One of my favorite songs of all time is “Freedom” by Wham! A song I unknowingly stumbled upon about a year or so ago, and ever since has held its rightful throne at the top of all my playlists.

I’ve never been one to really analyze the lyrics within a song. My criteria for music has always fallen along the “damn, this hits” type- a trait I’m not necessarily proud of, but it’s always been a vital part of who I am.

Last week I actually gave George Michael a chance, and decided to dive into what “Freedom” really is. I thought to myself, “What better time to uncover this than my last month of high school?” All that’s discussed anymore is “How many days until freedom?” and “So close to graduation!” We put this sense of freedom from the system on a pedestal as seniors, and rightfully so. I too am exhausted from the 7 a.m. wake-ups the past 12 years, and could not be happier about waving goodbye to all I’ve known my whole life.

At the same time, however, I don’t really want freedom. I love high school. I love my friends, I love my mom making my lunch in a brown bag every morning since 5th grade (her lunches were always better than dad’s) and I love saying “Love you!” on the way out the door every morning. I treasure driving my two little brothers to school every morning- I would never actually say this if you asked me, but watching those two grow and mature in such a short time makes you realize how quick these years truly are.

I wrote this senior essay on a whip. I know. But as I listen to “Freedom” for the 11th time in a row, digesting the lyrics, I realize George Michael was always right. I don’t want your freedom, South. All I want right now is you.