Tonight marked the beginning of the most hectic week up ahead since... Well, a very long time. Probably busier than any period of time in school ever was. But in a good sort of way, rather than in the evil dreaded way that we face the school equivalent of "busy" times.

So David, Lachlan, Chao and I made our way down to Tandoori Junction at Glen Waverley beneath an overcast and dreary sky that threatened to pour down on us at any time. The weather strangely reflected the feelings that went around tonight at the Debating Dinner though. We were kind of under-dressed, but that was part of the deal after all (they had to find SOME way to convince us to come). That being said, I think that it was really worth the effort. Strangely, up to this point, the end of school and school life has been looming, and I have just been continuing as if nothing happened, simply because I really felt like there was nothing to lose. But tonight proved me quite wrong. The sense of community was stronger than ever, and amidst the emotional speeches and deep feelings of gratitude, thankfulness and just blissful reflection, I really found that perhaps I was leaving something behind.

I suppose this is why they encourage you to get involved, even in Year 12. The realisation of what my friends and I had been a part of hit home like a bullet. Lauren is truly quite an amazing person, and I really can't think of anyone more suited to the role of debating prefect. She played that role pretty much flawlessly, even integrating her own style and sense into the entire plot. It turned out magnificently, and what a way to wrap the year up. There were reflections, "Oscars", hilarious moments and awards, recalled and laughed about all over again.

Despite the fact that our group never properly mixed into the group very much below surface acquaintances at all, simply the sense of belonging and achievement was more than enough bonding. The farewell for the Year 12s was especially sad.



This is our official debating flag, started by Lauren this year. We were the first batch to have our names put down in history as the first Year 12's to leave our mark on this flag. Perhaps, one day, umpteen years down the road, that flag might bring the emotion flooding back.

On reflection, it occurred to me that perhaps I should have got more involved in senior school life (stereotype huh), sadly true. Well, it's too late now. I did do quite a lot of things in the past few years, just not that much in this respect.

Overall, tonight, probably more than any other night, showed me the true worth of the effort we put into debating. Once again, a tribute to Lauren Waugh and the coordinators, as well as the council, for such a successful year. This one's going down in history.

Tomorrow is MANIFEST! Melbourne Anime Festival, it's big. And I have to leave for it in about 7 hours exactly. Yeah, I really should sleep, very soon. We expect to be out for at least 14 hours. I fear for my bank account.

I get sunday off, hopefully I get another post off (with pictures hopefully :P) before I then leave for International Camp for Monday and Tuesday. Yeah, you see why I'm busy >.<, and I really have to go now.

Cya.