Long time readers know that I have been going to Otterbein University, pursuing a college degree, for several years. Achieving that goal is finally within reach; I will graduate on May 19. Commencement plans are well underway.
Tickets reserved? Check? Family travel plans made? Check. Cap and gown picked up? Check. Announcements ready? Check.
Then, two weeks ago, this envelope came in the mail:
Inside the envelope was an invitation to parents of graduates to “Celebrate your Senior!” by purchasing an advertisement in the school newspaper, the Tan & Cardinal. Of course, the T&C had traditional-aged student and their parents in mind. My husband and I got a good chuckle out of the idea of him placing this ad (we are not going to!).
Yet, I still have the envelope. I can’t bring myself to throw it away. I keep thinking about it.
“To the parents of:”
My Dad died in 2004. Mom, last year. As German immigrants with the equivalent of an 8th and 10th grade education they were proud, even somewhat in awe, as I dipped my toe in the collegiate waters several years ago. I had recently been promoted to my first management role and felt I could be more successful and have more future opportunities if I furthered my education.
Mom and Dad would have been beaming at the idea of their daughter finally graduating from college.
Today, I am thankful for unexpected reminders of my parents, and the pause those reminders give me to reflect on them..
