Senior Goodbye: Lessons learned

Lindsey Hughes, Editor-In-Chief • May 17, 2022

“I really don’t understand how I am supposed to conclude a relationship I have had for years into one short correspondence. So I suppose for the last piece of myself I give to this publication, I will share some experiences and people that I am grateful for, and the lesson I learned from each one.”

After my first day of freshman year, I sat in my older sister Shelby’s room with her. She pulled out her phone, and a minute later she said, “You’re 0.07% done with high school.” I sighed and commented on how long my high school career would feel. Little did I know, the 99.93% I had left would go by in a short flash, and soon I would be writing this goodbye.

I absolutely hate goodbyes, so I always push them off until the last possible second. (Also the reason I procrastinated writing this until the very last second). I get awkward when saying goodbye to people, especially knowing I probably won’t see them again. I really don’t understand how I am supposed to conclude a relationship I have had for years into one short correspondence. So I suppose for the last piece of myself I give to this publication, I will share some experiences and people that I am grateful for, and the lesson I learned from each one.

Living with my dad: My dad and I have been a dynamic duo since April 2018. I appreciate our time together because we weren’t too close when I was younger. He is like a super-parent. He does the job of both and makes it look easy. He puts me first, and has always given me everything I have needed. My dad has taught me about serving others.

Scoliosis surgery: When I got my surgeries in 2020, I felt very isolated, so I always looked forward to the occasional visits from friends. It took a lot of help from the people around me for me to heal the way I needed to heal. Surgery taught me to show gratitude toward others more often.

Joining Gifted and Talented: I am so glad that my mom advocated for me to join GT back in kindergarten (shoutout to the OG crew Emma and Ella). GT kids are interesting people, but they are great people. Most of my best friends throughout K-12 have been GT kids. GT has taught me to work hard.

Working at Jamba: I have only worked at Jamba for a year, but Jamba has already brought me so many of my best memories and friends. I found a love for work (outside of the paycheck). It has become such a big part of my life because I love who I work with. Jamba has taught me to make friends in any situation.

Trips to Florida: My family will be taking our seventh(?) trip to Florida this summer, and I will say it never gets old. Every Florida trip is the week before school starts, so it is like the last hoorah. I love spending the short week with my sisters and relaxing at the beach. I know Florida holds such a special place in our hearts. It has brought me amazing memories with my favorite people. Florida has taught me to enjoy the present.

Being on The Red Ledger: Writing has always been the best way for me to express myself. Being in newspaper is probably the best choice I made sophomore year. I care so much for my TRL family and the fab 4. Love y’all Parker, Will and Margo. I have had the most fun on this publication writing and laughing with the people I care so much about. The Red Ledger taught me to always make time for the things you love and the people you love.

Goodbyes hurt too much, so FNR!

About the Contributors

Lindsey Hughes, Editor-In-Chief

Third time’s a charm, right? Well, let’s hope so because the 2021-2022 school year is the third and final year for senior Lindsey Hughes on TRL. With the inevitable senioritis already in action, Hughes hopes to skillfully perform the duties of Editor-In-Chief and keep this multi-award winning publication at its high standard. On the off chance that she isn’t in the newsroom, you could probably find Hughes playing games with her PAL, hanging in Eairheart’s room or working at Jamba. Hughes is a part of NHS and works as vice-president of COOL club. While she won’t admit it, Hughes loves the thrill of UIL journalism competitions, but her love for writing doesn’t stop there. She is working to hold a creative writing camp in hopes of sharing her love and passion with kiddos. Hughes will stop at nothing to put a smile on others’ face, whether it be through hand written letters or more popularly, brownies on “brownie friday.” With only one more year to enjoy high school, Hughes plans to make the most of it with her friends and family by her side.

Caroline Dolberry, Photo Editor

Senior Caroline Dolberry is excited for her third year on TRL and second year as Photo Editor. Dolberry enjoys running on the cross country team and high jumping on the track team. You will often find her at Celebration Park running with her team. Other than sports, Dolberry is involved in her church and in the NHS. She loves spending time with her friends, playing with her dog and definitely eating at Chipotle. She can't wait for her last year on The Red Ledger!