A Letter to High School and College Seniors in Minnesota

Dear High School and College Seniors in Minnesota,

With all the craziness going on in the world, there are a lot of questions that we may not have answers to for a very long time, but just know there are folks thinking about you. Your senior year is about creating memories that last a lifetime and enjoy the thought that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. No one may understand the feelings you are having, but just know we are thinking of you.

You may never get your prom back, your spring senior season for the sport, spirit week, performances, or most importantly your graduation ceremony. Just know those moments don't define who you are. Everyone understands that you are frustrated, angry and have a million other emotions going through you right now because everything that is going on is out of your control. Just know you aren't alone! If you need to vent, talk or just do something to get your mind off of everything going on, there is always someone willing to help. That could be a parent, friend, coworker or complete stranger.

My junior year of college, I was told that the throwing program on my schools track team was being cut. I felt angry, betrayed, frustrated and went into a panic mode where I was trying to figure out how I could get one last season in before the real world hit me like a ton of bricks. I have this strange feeling that many of you are feeling that exact way I felt four years ago! I was able to compete my senior year, but it wasn't how I wanted it to be!

All I can tell you friend is we are going to get through this together. Even if that means this summer we have to make memories, we'll make it happen. If you want, we can get all dressed up and dance in a parking lot, go to a park and have a mock graduation ceremony or we can go to a sports facility to play a game and do a mock senior night ceremony before the fun begins.

Please know I am here for you and if I can help in any way, feel free to reach out! I know I'm not going through this with you, but I've had similar situations in my life. My heart bleeds for you! I wish I could be more of a help!

Sincerely,

Paisley Dunn, empathetic Rochester DJ