A New Chapter of my Life

The clock strikes a quarter past nine and a blank Microsoft Word document presents itself to me. To be honest, I had contemplated putting it off and starting this article in the wee hours of the night. I am sure that the upperclassmen can sympathize with me as we all know that senioritis seems to be hitting its peak right now. However, this is not merely an assignment, but rather a self-evaluation.

With less than a month of school remaining, the desire to relax and let the days float by enters one’s mind. Unfortunately, the reality is that this internal battle is not over yet, and probably
will not be for decades to come. The only time one should start cruising is during retirement years.

My four years at Alhambra High have been life-changing. I moved to this city in first grade, but immediately learned to love it. I have experienced regret, kindness, joy and every other emotion
one can possibly think of. But most of all, I felt a sort of bond and that is something I am surely going to reminisce upon. The people I have met are incredible and each person I have encountered fills a space in my heart. I like to think that my life is like a puzzle and individuals are the pieces that play an equally significant role in creating who I am today. I cannot believe the next step of my journey to college is up ahead.

I am going to miss those people that have helped shape who I am. I am grateful for my friends, teachers, coaches, teammates and even those who do not know me well, but smile or wave
when we walk past each other. Even the smallest actions have influenced me and I have learned how to stay strong in the toughest times. With the knowledge and wisdom that I have gained, I will apply it to everything that I do and put in all that I can in the future.

I am going to miss the places I’ve been. I mean, where else I can go for Jenga and great drinks, but at the bustling Factory Tea Bar? How about the Tuesday specials at Thai Purple or satisfying my sweet-tooth cravings at Candy Chef? I can’t forget about the delicious Menchie’s frozen yogurt place conveniently located near the Edwards Renaissance theater either. The 626 is filled with great food and entertainment, as well as locations where Youtube celebrities film at!

Finally, I am going to miss the details that surround me, but are often forgotten in the rush of living. The rumbling of car engines, the temporarily shocking vibrations from the trains that easily
enter and silently leave Alhambra, the breathtaking lights of Main and Valley that can be seen from miles away and the soft cricket chirpings that remind us of the rest we must all eventually
take in our endless pursuit of all that life has to offer …

Who knows if there will be all these at the university I will be attending? The future is unclear, but there is one thing that I am certain— “A-town” will always be my town, along with many others.