A Tale of Two Graduations
Upon arriving, we formed a line at the door, waiting for them to be open. Our goal was to find the perfect seat. This moment had been anticipated for the past 4 years. The stage was set. Family and friends of the graduates poured into the gymnasium. I looked around but felt no ties to anyone there except my immediate family. I felt no ties to the school, no pride or school spirit. I did, however, have direct eye contact with my girl. This girl who was about to become a college graduate. My heart swelled with pride; tears fell down my face. She glanced my way a few times but refused to make direct eye contact. Her goal was to not cry. I saw plenty of tears over the years as she cried over assignments and pressures of adjusting to college demands. I was there on the days she fought against crippling anxiety that literally kept her from attending classes. I heard how she stood up for what she believes in, knowing it would not be the popular opinion. There were classes she hated and ther...