Dear Students,
If I had realized that Friday in March was not merely the start of an extended break, but rather a transition into an entirely new reality, I would have cherished those final 46 minutes with you in person far more profoundly. Instead of hastily gathering materials and issuing instructions for what I believed would be a brief period of distance learning, I would have shared some vital thoughts with you.
You are about to embark on high school, a significant milestone during a global pandemic that even the wisest adults struggle to comprehend. When you left that day, filled with excitement for a well-deserved break from your busy lives, you could not have known that everything would change. Your familiar world vanished, akin to an old magic trick where the tablecloth is yanked away, leaving the dishes intact yet exposed. Your family, your home, and your school-issued iPad are still there, much like the dishes that remain, but a substantial part of your life has been pulled away.
Graduation will not unfold as it has for previous classes. There will be no cap and gown, no celebratory handshake. Your high school orientation, the next chapter of your lives, has been disrupted. You are missing out on spring sports, gatherings with friends, and the lively conclusion to your 8th-grade year—moments that many take for granted until they are gone. Uncertainty looms over the future, and that is a heavy burden for you to carry.
Had I known that Friday would be our last face-to-face interaction, I would have emphasized your resilience and creativity. I have seen through your writing, insights, and humor that you possess the qualities needed to contribute to the solutions our world urgently requires. I am confident that you will navigate this challenging time and help shape a better future, growing up in ways that set you apart from all previous classes.
If I had understood the gravity of that moment, I would have held onto the handouts and materials you didn’t require. I would have reminded you of your strength and intelligence, qualities that you will continue to embody. Most importantly, I would have insisted that you take full advantage of your remaining time to simply be kids, enjoying your world one last time.
If only I had known.
For further insights on navigating life changes, consider exploring some of our other posts, such as this one on privacy policies. It’s essential to stay informed as you move forward. Additionally, resources like the at-home insemination kit from Make a Mom can offer guidance on related topics. For a deeper understanding of the insemination process, check out this excellent resource from Healthline.
In summary, the unforeseen shifts in our lives can leave us longing for moments we never fully appreciated. As you step into this new world, remember that your resilience will be your greatest ally.