Class reunion: ready or not!

I knew it's going to be just a matter of time before someone would post a photo of me online -- that photo of me, with my thick unruly hair -- a photo in high school that I would much rather forget.

*****

Thanks to online social networks, I'm now able to see photos, and read "status" of old flames, friends, acquaintances and even arch-rivals. My curiosity has led me to find out who my old boyfriend is married to; that the unattractive, skinny, acne-ridden boy who pursued me and I constantly avoided is now a wealthy successful businessman; that the overweight girl that I constantly picked on became a TV commercial model.

*****

Everyone I knew back then would describe me as loud and obnoxious. Just like any teen, I wanted to be
 cool and fit in. Luckily, I was socially-savvy and I managed to form my clique of friends. I was never bullied; on the other hand, I might have been one of the mean girls who picked on some poor, unpopular kids. (Note the operational words: "might have been". I'm still in denial that I did mean things in my past).

*****

Naturally, after finding each other after many years, class reunions and get-togethers are the next agenda for everyone. We all want to find out whatever happened to each of us. It is so much easier to get excited over a reunion if you live a successful life, whether in your career, financial wealth, family or relationships. But how about if you are unemployed, homeless and still living with your parents, two hundred pounds heavier or have lost all your hair? Would you show your face?

*****

Well, that was many years ago. We all have changed -- no longer shy, unsure and lacking in confidence. I am still loud and obnoxious, but I hope in a fun, non-offensive way. I don't pick on my best friend anymore. Let me rephrase that: I only "sometimes" pick on my best friend now. She understands. She's my BFF.

*****

Ah, high school life. There are so many things I would change if I could turn the clock and go back. And yet, there are also many memories I would leave unchanged: the times spent in the journalism class, the youth camp, the first love letters, the first crush, the first kiss, cutting class to hang out at a friend's house, the long telephone calls, the school dances, winning the science quiz bowls and press conferences, trying to smoke my first cigarette and hacking up, cheating on exams, the graduation party.
　

*****

I think I'll be fine when that class reunion comes.
　

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