“I’d rather regret the things that I’ve done than regret the things I haven’t done.”

• Lucille Ball 

Life can be unpredictable, unexpected, and a wild ride indeed. When we reflect on our triumphs and tragedies, taking into account all the things that have ever been thrown our way, what do we think of? Are you angry at the bitter concoction it forces down your throat? The never-ending wave of misfortune that seems to follow you and simply you alone? Or perhaps you are grudgingly grateful for the variety of circumstances that you have had to face, despite all the tantrums you threw when things never seemed to go your way. Maybe none of these describe you at all, rather, life is simply a beautiful masterpiece that has never seemed to do anything but provide you with the best.

No matter what the opinion, one thing remains certain. No matter how bitter hard times may taste, that metallic tang of anger and hollowing ache of sadness, as unbelievable as it may seem, allow life to shine in its entirety and take on its fullest and most exquisite quality. If you do not know the pains of despair, then how could you truly value the sweet taste of joy when the time comes? 

Life as a student can be intense. Growing to learn that life is more than just fun times with friends is a responsibility that looms over our heads in an alarming manner . It rears its unwelcome presence amid the pressure to excel at school, in preparation for the rest of our lives, but also while we try to navigate who we are. In competitive environments such as Lexington High School, these questions about identity—who we are, what we enjoy, and what truly makes us smile—are often put aside and tucked into the corner of our minds while academics and what comes next for the future regarding college and our careers take the forefront. 

But what comes after that? Does it truly count if you get into the school of your dreams but at the cost of your own health and well-being? What of the experiences that shape you into a better human being? Is it worth all those memories that could have been treasured as a jewel of your youth? While there is nothing wrong with working hard for what you want (which I encourage), the issue lies when all is sacrificed for this one goal. Higher education such as college is pursued to take steps towards the career you want, and ultimately, to be happy.  

So ask yourself, why am I working so hard? What is the end goal? And most importantly, what happens when I meet that objective? For all the students of LHS, I implore you to take a moment to stop and breathe, to ask yourself what truly matters to you, to explore the possibilities that exist right in front of you, and to do it all with the intent to live a life with no regrets.