Then

Beginning of June 2011

“See you all there, Mom. I’m leaving to pick up Ashley,” I yell to her as I walk out to the garage. Since we need to be at graduation earlier than our families, I am using my mom’s car, and they will come later. I throw my cap and gown in the back seat and drive to pick up my best friend, Ashley. As I pull into her driveway, she comes out of her house already in her cap and gown. Her gown is a little wrinkly; her cap is crooked, but she has the biggest smile on her face.

“This is it, Harper.”

“It is,” I reply as I drive towards our high school. I can’t believe that I am graduating from high school.

“I love this song,” Ashley says as she turns up the radio. “Lazy Song” by Bruno Mars blasts in the speakers as we pull into the parking lot. I notice that the sky is overcast today, but at least it is not raining. I put on my cap and gown as we walk inside the school. I swear that I can actually feel the energy and excitement in the room as we say hi to all of our friends. Everyone is full of nervous chatter as we find our place in line for the processional.

My thoughts begin to wander while I listen to our principal, and then our valedictorian, give their graduation speeches. Some people think that high school is the best, but not me. I enjoyed certain classes, and I do appreciate learning new things, but I am looking forward to going to college. I want the freedom to decide when my classes are and what I will learn about. I know that there are some restrictions, but I am ready to make my own choices in life.

I saw my family watching when I walked in during the processional, so I look over at them and smile. It feels like my life is just beginning to start as I walk towards the stage. I glance