~:[CH9 - Day 162]:~ To the Class of 2020

~:[CH9 - Day 162]:~ To the Class of 2020

Even I said it, I wish that 2020 could get a restart or we can fast forward to 2021. As while this year we have been overwhelmed by so much, I also think it gave us so many opportunities. It gave us more time to reflect on the past, so see what is important, to plan what's ahead, to find those things buried under the pile of clothes in your room and even to connect with your family and friends, even though in many cases it was virtually. You're going to hate that word in the future or will you? I have been so impressed by this class from A to Z. As I saw the names scroll across my screen, I realize how many of you I've been lucky enough to work with, even it was just for a year, a season and for some just the first few days of school. There are so many of you who have achieved great things, who have shown the Cerritos Way, who have had that breakthrough moment or the most important and often underrated accomplishment, making it to this ceremony. The school is better because of the class of 2020 and I know that while this is not the ending that you envisioned, it's actually the start of great things to come. You've faced some of the most difficult moments in a three month span, but I've also seen you fight through the tough days, help those around you keep moving along, and even have heard you raise your voices for issues important to you. My friend said that sometimes when it feels like you're in the dark and been buried, it's actually that you've been planted to sprout another day. Let's take our time to nourish ourselves so that we can grow strong for the world to see. As while these past few months may have been miserable, soon, you will find the light and you will grow like I know you can. Cherish all those memories you've had, reach out and connect with the friends you've made, and be sure to use all the knowledge you gained, whether it's a math equation or simply how to meet a deadline. I am excited to see many of you tomorrow, but as while it's easy to be discouraged and disappointed, celebrate that you had the opportunity. Raise up your head and see the opportunities that await you and see what you can do with all the lemons that 2020 handed to you. I know that you'll be able to make much more than lemonade. As while I am sad we didn't get to say a proper goodbye, I am grateful for all the time that we've had. Congratulations Class of 2020.