Assistant Editor Jerry Lindsey wrote this feature and submitted the photographs.
School Principal Cory Bielema welcomed the audience to the graduation of the Morrison High School 2021 Senior Class, with words of encouragement for the departing students and life lessons to follow on their journey. Bielema’s message flowed with examples of challenges that await the class and advice to carry, while walking the path to the days ahead.
The suggestion to “Chop wood….carry the water….then continue chopping the wood” stood out. His suggestion was to stay focused, when life’s challenges attempt to derail their goals and dreams. The powerful message ended with the reminder that, “Today is the beginning and not the finale.”
Emily Henson was chosen by her class to speak. Her words urged her fellow classmates to
- be persistent, and make the best of what difficult issues life may offer.
- be determined, and confirm to work hard.
- dream, and believe in and follow those dreams.
Another speaker chosen by the class took the podium. Tyler Haan noted how the class had been “cheated” by the COVID-19 pandemic, but complimented them for “biting the bullet” and not complaining. He felt that the unsolicited health circumstances had allowed the class to form a special bond.
He reminded all that certain joys may be taken from their lives. It is up to each individual to make it “work for the better.”
Valedictorian Chloe Bielema defined the past 12 years as “interesting.” She reminded her classmates that they have a long way to go. She voiced great hope of what is to come and urged classmates to “look forward to finding yourselves.”
Her advice was to try new things as they move forward, and “do whatever makes you happy.”
Salutatorian Ashton Smith revealed his discomfort with public speaking and that his Speech class was one of his most challenging while attending MHS. Smith shared that each Speech class made him step out of his comfort zone.
He followed with an entertaining and revealing story of an embarrassing situation, that unfolded during his 13th birthday. This start of his teenage years taught him lessons:
- take chances
- be prepared to be uncomfortable
- hope for a positive outcome.
The beautiful afternoon was filled with heart-felt messages that the 2021 class could take with them, as they began the path of the unknown future.
This group of 52 had experienced an educational experience that hopefully is not mirrored in the future. Each was offered an opportunity to react to uncertainty and changes that no one had endured before.
That experience could enhance the shape of their future.