Reflections on graduation day

Graduation from high school is a big moment … a big moment for all concerned. The students are usually thrilled as visions of “never coming back to this place” set in … the nostalgia part takes a little time. Parents look at these “almost” adults and wonder where the time has gone with equal parts joy and sadness. Grandparents wonder, for just a fleeting moment, if they’ll be around for the next big life event. I guess what I’m trying to say is it’s a day of many emotions.

The New London High School Class of 2023 graduated on May 21 at 2 p.m. on a beautiful spring afternoon. It was a perfect day as people gathered on the football field to watch loved ones take the first big step to independence.

Salutatorian Natalie Burden welcomed everyone. She hinted at the bittersweet aspect of the day when she said, “This year there is no ‘first day back.’ Instead we all head in different directions creating our own path without the help of the teachers, coaches, and mentors we’ve always known. We leave here with the uncertainty of when we will see our classmates faces again, if at all.” Poignant yes, but full of possibilities as they see what the world has to offer as they follow that personal path.

The Valedictorian Kade Benjamin spoke next. He thanked the adults that assisted in the class’ education. He cited their many achievements in all its various forms. He urged his classmates to make a difference in the world. What could be a more positive message to these young men and women as they find their personal path?

With the last speaker, the graduation speaker, we come full circle. A 2002 graduate of NLHS, his path has taken him around the world and then brought him home again. He’s achieved much as he and his family make a difference in this, their corner of the world. Jesse Howard urged the graduates to never settle for mediocrity. He ended by telling them to never forget where they came from … really good advice. Because wherever life takes you, that path thing again, home will always be a part of who you are and a part of who you become. We hope they really believe their class motto … “impossible is for the unwilling.”

With that, awards were given and diplomas passed out as the tassels on their mortar boards were moved to the left. The day was a celebratory send-off, as they left the high school as its newest alumni.

It truly was a wonderful day.