Two decades ago, my life was vastly different. Rather than crying over episodes of This Is Us, I imagined myself in New York, hanging out with friends like Rachel and Monica. On Friday nights, I was babysitting kids for a mere $5 an hour, providing parents a much-needed escape from reality. I concealed my contraband cigarettes in a fanny pack, and the soundtrack of my teenage life was dominated by Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill, resonating with my youthful angst. At that time, as a high school senior, I was blissfully unaware of what the future held.
Fast forward twenty years and I now find myself as a mother of four, grappling with the complexities of parenthood. Last weekend, the realization hit me that my 20-year high school reunion was just hours away, and panic set in. Attending an all-girls Catholic high school in the 90s meant I was about to confront a group of successful, accomplished women, and I felt a pang of envy. I wasn’t feeling particularly accomplished or ready to engage in superficial small talk, but having already forked over $60, I wasn’t about to back down.
As I approached the venue, a familiar pit formed in my stomach, reminiscent of that first day of school filled with unknown faces. This time, however, I knew these women on a deeper level. I was aware of their children, spouses, and even their pets. I knew their lunch choices, job changes, and neighborhood quarrels—all thanks to social media. By accepting a friend request or following their updates on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, we had maintained a connection that allowed us to share both joyous and sorrowful moments. Each post was a glimpse into their lives, and our interactions had included everything from silly kid videos to heartfelt stories of loss.
The reunion presented a unique opportunity to finally embrace those friendships in person, to laugh, cry, and share memories that spanned decades. What once felt awkward had become more natural over time. I was relieved that I didn’t let my social anxieties keep me from attending. That evening revealed the remarkable accomplishments of women now nearing 40—doctors, lawyers, CEOs, mothers, and friends. We all began our journeys together at 14, sharing memories that bonded us, like that unforgettable senior party where a stripper made an unexpected appearance.
Back then, we were all dealing with teenage insecurities; now, we navigate life with stretch marks and leggings instead of flannel shirts and shag haircuts. I felt enriched by reconnecting with women I hadn’t seen in years. The joy of seeing an old friend walk through the door and sharing a warm hug was unparalleled. There were no surprises about physical appearances or career paths; we already knew each other’s stories, which was comforting. It was astonishing to discuss personal matters, like a leaking bladder, with someone I hadn’t seen in two decades, yet felt so familiar with.
My life has been enhanced by the relationships I’ve cultivated through social media. Without these platforms, many of these friendships may have faded after graduation. While social media cannot replace the intimacy of real-life interactions, it certainly bridges the gap, allowing you to be part of someone’s life. It’s not a substitute for the warmth of a hug or the support of a friend, but it does provide a way to stay connected. After the reunion, there’s nothing quite like sitting in a parking lot with a friend, enjoying frozen custard while reminiscing about the night’s highlights.
In summary, attending my 20-year high school reunion turned out to be a rewarding experience. It allowed me to reconnect with old friends and reflect on how far we’ve all come. If you’re hesitant about attending a similar event, consider it an opportunity to relive cherished memories and celebrate the lives you’ve built.