What Did You Miss Out On Doing in High School/Middle School?
As they say, 'time flies when you’re having fun,' but when you're in the thick of it, time can often seem to crawl by. For many of us, the transition through middle school and high school is a blur, filled with both cherished moments and missed opportunities. In this reflective piece, we'll explore the regrets, the missed experiences, and the lessons learned from those formative years.
The Dilemma of Middle School
My experience in middle school in a tough New York City neighborhood was a crucible of resilience. I made a strategic decision to take the admissions test for the specialized High School of Music and Art in Manhattan to avoid the challenges of a nearby public high school. In retrospect, my steadfast approach to my future was commendable, but it also meant that there was a part of my teenage experience that I left behind. As the French singer Edith Piaf would sing, 'I regret nothing,' but if I could go back in time, I would have made different choices.
Missed Social Opportunities
During my high school years, I had a steady girlfriend for several years, where I was consistent in my relationships. While this brought stability to my life, it also limited the number of romantic experiences I could have had. At the time, I was averse to dating because of my commitment to my steady relationship. Looking back, I wish I had embraced more social interactions and opportunities to explore romantic connections, even if it meant putting my steady girlfriend on hold. After all, life is a series of trade-offs, and sometimes the things you didn't pursue can shape your future in ways you never imagined.
The Absence of Prom
Another significant aspect of high school that I missed out on was prom. It's a tradition that's seeped into my psyche from the moment I entered high school. However, I didn't get to attend prom until my junior year. I was always shy and reserved, which made it difficult for me to date or have boyfriends. I did have a boyfriend for the majority of my senior year, but we broke up just three weeks before prom. It was a bittersweet moment, but it also taught me that love is worth the wait. In the end, I still survived, and now I have a wonderful relationship that's celebrating its 26th anniversary this week.
Lessons Learned
Reflecting on my high school and middle school experiences, I've come to realize that there are always opportunities to grow and learn from every moment, even the ones we miss. While it's easy to look back with regret, it's important to focus on the positives and the lessons learned. Finding meaningful relationships, whether romantic or platonic, and pursuing my passions were the priorities that helped shape me into the person I am today.
So, if you're currently navigating the tumultuous waters of middle and high school, take advantage of every opportunity, even if it means saying goodbye to some preconceived notions about the path you should take. Remember, life is a grand adventure, and the exciting moments often come from the unexpected turns along the way.