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Some advice for the Class of 2008
To the Class of 2008
We are the Quincy High School Class of 1958. Fifty years ago in June, we stood where you are today. We were the first class to graduate from the (then) new high school building you've enjoyed for the last few years.
We've contemplated the differences between you and us. Aside from "time" that causes contrast, we are not that different from you. Sure, the term "senior pictures" has taken on new meaning for us, but we are, in so many ways, very much like you.
We went before you by the measurement of just a few years. We've tasted the world as your progenitor generation. And we do have some thoughts we'd like you to ponder regarding the future.
How often have you contemplated "what the future holds for you?" How often have you asked yourself, "Will I make it out there?" We asked all those questions that contain elements of self-doubt of ourselves, too. But what we'd like you to consider is simple. Rather than ask questions of self-doubt, formulate questions that will frame your future. But not just for you, but for this great country and community, your families, your liberties and freedoms and the way of life you've learned to love. There are threats out there that should cause you soberness. You are the next generation and should prepare yourself to be a new voice for the future.
You should be asking, "How will my experience at QHS shape the way my voice is to be heard?" Throw your graduation cap into the air and say, "From now on my life will be what I stand for," and begin writing your story. We've written ours — it's your turn!
We have found it difficult, although not impossible, to connect the "dots" in our lives looking forward. That is easier done when looking back, not forward. But we have learned to live with ambiguity because we had trust in a higher authority. We had parents, teachers, leaders from various fields that nudged us forward with hope and faith. We developed a sense of destiny and a love for life. We hope you'll spend time finding your voice in a world full of vagueness. Life for you will not be "black and white."
We find it truly significant to be able to arise each day and do something we love doing. We testify to you that life is way too short to be doing things you don't love doing. However, with care and love, we've been able to sacrifice our own desires for things greater than our self interests. In doing so, we elevated the meaning of love to a whole new level.
Looking forward we see some factors of freedom that will need your attention, like never before. You've lived in a fairly well protected environment, but that will change. It will require you to be attentive, disciplined and aware of those erosive powers that could derail our freedoms. You will have to take up the voice for us — and those who follow you, in order to be a force for preservation. You will need a healthy dose of concern and sensitivity for others, then put their needs ahead of your own. To become that "voice for freedom" you'll need to continue your quest for knowledge, evaluate your experiences and collegially chart the future.
Relish in the fact that the road ahead will never be straight. Know that everything in your life, whether good and bad, is working for your ultimate well-being. Realize that in just a few months there will be a new graduating class stepping into your place. You've got to get out of their way and begin making a place for them and their future (hopefully like we have for you).
Look at life as a "calling" from a higher authority. That authority is not going to tell you how to perform your calling, but will ask you to go forth with faith and trust in yourself. Find your spirit -- your voice, and let your soul dance with the joy of performing your calling with sound stewardship. We don't know what will make your soul dance with joy, but you'll know it when it happens. Then cling to that newly found voice and don't just let things happen -- make things happen!
Now, last but certainly not without importance — start writing what you'll learn about your future and formulate what you'll say to the QHS Class of 2058. Like eagles, take flight and find happiness in what the future holds for you.
P.S. In conjunction with our celebration of our 50th reunion, we will be holding an Open House on Saturday, Sept. 13 after the parade, from noon to 4 pm at QHS, room 728. Why not come by and let us honor you with our greeting?
