As citizens from Atchafalaya, Bogafalaya, Cane, Mississippi, Pearl, and Sabine pick up this newspaper one last time, we in the press would like to leave you with a final message. When we first arrived at Boys State, we were surrounded by strangers wearing blue and red shirts. We didn’t know each other’s names, hometowns, or even which parish we would call home for the week. Yet it only took one simple question, “Where are you from?” to begin turning strangers into friends.
Over the course of the week, those introductions became conversations, conversations became friendships, and friendships became a community. Whether you were a Nationalist or a Federalist, from a neighboring parish or one across the state, you became part of something much larger than yourself. Politics may have divided us into parties, but Boys State united us in a shared experience.
This week challenged us to campaign, debate, vote, and lead. It gave us a hands-on understanding of government that no textbook could fully provide. More importantly, it reminded us that leadership is about people. The lessons learned inside the chambers and classrooms will stay with us, but so will the conversations in the dorms, the laughs shared during meals, and the friendships formed in just a few short days.
As quickly as it began, this week has come to an end. While it is difficult to say goodbye, we leave with memories that will last far longer than our time here. The pictures we took, the people we met, and the experiences we shared are what truly define Boys State.
Before leaving, take a moment to thank the people who made this week possible. Thank your JCs, PCs, SCs, SAs, and every member of the Boys State staff who dedicated their time to creating this experience. Their work behind the scenes allowed each of us to learn, grow, and succeed.
Our newly elected Governor Franklin Bridwell perhaps said it best: “Change is inevitable; growth is optional.” As we return home, the week may be over, but the opportunity to continue growing as leaders and citizens is just beginning.
From all of us in the press, thank you for letting us tell your stories throughout the week. We wish you success wherever your journey leads next. Farewell.