I remember as I walked into my homeroom for the very last time that evening to get my cap and gown on, I remember thinking back to all of the friendships that were made and the fun that was had growing up. The incredibly uplifting good times shared with each other and the heart wrenching low points, we had been there for each other and that forged our friendships into bonds that hopefully would remain over time. I wondered silently to myself if I left any kind of mark behind that would ever let anyone know that I had passed through there at some point in time. It struck as a somewhat odd thought for me. I really dont have an ego and I would be the first person to make light of my shortcomings, but for some reason I want to know that I made a difference somewhere as I go through life. My name being written on the background scrums of scenery for the musicals will fade in time or be painted over. The saxophone that I played will eventually be replaced. The physical remnants of time spent there will slowly wear away until there is nothing left. At that point, you can only hope that you managed to touch someone's life out there for the better. I don't know for certain why that idea is important to me. Maybe I just want to do my part to hopefully leave the world a slightly better place then it was before I came along. If I'm able to make one person smile or laugh and forget their troubles, or even just help them through a rough time in their lives, then I feel useful.
The evening was warm and as the sun began to set, we all lined up and started the walk down to the stadium for the actual commencement ceremony. I was strange walking through the doors that last time as a student there, knowing that I wouldnt be back there again in that capacity again. We could hear the band playing 'Pomp and Circumstance' off in the distance over our excited chattering to each other. We entered the stadium and walked to our seats. Now the excrutiating time came where we had to sit and listen to all of the speeches and addresses before we could get what we were all gathered together for. Soon it was time for my home room and we all rose and got in line to have our names announced. Finally, I heard my name and walked across to receive my diploma, then right back to my seat again. In some ways, it seemed a bit anti climactic. I couldnt resist opening it to look at it. Thirteen years of work acknowledged with a small piece of paper. That piece of paper is what was going to enable me to go on and further my education.
It was really a turning point in my life. From that point on, many of the friends that I surrounded myself with growing up would be gone on to their own pursuits as well. The door was opened for each of us to really begin our own lives and forge our own identities. It was a daunting thought in some aspects. Looking back, I would have changed very little of the time leading up to that day. I think I probably would have studied a lot harder if given the chance again.
It really was closing the door on one stage of my life and preparing to walk through a new one that just opened before me. What was on the other side, I had no idea but was looking forward to finding out.