Reaching Your Hands

03.

"For the past six years, I have learned many valuable life lessons that will stay with me forever. Other than academic knowledge, I've learned that failure is not the end; instead, it provides us with opportunities to grow and learn through continued efforts. I used to find myself contemplating the question, "Am I a failure?" I felt this way because I was incapable of reaching the expectations others had of me. The girl who used to be looked up to had experienced her failure once in her life. Nevertheless, I refused to let those circumstances hold me back." I glanced around as I saw everyone carefully listening to my valedictorian speech.

"As I bring my speech to a close, I want to emphasize that failing to achieve our goals does not make us failures. It is important to embrace failure as a learning experience and an opportunity for personal growth. And be reminded that even in our darkest moments, there is always a light that will lead us forward." As I made my way down the stage, the sound of applause filled the room. 

I glanced around and noticed that half of my friends had tears in their eyes. Among them was Trase, who caught my eye and mouthed the word "Congratulations" to me. It was a heartwarming sight that I'll cherish forever.

The sun was starting to set as our graduation ceremony drew to a close. Excitement bubbled through the crowd as we threw our caps high into the air, marking the end of our six-year journey through high school. Laughter and cheers filled the air as we celebrated this significant milestone. 

We could feel a mix of emotions within us—the pride of our accomplishments, the nostalgia of leaving behind familiar halls, and the anticipation of the unknown future that lay ahead. It was a moment we knew we would remember for the rest of our lives. As I approached my parents, I saw both of them preventing themselves from crying. Dad embraced me with his warm hug, "We are so proud of you, Rei."

"You did very well, My Rei. Your hard work paid off." Mommy smiled proudly, as she tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear. As I embraced their hug, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride, knowing that even if I faced failure in my life, I knew that their support towards me would never change. 

I ran to my friends, and we immediately formed a group hug. We knew that not all of us would attend the same university. Carmela brought out her camera as she took a photo of us.

"Tapos na! College na tayo!" They cheered together.

"Shet! Kahit nakakasira kayo sa ulo, mamimiss ko kayong lahat," Rai smiled sadly. Tumabi naman sakaniya si Ares at agresibong tinapik ito sa likod, Rai glared at him as he smiled innocently. "Baka mamiss niyo naman pagmumukha ko." Nagmamayabang na saad niya. Everyone laughed at him, "Mandiri ka naman, Alcazar!" Zian yelled at him, "Nandito ka nanaman! Bumalik ka sa HUMSS," Ares playfully pushed him away.

I turned to look at my girlfriends—Freya, Carmela, April, Moraiah, Shanaiah, and Araceli. The girls that stayed with me through my ups and downs, and accepted me as a whole for who I am.

Trase and I have decided to stroll around the school campus, reminiscing about the memories we had. As I gazed upon the school library, a place that holds numerous memories of Student Council meetings and study sessions, I instantly felt a sense of nostalgia.