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Dear recent (and imminent) college graduates:
The inevitable time we feared and avoided has arrived. After the pomp and circumstance, the family photos, the group hugs and celebratory dinners and parties. One final night of community; one day full of love, relief, celebration, togetherness. We hoped it would last forever, but as with all our favorite moments, it was over too soon.
We drove home, kissed family and loved ones goodbye, took off the cap and gown, and prepared for a new day — our first as college graduates.
Now, I sit on my bed at 1 a.m., tearfully scrolling through photos and snapshots of the happiest moments of my life. I wonder whether I can do this whole adulting thing without my friends. I miss their smiles, their laughs, their warm embraces and comforting hands on my shoulder. I miss sharing stories, deeply discussing the world's problems, daydreaming about travel adventures and catching up on the week's plans over overpriced coffee.
I wonder if they feel the same — alone, lost in thought, unsure of what's next. Do you feel the same?
College graduates, I write to you in this period of darkness and dismal isolation as a fellow 20-something struggling to forge her own path after four years of protected guidance. I write to you as a friend. However, I write also as a scared young girl who is just trying to paint on a face of confidence every day. I am here to tell you that you are not alone; I remind you that it is OK to not be OK, especially through this kind of existential crisis.
