted to enjoy my last few high school experiences with everyone. It didn't quite happened as planned.
Here are a few things I learned after I threw a party and no one came.
1. People don't have to stay true to their word.
We wouldn't have spent so much time and money if we knew nobody would come. My mom went above and beyond because so many people said they were coming. That is what an RSVP if for, you know. Sadly, I wasn't important enough to be remembered. Or maybe I was, but just not important enough to show up.
2. Courtesy is a thing of the past.
I would not have been as angry if they would have told me. For the people I considered my "friends" to just stand me up without any communication was one of the worst things possible. Not only was I embarrassed in front of my family (who were forced to be there), but I was also saddened at the fact that my secret anxiety of nobody really liking me was confirmed.
3. I truly don't have any friends...except for my High School Math teacher.
We all joke about not having any friends, but I truly am alone. The only person who showed up that wasn't family was a teacher. Thank God I have always considered her my best friend from high school. While I was in high school, I was made fun of a lot for being so close to her but this proved she was the only loyal one I had.
4. High School memories are nothing to cherish.
Okay, let's all be honest here: High School was not and never will be the best four years of your life. People are fake and no one can be trusted. However, as a last peace treaty, I invited everyone to come to my party and enjoy time as a class, regardless of the past. Unfortunately, most of my class acts like they're still in high school. Their maturity level is about as high as their IQ.
5. Family really is everything.
Blood is thicker than water. I know, another cliche, but it's true. Everyone in my family took time out of their busy schedule to come to my party in the hot, less than ideal weather. Not only that, but they made me realize that I don't need anybody else. They didn't let my graduation party turn into a pity party, which I am very thankful for. Even more so, I am thankful for the time, money, and love each and every one of them have invested into me and for what they will continue to do in the future.
Here is to the next chapter of my life, and finally getting to close this one. Here is to finally getting out of this small town with these small-minded people. Cheers.
