Yesterday afternoon, I got to drive Elizabeth and two of her closest friends to her High School Graduation. Rob drove her grandparents in another vehicle, Nick rode with the band, and the Uncles and Cousins met us there. Including Nick, who had the best seat of all of us, because the band sits near the stage, there were 12 of us there in Elizabeth’s honor.
It was almost magical – the gathering of our group there – first, just we three who rode with Elizabeth were in the queue along the sidewalk in front of Raleigh’s Convention Center. Then one-by-one, more of our party joined us as the line moved forward. By the time we were in the auditorium, which surprised me with its vastness and was much more warehouse-y than I’d expected. there were plenty of us to reserve seats for the remaining few. I had imagined it might be crazy, trying to hold seats or trying to find each other, but it was a breeze. I had wondered about whether everyone in our group would have easy conversation with those they did not know well – but of course, they did, because they are all awesome. I had hoped I would not drive everyone else crazy with my attention-to-detail issues – and I don’t think I did (or at least, they didn’t let on – thanks for that!)
Though all of Elizabeth’s family could not be physically at the graduation with us, all who were able to be there represented the others so well, it was as if no one was missing. I am overwhelmed with thankfulness for all they and theirs have done for Elizabeth as well as for Rob and me over the years. The support, love, advice, prayers, and friendship of many people have guided her and helped shape her into the young woman she is. Sitting amongst these dear ones made our tiny part of the great room feel like home.
The ceremony was student-driven and moved along at a good pace with professionalism and utmost respect for the graduates and for the “graduating.” The instrumental and choral music was beautiful, the speeches- thoughtful, smart and moving. My favorite part, though, was the reading of the names. With a class of 500, there were many, many names I did not recognize, but my heart leaped each time a name of a student I do know was called. My eyes would dart to the stage, which seemed a quarter mile away, and I watched their familiar forms cross the stage to shake the hand of their beloved, ever-smiling principal.
Watching Elizabeth’s friends graduate, I became keenly aware of sweet fellowship with many of our friends who were also there, who have also been an important part of our family’s support circle, but for whom I did not have to get tickets or save seats because they had their own. While I could see just one family we know from where we sat, I knew exactly where Nick was sitting and even received a text from the band director with a great photo of Elizabeth as she was on her way to get her diploma. As I pictured all their smiles and thought how we were all celebrating together, the room became cozy.
Once the names had all been read and tassels turned and hats tossed, we met up with Elizabeth and some of those students whose names we know for hugs, kisses and some photos, then made our way back home to celebrate together with more of the family – the Aunties the Grandfather who couldn’t make it to the ceremony. So many of the people we love, and all of them under our roof together – in a big heap, just the way I like it.
My heart is full to the point of overflowing with thankfulness. God is so good.
Kim Perry Writes 
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