As “Pomp
& Circumstance” filtered through the air, the seniors filed in and took
their places together for the last time.
What exactly
is “Pomp & Circumstance?” It is a Triumphal march to a processional tune
composed by Sir Edward Elgar on 19 October 1901. Elgar took the phrase "pomp
and circumstance" from Shakespeare's "Othello. In Act III, Scene III,
the title character refers to the "pride, pomp and circumstance
The spirit-stirring drum, th'ear-piercing fife,
The royal banner, and all quality,
Pride, pomp, and circumstance of glorious war!
In the United States, the Trio section "Land
of Hope and Glory" of March No. 1 is often known as "Pomp and
Circumstance" or as "The Graduation March" and is played at
virtually all high school and some college graduation ceremonies.
Researching
the origins of this traditional exercise, I listened to the tune and even after
all these years, I can still feel the swell of pride I felt when I marched
through that gymnasium with 268 other graduates. Row-by-row we shuffled to our
seats to the strains of “Pomp & Circumstance.” I took my place in not quite
the last row, to sit through countless boring speeches, accolades, and words of
encouragement from the principal, teachers and students. Then the roll-call
began. Because my last name became with “S” I had a long wait before I received
my hard-earned diploma. Meanwhile, I joked with those fellow students who sat
next to me, however, it was the first time in four years that I had because I
was not a popular gal. No matter. We talked, joked and enjoyed the time. What I
remember most, other than getting the diploma, was when one of those popular
guys asked me why didn’t we talked before. Why didn’t he get to know me better?
I just smiled, and said “Oh well. Too bad, so sad.” No, I really didn’t say
that. It just felt good that he felt sorry and I didn’t. I was on to bigger
places. Then I received my diploma. 
My husband,
Keith, graduated high school the same year I did. His ceremony lasted much
longer since there were 378 graduates in his class. I asked him what he
remember. About the same thing I did then recalled when the ceremony was over
how all the graduates swung their cap’s tassel from the left to the right
signifying you graduated. You made it! 
When the
ceremonies were over, some went to their homes for a big family party and
others went out to restaurants. I think much of the same things happen today.
Gifts and cards were given to the graduate, ever so thankful when the gift was
monetary. Cameras flashed, well-wishes given, food and drinks consumed, and
more congratulations offered as everyone went home. Then the grad sat in their
room and counted the cash and checks, checked out the gifts, and then it all finally
hit home . . . No more school! At least for now or until, and if, the grad went
onto college. 
When I
started to gather my things for the family museum, I was thrilled when I opened
a box that had my high school yearbook, diploma (in bad shape because my father
had saved it among his greasy tools) and tassel. In Keith’s box was his
diploma, sports letters and senior picture. All of these precious mementoes’
are in our family museum. I also found some cards that somehow got saved. Not
only from high school but from Grammar school as well. They are an absolute
hoot! Very retro now. I will post about them tomorrow. 
Do you still
have your diploma, tassel, yearbook, and cards? If not, I’m sure you wish you
had. Perhaps if you do a little searching you may find them. You would be
surprised how family members hold onto things, stored in boxes long forgotten. If
you ask, they just might say, “Hey sure. I think there are some boxes in the
attic/basement that may have some of your things. Let’s go get them!” And after
you have gathered what remains, please do put them in your museum. If you do
not have a family museum, you can arrange your keepsakes in a shadow box that
you can hang on your wall. However you display your memories, know that you are
preserving your past and giving yourself something to share that many people
can relate too. Happy Graduation Day to all.
Currently,
in every city and town newspaper, there are pictures and stories about the
Classes of 2014. I found many of the Words of encouragement to Graduates
interesting, so here are a few for you to enjoy. Perhaps you will remember your Graduation Day
parting words. They can’t be too different from what it said today.
*It’s up to
you to determine Society *Author Destiny *Fulfill inner purpose *Today
you are ready to conquer world. *Live
a life of significance rather than merely a successful life. *Your
graduation is a launching point for higher dreams. *Choose
what you are passionate about instead of money. *Keep moving toward your personal
goals.
*Own up to your mistakes. Take responsibility for your actions. *Create
opportunities for yourself.
*Go achieve great things, class of 2014.
Next Post: Graduation Cards
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