graduation

At my old high school,
students smile in the black
robes of Graduation
as they walk down the aisle
and photo flashes bounce off glasses that reflect the light.
I'm watching these students, among parents
snapping pictures numerous enough to send away copies,
and the air is hot for being indoors--
trampled programs of commencement,
wadded up like trash, litter the gym floor.

The students are happy,
nervous, and sad to leave friends behind--
The girl and her best friend embrace.
They walk looking
at the faces, and I look too.
I want to know where
they're going, what they will accomplish
in life and love--
They pass on by,
students, ready to take on the world.