Today is a day that continues to develop importance and leaves me misty when I think about it.
Today I just completed my 9 month contract here in Nanwalek. I interpreted my first and last graduation for the year and it was truly a beautiful day to be celebrated. Six of our pre-school kids got promoted to kindergarten, 4 of our kindergarteners got promoted to first grade, 4 of our 8th graders got promoted to high school, and 4 of our seniors graduated college and are off to start their lives. It is such an honor to be a part of any graduation- be it here in Nanwalek or at back home interpreting for Fresno State. At each event, people are accepting new responsibilities and going on to start the next chapter of their lives. It is a beautiful moment and I get to be a part of it!
Today, 4 years ago, I completed a promise that I not only made to myself, but to my family. I became a graduate, with not only one degree, but two! One of those people, specifically, was my grandpa. He always would ask how my studies were during our Sunday calls...Always reminding me of the beautiful opportunities that will await for me after I complete my degree and embark on the world.
Not only did I complete my promise to myself, my family and my Grandpa today, but then I lost that beautiful man. He passed away 4 years ago today just after I had finally graduated and moved my tassel and celebrated. He waited to pass till all the festivities were over. I was not there with him when he passed because I was participating in the graduation festivities . I have often wondered if I made the right decision and always get this beautiful peace that comes over me. The same peace that I would get when I would hug him. Just a reminder that I did it and he is proud.
Here is a cheers to the graduates, to those starting a new chapter, and to the beautiful man I got to call my Grandpa.
