As the summer sun slowly set, casting long shadows across the school courtyard, Lily couldn't help but feel a familiar flutter of nerves in her stomach. Tomorrow would be the first day of seventh grade, and she couldn't decide if she was more excited or terrified.

Lily had always been a bit of a worrier, and the thought of navigating a new school, making new friends, and tackling more challenging classes had her mind spinning. She replayed the first day of sixth grade in her head, remembering how overwhelmed she had felt, getting lost in the crowded hallways and struggling to find her locker.

"What if I forget my schedule again?" she worried aloud, pacing back and forth in her bedroom. "Or what if no one wants to sit with me at lunch?" Lily's mind raced with a million other "what-ifs," each one more daunting than the last.

Just then, Lily's mom knocked on the door and popped her head in. "Hey, kiddo, how are you feeling about tomorrow?" she asked, her warm smile immediately putting Lily at ease.

"I'm nervous, Mom," Lily admitted, her shoulders slumping. "What if I don't know anyone in my classes? Or what if the work is too hard?"

Lily's mom sat down on the bed and pulled her into a comforting hug. "I know change can be scary, but I also know you're going to do great," she reassured. "Remember, everyone else is probably feeling just as nervous as you. Just focus on being kind, and you'll make friends in no time."

Lily nodded, feeling a little better. Her mom was right - she had faced new challenges before and come out stronger. With a deep breath, Lily resolved to embrace the first day jitters and approach the new school year with an open mind and a positive attitude.