"Class of 2009"

To my dearest friends of the Class of 2009,
I wish you joy, blessings and strength.
I know how you feel.
I used to be you.
Anxiously watching the clock tick the days away.
I was invincible. Nothing could stop me.
Don't be like me.
April will hit you like a rock.
It did me.
I've never been so scared.
I've never been so depressed.
My life was put into perspective.
I didn't like what I saw.
Why am I telling you this?
I want you to be happier than I was.
These words are not meant to frighten,
But frighten they may.
The sooner you realize the truth,
The longer you have to overcome it.
I did.
The journey was not easy.
But no one ever said life would be.
Cherish this time.
Do not wish it away.
Yesterday's history.
Tomorrow's a mystery, as it is said.
Live for today.
Don't regret chances not taken.
Keep your friends close now.
You'll want to keep them tomorrow.
So, to you, my friends:
Please, don't wish it away.
Whatever you do.
It will be your greatest mistake.
Instead,
Cherish it.
It will be your greatest happiness.