Day 4 - 126 -- Journeys

Its been an emotional day -- the first of two such major days this weekend. This afternoon a large group of students joined the President's Circle of Young Alumni. An honours student I have been working with this year was one of the new crew, so I was invited to this event for the first time. It was wonderful to see the families, friends, faculty and staff there in support of these outstanding student leaders. This evening was the official Xaverian Farewell. Students, faculty and staff in academic regalia (students without hoods until tomorrow at convocation) gathered to reflect on the years that the class of 2017 have been on campus. A new tradition began with the filling of a time capsule to be opened at their 10 year homecoming. It was humorous and covered the high points of the past four years. Sadly, the usual candle-lit honour guard outside the chapel had to be altered due to rain. We were reminded that their first gathering as a group at the Xaverian Welcome the day before classes began in first year, also involved big rain. A student said to me that it seemed to have come full circle with the Farewell and likely convocation tomorrow will become fully indoor events. It seemed a positive approach to the fun of the weekend.

When one of the class speakers reflected on the past years, she noted that at times things had been curious and magical at the same time. The journey they have taken together, will take on new directions after tomorrow. Excitement for the future mixed with the sadness of saying goodbye permeates the weekend. I expect to see a lot of smiles and some tears tomorrow -- which begins at 7:45 AM with me assisting with organizing students for the march into the hall.

The song I share today deals with magic and journeys together. It is a great example of psychedelic rock. Enjoy!

Magic Carpet Ride -- Steppenwolf