'Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment, until it becomes a memory.'
Dr. Seuss
I didn't attend my graduation from University. I had already moved on mentally and had already started a full time job. My diploma arrived in the mail about six months later and it remained in it's cardboard container in my old bedroom at home for over a decade. One Christmas my parents decided to surprise me by having it framed. It was a really nice gesture, but I never ended up hanging it up, either at home or my office.
My high school graduation on the other hand, was a blur. I stupidly agreed to sing, so that, and calming my nerves, was pretty much all I could think of. It was really hot and muggy night and the ceremony took almost three hours to complete. Of course my song was set for just near the end. I did however, enjoy my prom, which included a late night beach trip, and breaking up (again) with my high school girlfriend.
Graduations are important, but not nearly as important as the time and money put into them. A few years ago, I attended my cousins high school graduation. The entire night was all about how everyone arrived. I live in a rural area, so students arrived in limos, in wagons, on horses, in firetrucks, even a small group in a helicopter. It was fun for about five minutes, but the overkill got to be a bit much after awhile.
I love a party, but when it comes to ceremonies, I'm into minimalism. I prefer less pomp and ceremony, less fanfare, less expense, and most of all, the less clothing the better. With Covid, I know many missed their proms and ceremonies last year. This year, in most area's, smaller, socially distant ceremonies are back on. Good Luck to all those graduating, and all of those who must endure a three hour graduation ceremony this year, either as a graduate, or as an attendee.