Man, this school year has been longer than expected, and I be able to tell you why if you asked. It's just been kind of rough, honestly. I learned a lot about both the world and myself, but sometimes, learning is difficult and kind of painful.

This year, I made two of the greatest friends I have ever had and grew closer with the two I already knew, and I'm not just saying that because of the chance that they might read this. I might not see them much once I leave the school, but I will always remember the Pentagram. They've taught me so much and helped me schlep through all the trash that at times seemed like it was going to kill us.

This year was rough.

Before this year, I had never considered me having depression as a possibility. This year was my first panic attack, my first big, hard cry that just leaves you empty inside, my first rude wakeup call to life and society and school and myself. I've struggled against all of the four this year, especially the last. The amount of criticism that isn't even directed at me that I've come to see has started to take root in my mind, and it's been a bit difficult.

It's over, though, or at least almost. I'm leaving this whole thing behind in a few weeks, and it's going to be fine. I'm letting everything wrap itself up because I have done good this year through the whole thing, and I'm ready to move forward. I'm done with this story arc.

This year was tough, but I was better.