STAGS SEND FAREWELLS Seniors leave final words of wisdom with siblings

To start off, I want to let you guys know how proud I am of you and all of the growth that you have accomplished. I have been blessed with the opportunity to witness all of it, and I wouldn’t trade that for the world.

As the oldest child in the family, it is common that I am the one that is supposed to teach you all of the lessons and guide you through life, but there are many times that this was the opposite. I have learned many things from you guys, and you both have a large part of why I am the man I am today.

One of my favorite memories of us was when we were all three together side-by-side on the kickoff team this year in football. Not only because

I’m going to miss you like crazy next year. I will miss kicking the back of your knee in the hallway and taking mints from your locker. I will also miss hanging out in your room every night and taking endless drives around town.

I know you think that the house will feel empty when I leave, but I feel like I’m going to have a little

Dear Connor & Daniel, Stephen

it was super cool, but because it symbolizes the bond that we have.

Our family has been through many hardships over the last few years, and we have stuck together side-by-side through all of it. We have been there for each other during the highest of the highs and the lowest of the lows, and I am extremely grateful for that.

Pretty soon I’ll be off to Mizzou, but please know that your high school journey flies by quickly, so cherish the time you have with your classmates.

These years of our lives are truly special, so make the most of them. I love you, boys.

Love,

Dear Allison, Josie

empty space in my heart when I leave that you usually take up. You will be calling me every day — that’s a command, not a request.

I have such high hopes for you and the rest of your high school experience; I know you will make the most of it. Love you so much.

Love,

You’re the best brother anyone could ask for. You are my best friend and I couldn’t imagine living life without you.

You are very talented and your work ethic is something that I envy. You always help me with the neighbors’ yardwork.

Dear Grant, Cole

It has been great watching you grow into a man and start to think you could beat me in a fight (you never will). You’re super funny, too.

Keep on doing great things. Thank you for being my pal.

Love,

Dear Azael,

These past two years have been filled with some many amazing experiences. We are each other’s biggest supporters.

I still remember your first day at Miege you were so nervous, and I told you everything was going to be okay. Now, you have found your people and enjoy coming to school, even if it’s just to mess around.

Even though I will still be around, things won’t be the same anymore. I will miss coming to school late together, and seeing you in the hallways.