For the homecoming dance for the last three years, I wore dull, dark dresses that absorbed sunlight. I had covered up my eyes with dark makeup, hiding my true face. My hair chopped above my shoulders, remained unstyled.

This year, senior year, I wear a bright, sparkling blue dress, which shines in sunlight. I skip applying makeup. I do not need it to look beautiful. I take my hair, which is now below my shoulders, and tie it up. The skirt of my dress is covered in butterflies — the insects that symbolize change. 

Just like the butterflies, I have changed.