My first day of freshman year started with first hour, Beginning Treble Choir. It was in that class that Mr. Jensen said to us: four years from now may seem far away, but blink, and you’ll be getting ready to graduate. Well, I guess I blinked. It is a bittersweet time of my life, and high school is drawing to a close.
Over the past four years, I have been incredibly busy. Each and every class, group project, rehearsal, and team has played a role in creating my high school experience and shaping me into who I am today. I have learned so much more than just gas laws, Bacon’s rebellion, and symbolism in The Scarlet Letter. Time management, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are the true hallmarks of the knowledge I have accrued.
People sometimes ask me what I would do differently if I could do high school over or what I wish I had done. To that I say, nothing. I have no regrets and I know that everything happens for a reason. I’m right where I’m meant to be. To my fellow class of 2013 and to the classes that will follow, I encourage you to live with the same mindset. In all you do, search for ways that you can better your character, learn from those who surround you, and serve others.
Have a purpose. Show gratitude. Dream. Be self-motivated. Share ideas. Appreciate beauty. Give hugs. Laugh at yourself. Join choir. Enjoy life to the fullest. Remember that high school is not a destination. It is a place to take risks, make mistakes, learn, and grow before moving on to the next step in time. For me, the next step is to go off into the wild blue yonder, but I will always remember the friends who have influenced me, the teachers who have mentored me, and the lessons that have benefited me during my season at Prairie Ridge.
Teachers, I am not only grateful to you for your efforts to help me achieve my goals, but for investing time and energy into helping me to improve as a student and as a person. I hope to someday use the skills I have developed and the insight I have gained throughout high school to impact others as you have.
Seniors, this chapter of our lives is ending, but a new one is about to be written. We will cherish the special memories we have made, but it is time for a change. The time has come, and we are ready. It truly came in the blink of an eye. I wish all of you the best throughout high school and beyond. God bless!
