15 years ago...

Where were you 15 years ago?

Until a few days ago I wasn’t even thinking of 15 years ago but then my sister reminded me of something I didn't realize. This month is the 15th year anniversary for my high school class. Wow I can't believe it’s been that long.

Now that I’ve thought of it. I remember the month of June, 15 years ago was one of triumph, angst and fear. I was stoked to be leaving what I perceived as childhood (high school) and on my way to take the first steps to becoming an adult (college). I already had my acceptance to college and was looking forward to it. Then the angst came in. Would I be okay? I was leaving my home in the Caribbean and going to New York. A whole new place with new people. A major cultural shock. Most of my family was still back home. That of course led to the fear. Was I crazy for going? What if I failed? Also my dad was ill and in the hospital and I didn’t want to leave him. All of these feelings were calmed with a few words from my parents. My dad supported me leaving and my mom said she knew I could do it.

Now as I sit here 15 years later both my parents are gone. My dad died a week after I embarked on my journey away from the nest into the world. My mom was with me longer and passed just a few short years ago. My dad didn’t get to see the adult I became but I know he is smiling down on me from above. My mom was here with me through my many triumphs, failures and pains. They both helped shape me to be who I am today.

A lot has happened in 15 years. In high school before I graduated we made our predictions of where we would be in years to come. We had a talent show our senior year that depicted where we thought we would be. Some of my predictions came true. And a lot of them I never expected happened too. It all shaped me to be who I am today.

My thoughts of 15 years ago made me realize I've lost touch with my classmates. A few days ago I found our class website and plan on reconnecting with my old schoolmates. See where they are today. What they are doing and relive the old times.

My sister and I share an anniversary - it is her 25th this year. She mentioned that a lot of her classmates came and it was good to see them and catch up. With the anniversaries there are lots of activities to celebrate it. Both my sister and my class do some activities together. My sister has been regaling me with tales of what they have been doing. So far between my class and my sis there has been:

Old Skool Jamz
Representing the alumni class by attending this years Graduation ceremony
Movie Nights
7 day cruise
Community Service Project
Basketball Challenge (playing against our rival high school)
Karaoke
Bowling
Celebration Banquet
Beach Bash

And the list goes on and on. Sis is having fun. I'm sad I can't attend.

It’s amazing how it has been 15 years. Wow. I am still in shock it’s been that long. I made myself a promise I will reconnect with my classmates and make plans to attend the next milestone anniversary which would be the 20th anniversary.

How about you all? Have you attended any of your high school or college anniversaries activities and what was it like?