It was convocation day here -- a week later than usual due to schedule changes earlier in the term due to COVID. It was a great day for photos with sunshine most of the day. Temperatures were cooler but everyone would be in academic gowns, so those can help when processing outside. I watched the Xaverian Farewell as it live-streamed. The time capsule, which is opened at their 25th year reunion, had the usual mementos of activities over the past four years. This year there were several serious items. the first item placed by an international student from Mauritius was his unused air ticket home. He was in transit to Toronto when he got the e-mail noting the borders of his home nation were closed. He and several other international students remained on campus when all other students had been sent home. Other contributions included a rapid test, mask and a Ukrainian flag.
I feel nostalgic on this weekend. While I didn't attend ceremonies this year, it reminded me of my convocation days. They provided me a sense of closure and a mixture of sadness and excitement -- sadness for leaving that stage of life behind and excitement for the next steps planned. Now, I see the graduates with their lives ahead of them -- so much capacity and expertise going out into the world. All of this boosts my feeling of hope for the future.
I thought of friends from my degree programs today along with the local graduates. Song lyrics present the ending and beginning of this ceremonial day. I smiled when I realized the artist name -- so that is for the Human Nutrition graduates today <smile>. Keep safe. Enjoy!
Graduation (Friends Forever) -- Vitamin C
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