The long holiday of summer has ended and the dawn of a new academic year has begun. It is not only customary but important for us the give thanks to our Creator for life and the opportunity to improve ourselves. For many teens, this is a transitional period filled with trepidation and anxiety; some are moving on to a new school environment while others are entering the working world.

I remember going to high school for the first time. I was drowning in my uniform and my bag resembled a parachute; I looked like an infant trying to enlist in the army. The teachers seemed extra militant, trying their best to instil discipline while making some examples along the way to reinforce their point. These were clearly not the motherly primary school teachers to whom I was accustomed; the kind who were quick to nurture with hugs and smiles ... this was the secondary battalion known to many as high school.

Despite the many imposed guidelines, my main fear was the expected ragging from senior students and, at a boys' school, this seemed mandatory. I remember after orientation my friend was flipping a coin that accidentally dropped in front of some fifth-formers. Everyone stopped as they gave him a cordial gesture which suggested it was OK to pick it up. My friend relented and half-way in the act, the rear of his head was greeted with several rigorous slaps and his oversized bag did little to help his fall. The rest of us did what any concerned friend would do - scatter and run to the nearest refuge for safety.

Even though it was funny, I was apprehensive about having a good laugh as the senior boys were getting every first-former. They moved so strategically and were so focused, it was as though they had a register, and each time we moved from classes or to the canteen we were in 'prey' territory. If captured and you waved the white flag of tears, the chiding was only magnified.

LATOUCHE

Alas, midday arrived and the spotlight was shone on yours truly. While eating lunch under a tree, five fifth-formers surrounded me. Trying to keep my cool while being drenched in sweat, I asked if they wanted me to leave. They said no and began to reveal their identity stating that they were talent scouts disguised as students and were looking for the next big artiste in Jamaica. They then went for a desk, and, with intimidating gestures, instructed me to stand on it. I was told it was an audition that could make or break me. I immediately performed a series of medleys of hit songs. After five minutes of an annoying falsetto they clapped and sent me to my class.

At the end of the day everyone has to pay his dues, which usually makes us stronger and wiser. Ironically, some of these experiences will be archived as our most memorable moments in life.

Have a wonderful and productive academic year. Do all you can to make your parents and guardians proud, teachers feel appreciated and help your friends to be better people!