Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly fly the years.”
Continuing on the theme of the 45th anniversary of my high school commencement —
Sunsets were almost always a sight to behold on that Mesa in the southern part of Santa Barbara County.
During my student years, though, the beauty of these magnificent natural events often evaded me as my teenaged hormones dictated a focus on another kind of natural beauty. That we were an all-boys school, the absence of that beauty just made the obsession stronger. Ironically, whenever we had a girls school come up for a dance weekend, the young ladies usually crowded at the edge of the campus to ooh and ahh at the magnificent sight — I was still distracted and missed the big picture.
After college, though, I returned to teach at my old school (insert Steely Dan reference here) and I realized what I had taken for granted during those three wonderful years. I was most fortunate to get that second chance.
Life offers many second chances, but you have to recognize and take advantage of them. During these challenging days, we have an unusual amount of time to reflect. My hope for us all is that we see the bigger picture of what is around us and grab those second chances. May we try to embrace and celebrate the beauty of our world in all its many facets – from its natural wonders to its people, all beautiful in variety and origin.
Another salute to all my classmates from the Cate School Class of ’75, and particularly the members we have lost along the way
To one and all
Be Safe-Stay Healthy-Carpe Diem