My School is My Happy Place

 

Returning to my school after over a year and a half, I was filled with a flurry of mixed emotions; on one hand nervous about the adjustment and finding my way around again, on the other hand eager and relieved to go back to the sense of fun and normalcy, one thing we've all certainly missed.

The novelty of the situation made me feel a certain sense of wonder and interest in all the little things I'd forgotten about being in school, the moments I'll look back on with nostalgia one day.

For one thing, the constant sounds and activity- after so long spent sitting shut in a room with only a laptop, hearing the sudden cries of laughter and greetings in the corridors and the general clamour of a classroom were almost comforting in a way and being able to actually move around to different rooms between classes was a welcome break.

There's just something about the unique atmosphere a school has, which envelopes you the minute you enter the bustling halls. It's the camaraderie that comes with seeing familiar faces every day, everyone in the same uniform and classrooms yet each with a unique story and personality which, if you're lucky enough, you can unwrap like precious gifts.

Because much more pivotal than simply being in a school building is the people inside it- each and every one that touched your life in some way, whether the kindred spirits you shared the deepest conversations with you'll still talk to years from now, or ones we loved to joke with or had a trait you admire and try to instill in yourself. 

And of course, what really makes a school a place of joy are the teachers who go the extra mile, giving you lessons you won't find in books and you'll carry with you for life, who truly made the school like a second home.

In its essence, school is a place you build things- build friendships, connections, futures, careers, knowledge. But most importantly, building yourself; your values and dreams, and helping one another to build our happiness. 

Sana Muhamed, 12-G