Out of My Mind : Graduation commencement of new life
Posted on Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Watching Sara walk across the stage to receive her college diploma, I remembered all the firsts - the first tooth, the first step, the first word. How quickly the time has gone by. My mother and grandmother always said it, but you hardly believe it until it happens to you.
When Sara was 6, I bought her a "big"doll, not a baby doll. For some reason, 6 seemed like a big girl.
When she was 10, a friend threw a princess party for her best friend and her ushering them into the double digits. Again, we thought she was a big girl.
At 13, and 16, again milestones were passed and recognized with special celebrations.
And, now, here she is, officially an adult entering into the working world. Here was my first-born, a young lady ready to enter the real world from academia. Although she had worked through her years at school, now it will be different.
And, on my lap, sat my youngest - a 6-year-old whispering in my ear that his cap and gown are white, unlike his sister's black cap and gown. Yes, the youngest will graduate from kindergarten later this month. Briefly he placed Sara's cap on his head. Of course, it covered his face, but he felt big.
I remember my own college graduation. Sometimes it seems like yesterday; other times it seems like eons ago. So much has changed that it's hard to comprehend all the decisions that lead to where we now are. This I know, upon graduation, I thought I was well-educated and had many of the answers. Over the years, I realized life is the best teacher after all.
Saturday, Pea Ridge High School seniors will receive their diplomas and disperse to college, jobs, military. So, they commence - begin their adult lives, enter into the wide world beyond. The lessons they learned here have formed the foundation for their tomorrow.
Congratulations, seniors. May you honestly and courageously face the challenges ahead and bring honor to your name and your community.
FEEDBACK:
Something to say about this topic? Submit a Letter to the Editor online