Another group of high school seniors anxiously anticipate graduation day. For most, these weeks in May have been activity filled as students prepared for final exams, sports teams finished their gaming season, and musical groups put on final performances for the public to enjoy. For them, and for their parents, this is a bittersweet moment in time.

On Wednesday evening of this past week I experienced that combo feeling of sadness and pleasure. While listening to the RCHS choir’s pep concert, which included performances by the school’s jazz band, a flood of memories leaped out from the stage. My oldest son was among several students who were taking their final bows to a packed-house at the Laughlin Center.

Graduation time is always an emotional experience for parents and students alike. It represents both an ending and a beginning. On one side are the feelings of relief that another academic year has been successfully completed. Opposite is knowing that years of familiarity are about to abruptly end. I imagine times like these are when people silently think, “be careful what you wish for.” Sometimes we count the days for something to occur (in this case graduation), and then when the time comes we are unprepared to let it go. I think I am there now.

Watching my son grow and mature through his school years has been a joy for me. Naturally there were moments when it seemed as though there were too many events to attend. In the end though, I was always happy to go and very proud to witness his accomplishments, sometimes with tears only a parent would understand. To say the least, I couldn’t be more pleased to know that I have played some role in his upbringing. It would also be an understatement to say I am pleasantly touched to know there have been so many wonderful role models who gave to my son what I may not have been able to give at one time or another. Teachers, grandparents, aunts and uncles, parents of friends, and even my own best friend from elementary school have all been instrumental in raising this person of good character, my son. I thank them all for that.

As a mother I can’t help but still think of him as my young son but when I view him amongst his comrades I see the reality. He is now a person who has developed his own ideals about life and more importantly, he has become a young man with a multitude of talents which will serve him well in the future. As much as I will miss watching his high school performances, I will treasure the opportunity to see where the future leads him.

For Daniel and his classmates, I wish you all well with your endeavors. At times it may not be easy but you must remember each step is an important imprint on your adventurous journey. For the parents of these children, cherish the memories and enjoy watching your children set off into the world.

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