The Last Titan

With pomp and circumstance filling the auditorium and my little sister in her cap and gown, the last Glenbrook South titan of the Thompson family would graduate high school. 

Before the ceremony, we made memories by taking pictures in the backyard. I am grateful that I have a mother who takes the time to photograph occasions like these. As she confidently and beautifully strode across the stage, David, my little brother and I yelled as loud as we possibly could. It was such a wonderful moment! However, the ceremony was filled with mundane speeches. The distinguished alumni had been out of high school for 32 years so I have 23 years to earn that honor. I did the math multiple times during the ceremony just to make sure I had the right number. I promise to deliver to the class of 2040!

Genevieve has been the best little sister from day one. We all wrote Genevieve letters to commemorate her milestone. Here is mine: 

Dear Genevieve,

When you were born, I had an American Girl doll. On the day I held you for the first time, Mom asked me, “who do you like better”? I liked my baby sister much better than the doll. I loved Genevieve, my little sister.  You were so beautiful and I was so grateful I had a sister!

Growing up, we were a decade a part and you were such a fun part of our house. You liked the spotlight. In fact, you made a spotlight everywhere you went. Now, you’re putting that spotlight on people who need a voice. Let me assure you that you are the perfect voice for the voiceless. You are the epitome of integrity, strength, and pure and utter goodness.

You might notice when we go to D.C., you are the only teenage sister there. Even if you don’t notice, I do. I’m extremely blessed to have you as a voice and a little sister. You are a force to be reckoned with and I pity anyone who tries to stop the good you are doing. Hopefully, people are smarter than to mess with you.

I look forward to having a front row seat to your adult life. We have incredible parents who taught us right from wrong, how to treat people, and most of all, they taught us how to love deeply and wholly. The guidelines they taught us have helped me in every aspect of my life. I know they will help you throughout college and the rest of your life.

Right now, I can’t stop bragging about how authentically awesome you are. I’m proud to call you my little sister and fellow advocate.

You are my sister. You are my best friend. You had a piece of my heart as Mom let me hold you for the first time, that piece has only gotten bigger.

I love you,

Hannah!   

God bless and good luck to all the graduates of 2017! Do amazing things! 

Love, 

Hannah!  

P.S. The next post will be about Loyola, I promise!