The Graduate

To the graduate,

With a little one the way and a glimmer of excitement in your eyes

I see you.

To the graduate,

With a list of names on your wrist in honor of those who stood for this country but can’t stand with you today

I see you.

To the graduate,

Who said it took 8 years to get here, I am honored to witness such an amazing event in your life

I see you.

To the graduate,

Who ran in with a paramedic uniform on just in time to walk across the stage

I see you.

To the graduate,

Who flew across oceans to get this diploma

I see you.

To the graduate,

Who is a single parent , I wish you could see the admiration in your children’s eyes as they look at you

I see you.

To the graduate,

Who is the first in your family , your ancestors are so proud

I see you.

To the graduate,

To every graduate

You are inspiration.

All those late nights or early mornings, they matter

Whatever path you followed to get here

You are here, and

I see you.

We all see you.

And from where we stand,

Nothing ever looked so beautiful.