05/17/2026
‘Twas the night before graduation, as the sun started going down, And throughout the whole village, Seniors readied their gown. The caps were all laid by the bedside with care, In hopes that the morning would quickly be there.
The students were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of futures danced deep in their heads. And moms in their feelings, and dads checking clocks, Were realizing time doesn’t care how it locks.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the fresh-cut spring grass, Shone down on the homes of the graduating class. When what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a vision of blue that was brilliant and clear.
With a spirit so fierce, and a stride so profound, I knew in a moment we stood on high ground. More rapid than eagles his memories came, As he whispered the values that carved out our name:
"Now Respect! Now Commitment! Now Pride in our stride! By the strength of our history, we walk with inside! To the top of the stage! To the turn of the tassel! We conquered the homework, the tests, and the hassle!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky, So up to the future the graduates grew, Decked out in their Navy and Columbia Blue.
And then, in a twinkling, I saw on the hill, The silhouette of a Warrior, noble and still. With feathers of honor and eyes full of light, A guardian watchful, deep into the night.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, Leaving strength in the air with a proud, subtle smirk. And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the valley he rose.
He sprang to the sky, to his team gave a call, And away they all flew, the elite of them all. But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight: "Happy Graduation to Adena, and to all a good night!"