My old self:

You had another one coming, didn’t you? Didn’t expect to see yourself here, did you? You knew college would force you to grow up in a hurry, but you didn’t know how quickly it was going to happen, but now look at you. You’ve found your wings, and you’ve learned to fly. Good job, really. I wish you could have known how well you’d be doing, how many friends you’d make, and how much you’d love where you are now… it would have saved a lot of heartbreak and many tears, but hey, everything happens for a reason. You wouldn’t be where you are now if you hadn’t experienced everything you have. Keep striving for greatness, girl. “We can build this dream together, standing strong forever, nothing’s gonna stop us now.” You’re incredible, and I love you!

My family:

Don’t worry. Believe it or not, I have many people here who take care of me. Friends, mentors, and most importantly: me. I can handle myself. I’m doing great, flourishing even. I’m taking care of myself. Even if you don’t know where I am every second of every day or if I went to class today or if I need anything, don’t worry. I’m doing just fine. I’m doing great!

My highschool classmates:

All I can think is “We did it!” It was the first thing I said to you guys while I was standing at the podium at graduation, trying to hold the tears in as long as possible. It was inevitable, though. You all know how emotional and sappy I am. I sincerely hope you’re all doing well, and even if we weren’t best buds, you’re still in my thoughts, and I always wonder how you’re doing. I’ll be sitting in the dining hall at college wondering, “Hey, is so-and-so eating right now, too?” I wish you only knew the person I am now. Maybe I can "tell you all about it when I see you again…" Just remember this, and live by it: We will be heard. We will be seen. We are the class of 2015.

My highschool teachers:

Thank you for all of your patience and love. You truly prepared me for what was to come; don’t ever doubt that you’re not doing your job. You made a significant difference in my life. You were there through ups and downs, and you believed in me when I didn’t. I’ll always remember to “Never give up.” I’m doing fantastic. I’m keeping my grades up, and you’d be really proud of me if you could see everything I’m accomplishing, in the classroom and outside, as well. I always wonder how you’re all doing, what events you’re involved in that I’d normally be by your side in. I really hope to see you all again, even though I’m no longer close to home. But you know what they say: home is where the heart is. I miss you! What I wouldn’t give to hug you all… Love you guys!

My hometown friends:

Though we’ve mostly grown apart and don’t get much of a chance to talk anymore, I miss you. I think about you all the time. I worry that you’re having trouble with tests and I’m not there to help you study, that you’ve had bad days while I’m away and you haven’t had anyone to talk to, or that you miss me as much as I miss you. I’m still here. I’m just a phone call away! I hope I'm still in your thoughts, too!