Saying goodbye has never been easy. Middle school me never realized this is how my senior year would end, during a pandemic. A pandemic that canceled the best high school memories that were supposed to be made. Memories I was supposed to cherish and love but got taken away too soon.

I still remember the first memory I made freshman year. Standing in line at the teacher’s desk, you turned around complimenting the flannel I wore. A memory that has helped me through my tough years because you’re here with me. My best friend has helped me accomplish numerous achievements. I can’t thank you enough for going through this with me. 

To my best friend: Meeting you freshman year was the highlight of my high school memories I have created. We may have had our ups and downs, but we managed to talk the issues out. You are the reason I never failed to succeed in life. We have grown to learn about each other every day. You’re the sunshine on my darkest days. I will be waiting for the FaceTime call after your first day of college. Thank you for being by my side. I love you endlessly.

To my family: What can I say other than thank you. If I didn’t have everyone with me, I wouldn’t know where I’d be right now. You guys have inspired me to pursue my dreams. Thank you for loving me, caring for me and never giving up on me. 

To my love: Even though we didn’t meet at the same high school, you still made high school a memory to remember. Creating new experiences with you has helped me learn so much about you. I love you and thank you for being you. 

To the teacher who believes in me: Being in your class since sophomore year has been an amazing experience. With frequent days of me struggling and not having the motivation to sing, you believed in me. The belief I never knew a teacher could give me. I have my moments in the class, but in the end, I enjoy every second of being there. The days I managed to sight-read, I would struggle and you’d cheer me on. You have given me hope for the future. There are no other words to say, but thank you for always being there when I needed someone.

To Pinkham: Even though I have only been in your class for a short period of time, you managed to make this class enjoyable. I have become a better writer because of you. Writing has helped me express myself, and getting positive feedback from people has motivated me to do better. I am excited to continue writing in my free time while remembering how to become a better writer. 

Newspaper people: Thank you for welcoming me. I may not be good at the whole writing thing, but you guys have supported me the most than anyone ever has with writing. I always look forward to this class because it is my time to relax and relieve my stress. All of you never fail to make my day better. Emily: Getting to finally talk to you again has brought back memories I shall never forget. Thank you for helping me enjoy this class. I can’t wait to see where life takes you. Aiden: What can I say? Thank you for making me laugh when I have bad days, thank you for always being you and never giving up. Rohanna: Well, you’re my favorite. I appreciate the hugs you have given me when I needed them the most. That’s all I can say. 

Lastly, to my lunch buddy: We have had a past with each other. You have suddenly opened up and managed to trust me. I can’t ever thank you enough for being my diary. We have made amazing memories during our time together. Lunch has always been something I looked forward to every day. When I have bad mornings or a bad week, getting to talk to you always puts a smile on my face. I’m sad we are going our separate ways, but we shall meet again. I love you endlessly.

Now it is time to move forward in my life. New memories will be created with new people I meet. As I close my eyes and remember the memories from my school years leading up to now, I can say I made it. With all the tears and stress, I managed to overcome the obstacles I faced. 

In closing, I’m finally finishing up yet another chapter of my life, a story I shall say. A story I will never forget. As I leave this high school that has given me hope and knowledge, I will use my tools to help others succeed.