#ibyinyf

Okay, breathe. You’re going to be okay. It’s okay that you’re starting high school later than some do. Probably some of your classmates will seem a bit young. Others will seem okay. People mature at different rates and you’ll find your people. In my graduating class, we had people who were 16 and people who were 20. I dated a guy who was a year older than I was, but graduated a year later (we broke up during my first year of university, while he was still finishing high school. It was upsetting at the time, but university was full of other interesting people to meet and date.)For now (oh lordy, I sound like someone’s mom. Whatever.), for now don’t worry about dating per se. Focus on finding the people you like to hang out with. Maybe you’re into string ensemble or chess. Or maybe you’re into sports. If you find your people – your “tribe,” you’ll find the people you can talk to about the stuff you love and they’ll introduce you to other people and the year you’re in or your age won’t be such a Thing. You’ll meet people to date or socialize with. - Jennie

It is completely understandable to be scared - what a big change! My child is starting high school in a week and he’s absolutely terrified. I remember feeling the same way when I started high school. But one of the great things about high school is that it’s the biggest group of people you have been around so far - so many different kids - hundreds of them - that you have a greater chance of finding friends (and yes, maybe even someone to date) based on mutual interest and general chemistry. I was a weirdo in high school, but I was able to find a friend or two who really understood me and it made all the difference. There’s so much to explore in high school, you’ll find your way, and you’ll find a place where you belong. - Ijeoma

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Dear friends,

We were on an unplanned hiatus for - well - a long time. If we did not get to your submission or question, it is not because it was rejected. We are making our way through the backlog, but honestly, there is a lot that has been there a long time and we may not get to it in a timely manner. If you have an urgent request or just want an update on your submission or question, please send us a note here. 

Thank you so much for your patience.

Love,