For most people, graduation day is one of the best days of their life. No more high school, and for some it means they are now able to go off on their own and embark on the independent journey of college. In my case, graduation day started out as a great day, but it turned out to be one of the worst. It's almost like I wish I had never had a ceremony. If there had been no graduation ceremony there would not have been an accident. On June 13, 2011, I woke up a happy and excited seventeen year old because it was my graduation day and that meant no more high school, no more nagging teachers. and no more drama. I met my friends and my boyfriend Andrew in the school parking lot and we went to practice for graduation. After we practiced walking and got our diplomas, we all went to lunch and discussed what we wanted to do for the rest of our lives. After what we thought was one of our last lunches together, I went to Andrews' house to hang out for a bit. We talked about him leaving and me staying here and all the normal things that apply in a relationship when one leaves. Before leaving home I asked him if he wanted a ride to graduation, since he had been in a car accident four days earlier and the only vehicle he had at the time was his motorbike. He responded with a polite "Nah." That's when I realized he wanted to take the bike. When I got home I quickly got ready, ironed my hat and dress, did my hair and makeup and made my last phone call to Andrew. I called him right before leaving and asked him if he was sure he didn't want a ride. Once again he responded politely and on my way I went. When I got to high school everyone was taking pictures and laughing and talking about how good they were... middle of paper... the service was beautiful. Everyone who spoke had something nice to say and somehow I found enough strength in myself to stand up and read the prayer his parents had asked me to read. Nowadays I still think about him and wonder what things would have been like if he was still alive. I know I can't help it, it just feels good to think so. Losing Andrew was a reality check and a life lesson. For me the reality check was that no one will be there for you forever, so make sure you always tell them how you feel. The lesson I learned was to live life to the fullest and not regret anything. I know there is no such thing as a mistake, there is only what you do and what you don't do. It's sad that it took losing him for me to realize that, but I guess things happen for a reason and I'm grateful for everything he taught me.