Commencement

This is the beginning

Of all the things you dream

The beginning

Of the life you have longed for.

Smiles and tears

And slaps on the back.

A rose for Mother

And a handshake from Dad,

Pomp and pride

Hats in the air

Confetti celebration.

That is today.

Tomorrow is real.

Tomorrow is life.

You wonder what it will be like,

And you bravely begin . . .

Years from now

Flipping through albums

You will stare yourself in the face.

A young man

Clad in a varsity jacket

Smiling back at you.

Confident.  Strong.

As attractive as youth itself.

And you will no longer wonder

But know in your heart

That life is wonderful

As bitter and sweet

As Commencement Day

When all the dreams begin.