I write this today to all the graduates who are missing out on prom dresses, suits, corsages, dates, speeches, awards, dances and parties, and all the special events that go along with a graduation.
We, your families, friends and communities, feel your loss. We wanted to celebrate with you. We wanted to hug you, to shake your hand, shed a tear or two and burst with pride as you crossed the stage on your special night. But most of all, we wanted to wish you the best in your future.
We have watched you grow into the fine young people you are today, and we reflect upon the care and worry that went into that growth. Because most of you are from rural communities or farms, I make the analogy of comparing your lives to the raising of a crop.
You grew from tiny seeds, tender and trusting, reaching tentatively for the sun and the rain while nudging other seedlings for space to grow. As you began to grow tall and strong, you and your families weathered storm clouds on the horizon and worked hard to keep out the wild oats. You became stronger and more resilient.
Your neighbours watched you closely, knowing that healthy crops are good for communities.
Your family fertilized and nourished the soil to help you grow. Then suddenly, before we knew it, it seemed as if you grew too fast and harvest was set to begin.
Your family, your neighbours, your communities, recall the nurturing that helped you flourish. The laughter and tears. The worry and the love.
And now, after all is said and done, we know the pride in who you’ve grown into — the bumper crop who are ready to take on the world.
I wish everyone of you all the best and good wishes on your future plans.
Congratulations, grads of 2020.
