Both high school and college graduations hold special memories for me.
I graduated from a small high school. Instead of wearing a cap and gown, I wore a long, bouffant, sky blue, organdy dress, as did all the girls in my class.
After the ceremony, a party was given in my honor at my home. Many friends and relatives came for the festivities. I was the eldest grandchild on both sides of the family, so I received a lot of attention. I thoroughly enjoyed being in the limelight.
I went on to college, earning a bachelor’s degree at South Dakota State University in 1950. I had the honor of sharing this day with my uncle Roy, who had returned from World War II and was receiving his second engineering degree.
This was an extra special day for my mother – seeing her younger brother and daughter graduating on the same day. Aunt Helen was very proud to watch her husband receive his degree.
A few years later, I understood Aunt Helen’s pride when my husband walked across the same stage to receive his bachelor’s degree.
My husband and I have proudly watched our children receive their high school diplomas and later their college degrees.
We’ve also been privileged to see all of our grandchildren graduate from high school. Four of them have received college degrees, and two have gone on to earn master’s degrees. What proud moments those have been for us.
We have one granddaughter in college now, so we anticipate attending her graduation in a few years.
I’m concerned about how my children and grandchildren will fare in their chosen fields with the difficult times our nation is facing. However, I’m thankful that they’ve had good training, support from family, and a godly upbringing to give them strength and wisdom to cope with whatever lies ahead.
Sinai, S.D.
