The one event many can’t wait for and others dread! High school reunions are more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane, they’re a special time where old friends and school mates can reunite and relive the past, at least one more time. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with your younger self and the people who helped shape your formative years. Attending a high school reunion can boost feelings of gratitude and social connection, it’s always good to see old friends and faces.

Reunions give us the opportunity to visit with those we’ve lost track of, while spending an evening or two reminiscing about old times. They become more special and precious as the years go by. As each year passes you see fewer and fewer attending, “for some odd reason!”

Many classes only have reunions on a five or ten year basis, so when you hit the 20 year one it’s a lot of fun just trying to figure out who is who. You also realize you’re on the downhill side.

When asked if they’re going to the reunion, some say “well I’m thinking about it” others will say “wouldn’t miss it” and then there are those who say “what for?”

Even for those who aren’t sure, just remember it could be your last one. No matter what, there will be old classmates waiting to see you. They’ll have the event well organized, putting forth extra effort to make it a great time for all.

Many people live hundreds of miles away and don’t often, if ever, get back to their home town, and for them it usually turns into an event they’ll never forget. By reconnecting with old friends, they reignite those old friendships, forge new ones, and build a stronger sense of community.

Remember it’s not just about romanticizing the past, it’s also about all the happy memories and experiences that have shaped us into who we are today. Small town reunions are often the best ones, because everyone knows everyone, and remembers something about them, usually something that can’t be spoken.

Pondering on who was the best looking guy or gal back then versus now, is always a fun part of reunions. Oftentimes that great athlete isn’t athletic anymore, or the best cheerleader can’t bend over to tie her shoes now. Even if you don’t recognize someone, once you find out who they are you’ll be excited. It’s always fun when someone comes up and starts talking to you and you don’t know who it is. Ever had that happen?

To have a great time, forget all negative memories and focus on only positive things. Tap into those fond memories, and cultivate gratitude for life’s experiences.

Approach conversations with curiosity and an open mind. Just be yourself (good or bad) most people want to see you as they remember you. Authenticity is key to meaningful connections. Get reconnected, exchange contact information, and stay in touch with new and old friends. High school reunions can be a wild ride of emotions, and can actually boost feelings of laughter and tears of joy. Reminiscing about past memories and experiences of our youth and school days will normally brighten your time. Some things you might have forgotten may be brought up and become a treasured memory for ever.

Reunions can be especially meaningful because they allow us to reconnect with those that remember us before career titles, family responsibilities, and adulthood. This shared history builds instant belonging and can even spark conversation that might be better off left out. Don’t expect everyone to be the same or for things to go back to how they were.

Forget any hard feelings from the past, shift your attention to the good times and memories you’ve shared with people. Try to see things from others’ perspectives. Stay close to a friend, having someone you trust by your side can make things easier. Stay positive, and focus on the present moment and the connections you’re making.

After high school nearly everyone’s path becomes different. People have different priorities, opportunities, and challenges. Instead of comparing, ask others about their experiences and listen genuinely.

Cheer people on and show genuine interest in their lives. Enjoy your class reunion and help others enjoy theirs. Don’t drink too much, stay out too late, “And for Pete’s sake keep Politics out of it!”