Chloe Levitz (HPHS Class of 2018)

 Most likely to. A game many of us are familiar with. A question often asked, “most likely to return to their hometown to raise their family”. Without hesitation, no matter where I am, or who I am with, my name is unanimously said and each time my reaction is the same. A proud smile. A badge of honor. At that moment I always think to myself “why would I raise my kids anywhere else”. 

I wish I could say that these last few days haven’t made me second guess my answer. Even more, I wish that an atrocity like the fatal shooting that occurred in Highland Park hasn’t made me second guess my faith in humanity. My faith in our country. 

I’ve found peace in knowing that while the present may not be what we hoped for, our future has the power to be just that. A place even stronger, safer and brighter than any could have imagined. I have seen my community come together to do the unimaginable. Instead of complaining about what hasn’t been done, highland park and it’s supporters will be the reason why things do get done. 

It is my hope that there will come a day when families will gather outside of Dairy Queen on a summer night for ice cream. That friends will find their way back to walker brothers for their infamous chocolate chippy’s and 49’ers. That kids will pick out stationary for their first summer away from HP at Ross Discount. 

I’m not exactly sure when that day will come. But I do know that it will. Because, I know that together we are #HPstrong.

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