Friday, June 12, 2009 - 8:32am

I've sat right here on this bed, procrastinating getting ready every morning, and yet this time I'm not avoiding going to school, I'm trying to make the day slower, make it last longer. I've always thought that I'd be ready for whatever the "real world" threw at me when high school was done. It's just like a really, really long summer, isn't it? It sure doesn't feel like it. Sending in high school transcripts, terrified that the conditional acceptance won't return the letter that I'm looking for, working double shifts at the restaurant, saving every penny that I have - this is what I have to look forward to now.

Today is the last last day. I come back to the school three more times for finals and diplomas. Then that's it. Come to pick up the report cards and off with the rest of my life. In 20 days, I'll be 18, responsible for myself and responsible for bills. Bills. Is this what my life is now? I always waited so long to grow up; first it was I couldn't wait to be 10, then 16, now 18... but I'd like to stop right there, thank you. I don't want to grow up. Take me to Neverland sans MJ, and I'll be good. I'll be happy as a clam for the rest of my life.

So, my fellow graduates, don't take today for granted. Don't get too excited that this is the last last day of your grade school career. Life only goes on faster from now, and it won't stop to wait for you to be ready. Each and every one of you have made a difference in my life, whether it was because we were close as can be, acquaintences or simply just a glance by in the hallway, that simple understanding of who the other is without words uttered. I'll have those memories of those I went to junior high with - the first year that I lived in Calgary. Those first people made such a change a smooth transition. I wouldn't be anywhere without you today. I'll have memories of those that I grew close to in high school, of those I lost, of those I've never spoken to. I won't forget you.

This is it - the end of an era. But not all is lost, it's a new beginning just as much as it is any end. I'll take it as a new chapter in my life, not the end of the novel. It's not the climax yet, so keep reading.