As I gear up for my 30-year high school reunion, I can’t help but reflect on how different this experience is compared to my 10-year reunion. Back then, social media was non-existent, and I had no clue who would attend or how they’d changed. I was newly married and anxiously awaiting the debut of a TV show I had worked on for a year. When I introduced my wife, the polite smiles I received masked the judgment of “He’s just another struggling artist with an attractive woman beside him.”
Ten years after high school is still too close for comfort. The weekend felt awkward; we all wanted to appear successful, but most of us were still figuring things out in our twenties. Conversations were laced with an undercurrent of anxiety, as if each of us feared being “found out” for not having it all together. It was a disheartening experience, leading me to vow never to attend another reunion.
But now, I find myself ready for the 30-year milestone. This time, I’m attending as a divorced man and as someone whose television career has been on hold for over a decade. I’ve experienced both significant achievements and devastating setbacks, and I’ve finally reached a point of not caring what others think of me. Thanks to social media, I’ve had the chance to witness my classmates age gracefully, and we’re all in this together.
I’ve shed the identity of the class clown, and the cheerleader who once captured everyone’s hearts has blossomed into a confident woman with a fulfilling life. The jock isn’t reliving past glories; instead, he’s thriving as a small business owner. We’ve evolved beyond our high school personas, having embraced adult roles that reflect our true selves. By the time we hit 30 years, we’ve had the opportunity to explore different identities and discover who we really are.
As I prepare for this reunion, I’m motivated to hit the gym—no way am I showing up with a spare tire! Time to give away all that leftover Easter candy.
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In summary, the 30-year reunion is a celebration of growth and acceptance, a stark contrast to the insecurity of the 10-year gathering. It’s a chance to reconnect and celebrate the paths we’ve taken, leaving behind the anxieties of youth.