To my small high-school class,

Almost a year has gone by since we've graduated high school. Time sure flies, huh? I grew up with you, and it blows my mind just how quickly things can change. Soon after graduating, we went from seeing each other daily, to once in a while, to essentially not at all and went our separate ways. I lost touch with many of you, but I do still think about y'all pretty often. I genuinely wish you all the best.

When I get on Instagram or Facebook and see a post from one of y'all with people you've met and memories you've made, I feel happy for you. I'm glad you guys have found your people. People who will love and appreciate you for you. I've found mine too. I know it's sad, but numerous people say that we hung out with certain people in high school simply because it was convenient. After all, we all knew each other really well. But just know, as convenient as it may have been, I would never go back and change the time I spent making memories. Because to me, it wasn't just "convenient." Y'all are my childhood friends. From graduating sixth grade to collecting leaves to going through that awkward junior high stage to getting way too competitive in the homecoming festivities to graduating high-school, we've done it all. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

As sappy as it is, I have numerous memories from my time in high school, and every single one of you all contributed to at least a memory or two or all of them. You guys will always have a special place in my heart. I learned about myself and life, I grew as a person, and I was shaped into who I am today because of our experiences. And I know that you are all capable of achieving something great with your lives, and I say that fully believing it. Having a small class, allowed me to really get to know everyone and see their personalities and talents shine in various aspects, and for that, I am forever grateful.

Like I said, many of us went our separate ways, but I will always hope and pray that each of you are succeeding in your goals. I'm always happy to hear that you guys are thriving. We have come a long way in the span of a year, but there is still much to look forward to. And though we all may be going in different directions now, we all have one thing in common and that's our alma mater. No one will ever quite understand my crazy high school stories like you guys. So thanks for simply being there.

I hope college is treating you all well!

Sincerely,

Your former classmate