Graduation and Moving Forward

                                                6-24-12

 Graduation is a day I've been looking forward to since the day I found out school went beyond the fifth grade. I've worked for twelve years, done hundreds of papers, spent hours doing homework, all to walk across that stage and get the diploma that signifies the completion of my public education days. I expected to learn alot in high school, but what I didn't expect was that a majority of what I learned wasn't academic at all. During my four years at Keene High I learned about myself and who I am, as  well as who I aim to be in the future. While all the theorems, formulas, and grammar rules I learned in high school were important, the latter lesson I mention is far more valueable.
            Graduation is a right of passage, the gateway in to adulthood, and it's extremely scary. For the past 12 years my daily routine has been the same. There've been some modifications throughout the years, but one thing has been constant; it's always been comfortable. Now with my move to Austin just 3 days away I've reached the end of my comfort zone. It's time for me to make my own place in the world. My life starts now. As the move gets closer and closer and the realization that I'm going to be on my own in a place that's over 3000 miles away sets in, I know that I've made the right decision. I'm feeling the anxiety and excitement that's appropriate for the magnitude of the change I'm about to experience, but what I'm not feeling is hesitation or fear.
            This saturday I woke up to a wonderful surprise from my mom. I got out of bed, instantly got called outside by mom. Still in my pjs, I headed outside, and saw my backyard transformed into a Texas style ranch. She proceded to tell me that she was throwing me a Texas style graduation party. From 1-4 that afternoon I congratulated, and hugged by so many who have played a part in getting me to where I am today. It truly was a perfect afternoon, and a great way to start the countdown to the move that is so quickly approaching. The experiences I've had the past week will stay with me for the rest of my life, and I can't be more grateful for all the wonderful people who have been a part of them.