"How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard." - Winnie the Pooh
Going into high school you meet many new people. Some you never talk to, some you have a class or two with, but if you're lucky, there's some who become your family for the next four years. I was lucky enough to meet some amazing people in my four years of high school-- people who I learned to grow with and who I could be myself around.
Soon enough those four years of being together come to an end. Senior year comes around and everyone begins to plan for the future. Some head east to the beach while some go states away to start a new part of their life. Quickly you realize that the people who have been by your side for the past four years soon won't be there anymore.
So, to my high school friends:
These are the things I need you to hear before we head our separate ways.
I wish you nothing but the best in whatever path you choose. Whether you're halfway across the world or right here at home, I hope you make the best of what life has to give you. Your future is only as bright as you make it.
I wish you love. This world can be cruel and mean. I hope you find people who bring nothing but happiness to your life as you have mine. People who love you and accept you for you. Surround yourself with those who make you a better person and bring out the best in you. Never allow negative people to remain in your life.
You'll always be with me. No matter what paths we take, I hope you'll know you'll always hold a special place in my heart. Some people come into your life only for a while, but leave a mark forever and for me, you were those people. From the late night laughs, to the 2 a.m. Waffle House trips, to completely covering our bodies in paint for football games, and everything in between, I will never forget the memories we shared.
Finally, thank you. Thank you for being there through the ups and downs. Thank you for never failing to put a smile on my face. Thank you for being the shoulder that I needed to cry on. Thank you for being at the end of all my rants. Thank you for never leaving my side, no matter how hard it was to deal with me. Thank you for keeping me grounded and reminding me who I was when I had forgotten myself. Thank you for all the memories I will hold so dear. Thank you for loving and accepting me. Thank you for being you. Thank you for becoming my family. Seriously, thank you for everything. High school can be tough, but people like you made it great for me and I am beyond appreciative of that. I could never express the gratitude I have for every moment spent with you.
So go on and take the world by storm as I know you will. Reach for the stars and never give up on your dreams. Always know you have someone who believes in you, and that someone is me. I can't wait to hear what you end up doing and where life takes you. Keep in touch, seriously.
"But the most important thing is even if we are apart, I'll always be with you."
I love you guys.
XOXO