As we start to look forward to lessening the shelter-in-place orders around the country, our children are coming out of their homes looking upon a very different world from when they entered them over two months ago. They miss their friends, activities and even classroom discussions. But it’s the Class of 2020 who will mourn the missed proms, parades, pep assemblies and eventually graduation ceremonies the most. They won’t have next year to make up for “lost time.” I began to think about my youngest, a junior; he may have a chance at a senior year that we recognize, but most likely it will look very different from the one we remember.
So, it is with this in mind that I composed this open letter to all soon-to-be graduates of 2020.
To the graduating class of 2020:
Everyone speaks of their final year of school with a nostalgic remembrance for the simpler times in their lives. When they didn’t have to worry about anything except getting to the next class on time.
They tell their children and grandchildren stories that soon are referred to as the “legends,” describing them as if they occurred only the day before, remembering the names of classmates and teachers alike. For these are the days’ memories that are etched into each of our souls.
But your story of your final school year will be like no other before you. Having to face an unrecognizable world, seemingly overnight, you will have tales to weave of survival and adaptation for those who will listen years from now.
So write down your adventures, as you see fit. Journal, document, whatever you may call it… because someone in the very near future will sit to hear these days’ memories that will be etched into your soul. And they will say, “Thank you for sharing your journey with me.”
Letter is property of Anne Marie Lucci-Stahl
