Graduation Day (Cal State!)

Today dawns brightly with the memory that something wonderful has happened. A Bachelor's of Nursing has been conferred, and at least one happy family is ecstatic. Daddy has graduated!

Three small ones watched from above, as masses of people marched slowly forward and took their seats. The littlest didn't really understand it, and thought of sleep. There were so many hundreds of people that it was hard to see their dad among them. But finally mommy pointed ("There he is!"), and they saw. His hand and arm were waving, right at them, and he smiled. Mommy and daddy beamed their huge smiles at each other. It was a happy moment.

At times like these one realizes that it takes a family to gain a Nursing degree! The five of them might just as well have marched up onto that stage, to receive. The small girl wanted to. She wished so badly to go up there right now and see everything from close. But mommy said they must stay together, so she kept her eyes on that spot where he had waved.

The almost-seven year old understood best because he had just finished 1st grade. His teacher gave him a report card that said he had 'passed' - which was the same (mommy said) as graduating. Daddy's diploma was kind of like a report card; something that said he was done, and didn't have to go back to that place again. It was all very important and impressive.  

Looking at the photos reminded the SconeLady of yet another graduation day at Cal State. That same campus, the same colors flying, hundreds of people all crammed into a huge space; being handed a diploma with 'Master of Arts, Education' (1998) boldly printed along the front. At one point sitting nervously, and frantically searching the crowds for where the SconeLady's young son might have disappeared to ('Wait - why isn't he sitting where I put him..? Arghhhh!'). 

One day, perhaps in 2025, we will watch our next generation begin to claim their own milestones. I can see ahead, a bit. Someone tall, and confident, with a firm stride and steady eyes..

But for now, let me hold them on my lap, for just a little while longer.

See you along the way!

the SconeLady