This year began with mixed emotions.
On one hand, we started late because of the strike—which was kind of nice, like an extra bit of vacation.
On the other hand, the consequences of starting late were a bit stressful.
And when the school year really began—when we finally walked through those gates—it felt different. The same familiar faces, the same school, and yet… something felt new. There was a sense in the air that 11th grade was serious now—but also exciting.
This year was challenging, filled with countless obstacles: an ongoing war, Houthi attacks, wildfires—and of course, how could anyone forget the stress of the matriculation exams?
But in between all those challenges, I managed—to grow, to learn, and most importantly, to enjoy.
Because of all that hardship, my achievements this year went far beyond grades (though I definitely invested a lot there too).
I found ways to give back: I organized volunteer activities in memory of fallen soldiers, supported victims of the fires, and tried to help wherever help was needed.
But I also learned when to pause, when to push forward—and not to lose myself in it all.
I discovered that even when everything feels overwhelming or scary, there’s always room for what really matters: friends, family, tiny moments of laughter in class, or even just a quiet walk with good music in your ears.
And even though there were moments when I secretly wished this year would just pass—and quietly—it turned out to be anything but quiet.
Yet to my surprise, I’m ending it with a good feeling.
Proud. Satisfied. Even a little bit happy.
Tired? Definitely.
But I feel like I made the most of every moment.
I wish for myself—and for everyone—a summer of true freedom.
A calm, quiet break, with space to breathe.
And most importantly—that the hostages will be freed and join us in that freedom too.
