POEM FOR GRADUATION: DON MATHIS

The past is over; the future begun.
Oh, happy day; it's your graduation!
So let me add my congratulation.

The long years at school seem like more than twelve.
Some classes were easy, but others (well),
they were difficult, but you never failed.

There will be no more classrooms, halls, or books,
or teachers’ mean accusatory looks,
or the stuff the cafeteria cooks.

You may forget teachers and principals
but don’t dare be so reprehensible
that you not remember your principles.

Now as you murmur Pomp & Circumstance,
find me in the crowd, send a nodding glance.
And then go and do your commencement dance!

Love, Dad