To The High School Senior

This past Friday I returned to my hometown of Wilson, Kansas for the annual homecoming ceremony. It was much needed time to reconnect with teachers, friends, family, and members of the community I had not seen in a while. While I enjoyed watching my Alma mater play some pretty good football, I started thinking.

A year ago, I was in the same spot as those seniors. Going through their final year of high school and about to enter the big world of college and life. Thinking about being in that position there was lots of stuff I wanted to say to them and show them, but I didn’t know how to put it. How could I explain that when it’s over its over? High School isn’t always the best or greatest time of our lives, but there are many things that happen in high school that won’t happen anywhere else.

To the high school senior going throughout this year, don’t freak out, this year is a tough one. You may be trying to figure out what you want to do in life, what you want to do after high school, and many more of those big questions. All of that is okay, life is a journey, a marathon not a sprint. You only have one year of high school left, go to the football game and pep rally, go out to sonic with your friends, and dance like no other at the winter homecoming. You may be counting down the days to graduation and trust me it will come soon enough. I have some regrets, and chances are that you will too. Set a goal and be intentional about having as few regrets as possible

Also, as you go through those final days, say thank you to those teachers and staff that helped you. They greatly appreciate those kind words. Make amends with those people you make not be on the best terms, make new friends with the younger classes, and make memories one last time with those life-long friends. Never ever forget to tell your parents for helping you to make it this far and that you love them. When you walk across the stage for the final time and grab that diploma, it’s over. You may take the last class photo together and not know it. Afterward, everyone will move on to the next great adventure, some together and some not. So, enjoy every moment left of high school.