Last night we witnessed our oldest son graduate from the Police Academy at the local Junior College. We are extremely proud of him and this accomplishment. But as the evening wore on I became more uncomfortable and there was a bit of pain involved.
The ceremony, messages badge pinnings and certificate dispersal took about two and a half hours. We sat in the gym stands and at first it wasn't too bad. Then the hard plastic seats seemed to become harder. The children behind us became more restless, even the Ipads and phones couldn't entertain them enough to keep them quiet. Then their parents started talking, loudly. It soon reminded me of a high school graduation. I have no doubt why my students have no manners because I have sat with their parents in football stands during graduations and had to sush them to hear what was being said. I missed one son getting his diploma because someone in front, with balloons, stood up and walked in front of us when he walked across to get his sheepskin. That is what I was thinking of last night as I watched the clock move past two hours and the feeling in my joints became more painful.
Then I realized what I was really watching. These 46 Police Academy graduates were going to go into the world and protect me. They were giving of themselves to make my life easier and safer. They were leaving today the world of a person I like,and becoming a person that many people make fun of and deride while they serve me and help me. At that point I realized I can wait over two hours with sore joints and noisy seatmates to honor the men and women that will make my life easier.
Thank you for your sacrifices and willingness to serve.
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1 comment:
Congratulations to you, your son and your family. Many times a day I have to "hush" myself and step back to take a long look at the big picture!
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