People have probably been at protests and marches today, but it was commencement today at school, so that's where I was.
I'm so inordinately proud of my students. Even if someone has had just the one class with me, I'm so happy for them and excited to see them robed, getting their diploma. We have a gauntlet at the end of the ceremony (we have a gauntlet that bookends their opening convocation too) where we clap the students out to the sound of our homegrown bagpipers and it's one of my favorite traditions. It's a good thing we're a small school, because I'll clap earnestly for every student going on stage whether I know them or not.
Pic: A colleague took this pic and said I looked "stupid happy." "Are you happy someone is leaving?" they quipped. Actually, I'm sad I won't see some amazing students as they head off into the world. And I'm thankful for the kind cards some of them gave me. I'll treasure all of it forever.
Post title from that Jeb Bush moment. Remember when that was funny? Also: One of my secret superpowers is that I'm good at getting applause going in a crowd. That first person who starts clapping? That's sometimes me.
14 comments:
Congrats.
You look so joyful! I am sure it is bittersweet to send these students off into the world!!
I didn't protest yesterday either, but I didn't have as good or joyful a reason. I was just too tired/burned out.
I couldn't go out yesterday either -- Easter with the kidlets. You look wonderful -- it's a great photo and so happy!
I took a break from protesting to cheer on a friend who was nervous to try on wedding dresses. She needed someone to be her hype woman, and in the midst of all the hard/terrible in my circle of the world JOY MATTERS MORE THAN EVER!!!
So I guess that I did protest! I protested fear; I protested pessimism. :)
You are a true delight and it brings me vicarious joy to know that you are investing so deeply into your students! You are definitely a fellow hype woman; the world needs us!
Love and the comfort food of your choice being sent your way!
Steph
That's a good superpower to have! And- I get choked up at all graduation ceremonies, whether I know the people or not.
Thanks, Gillian!
Thanks, Lisa... It so is... Safe travels!
I would consider taking care of yourself as a form of joy, Steph. You and Beth have been doing A LOT and are right in the center of things, I'm not surprised. Hugs.
Thanks, Jeanie! I hope you got the kind of boost I got from being around younger people!
Jenny, I LOVE knowing you're a softie in that way <3
Steph, I read your comment midday and it inspired me to make and send out the invites to Nu's graduation party this evening. No to fear; no to pessimism. Yes, to looking forward to celebrating those we love and creating moments of joy as we fight for justice.
And ha--yes, I guess I am a hype person! I like it!
Thank you so much for sharing this.
I love that you are sending out some good young people and thinkers into this world. We need them.
XOXO, Nance; thank you.
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