Graduation

Graduation. The end. No... the beginning.

If I had the mentality about high school and college that I do now, just fresh a year out and working on my masters, I might have done some things different.

High school flies by so quickly, and while I have no desire to live those four years over, they were four years that helped to shape me for the person I am today. I strengthened friendships and made lifelong ones in the process. If I HAD to do it all over again, I'd probably have spoken my mind more to more people, been more proud to call myself an active Catholic [I still wear my Kairos cross proudly], and I would have looked to gain more experiences while I was living at home.

I could say the same thing for college too, especially my first semester there. That semester is a blur looking back. I was living day to day just trying to cope with being away from my family, best friend, then boyfriend, and the routine and life I loved. It's funny how you go from set schedules in high school to college where they prepare you for a career that revolves around schedules. Most times college is the most out of flux you'll ever be. No routine, no set schedule, eating habits changed [I would think about that, now wouldn't I?], new people in a new place, the list goes on and on. But I digress.

Michael is newly graduated with a fresh start and open doors ahead of him. He deserves all the best things life can offer and God has a wonderful plan for him. Along with my older two brothers, I pray for him fervently to be where he is meant in life and to get the most out of it. I wish I could pass on to him the knowledge that I gained while away from home [even in Oklahoma I continued to learn]. And beyond that, I wish I could give him the courage to step out and shine his light brightly because he has a bright light. Because he IS a bright light. Because he is my brother and I love him so dearly.

Michael-

I am proud to call you my brother, I am proud to be your older sister and I wish all the best things from you. I love you terribly, terribly much and miss you while I'm away.
Expect a graduation gift in the future, I have to think of something totally awesome and quirky enough. And just remember, this is the beginning, your attitude is everything, and you have all the tools you need to succeed. I'll be here when you need me and I'd love to get random text messages, voice-mails, and phone calls from you whenever you need my advice or just to shoot the ****.