With the school year coming to a close before we know it, seniors are going to give their life speeches.

If you don’t already know what it means to give life in BBYO, it is a ceremony where the graduating seniors tell their experience in BBYO. At least in my region, when the seniors are giving life it normally happens late at night. Depending on individual chapters or regions, there can be tons of seniors making it last till 2 am sometimes. This tradition is super important for the seniors because it is their last official BBYO activity they get to participate in. Candles are lit, tears are shed, laughter is heard, and BBYO items are passed on to the next generation of BBGs and Alephs. 

Many people fall asleep during this. Me being one of them. I regret it so much. From what I got to listen to I learned so much and felt inspired from the stories I heard. Whether it’s just a stupid little story about someone they dated or that senior mentions you as someone who played an important part in their BBYO experience. Like many others, I have already started writing down what I want to say when I give life. I am only a Sophomore, but I still have so many stories to tell.

These seniors have been waiting for up to 5 years to tell these stories. Don’t be the person to ruin it for them. Not only do you not want to miss the stories but you never know a senior could give you their chapter, regional, or international life! The FOMO you would feel if someone shouted you out as a member who made an impact on their experience throughout BBYO, and you were asleep.

One of the best parts of life (besides the stories) are the things you receive. Many of these clothing items or candles have been passed down for years! I personally have sweatpants that are from 2011. These items that you receive will eventually go to a younger member that just listened to your life!

So grab a blanket and pillow, bring snacks, sit back and relax, and stay awake!

Moral of the story, don’t fall asleep in life. You will regret it for the rest of your time in BBYO!