To the Class of 2017

Last year I wrote a letter to the class of 2016 (it's still one of my favorite posts!) . Today is the last day of school for my kiddos. If I were to speak at promotion, (8th grade graduation) I would try to tell them something like this

To the Class of 2017:
You have the power to change the world. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise.
Do not let fear stop you from trying something. If it sounds like fun, go for it. Even if none of your friends are doing it.
Take risks.
Be silly. Don't grow up to fast. Enjoy this time. You will want to relive (parts of it) this time later.

Get outside and explore. The Internet can only show you so much. You need to experience it.
While you are outside, stop texting!
On that same line of thought, try talking with your parents and siblings more.
Pictures on Snapchat are not secrets. Don't be dumb.

Class of 2017, the next four years have the power to shape your future either way. Don't forget that. You will make mistakes, but what you do from those mistakes will show what kind of adult you are becoming. This is the start to the next chapter in your lives.

What advice would you give to any of the graduates this season?