Did you think I would forget about you? I promised I'd send you a message; I hope you remember to read it! (I was going to do a video but I already showered and I don't want to reapply my makeup ;c))
On the eve of your graduation, I'd like to tell you how proud I am of each of you. I have so enjoyed watching you grow from (sometimes irritable) adolescents into young adults. Even though we have had our moments of frustration with one another, I am know we have both learned from them, and I hope we have all come out better in the end.
I have one piece of advice for you as you enter the next step of your life: do not let anxiety, nerves, and fear play a role in decisions you make in the next few months, and even the next few years. While you will be nervous about entering new buildings, meeting new people, and having new experiences, never shy away from them - embrace them. When you are wondering whether or not to talk to the other person sitting alone at the back of the room, take the risk - do not cling only to what you know just because it is 'safe.' As someone who is a bit of a control freak (yes, I know it!), I refused to put myself in situations where I would have to relinquish some control, and I believe that I missed opportunities because of it. I was also too worried about what other people would think of me, and I was worried about embarrassing myself (as I know we all are). The truth is, embarrassment is a great icebreaker. Use it to your advantage! Just having spent a few days in a different country, even though it is a somewhat similar country to the United States in terms of language and such, I already wish I had taken advantage of opportunities to study abroad in college. I had no interest in it then; I wasn't confident enough to try it. I urge you to find the confidence in yourself and go for it -- whatever 'it' is.
But don't do anything stupid. ;c)
I am truly saddened when I think that I will no longer be seeing you on a daily basis, but I know that we will keep in touch. If and when you are having doubts, troubles, and struggles, you know you can always find me at 1474 Gates, or through email for those of you going away. I will be there, and I look forward to seeing you in future musical and theater productions! Enjoy your summer thoroughly, and save $30 for our trip to the Renaissance Faire in August (sometime after Gio gets back on the 14th)! Anderson -- do us proud, and come visit in the fall. My love to you all, and CONGRATULATIONS!
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