In reality, where do we really belong? Our campus, on Haida Drive , is now an elementary school on Mons Drive. We didn't graduate from an elementary school and we certainly didn't graduate from Carver. So who do we belong to?Just as I was thinking about that and hearing how much we "matter" to VCS (but I can't get anyone to return my emails), I got in my regular mailbox my first copy of the "Carver Courier". Their beautiful auditorium and their lovely matching uniforms. They are all great, but very unlike us.Their idea of "alumni" is anyone who has graduated from that highschool during the past 5 years. What came into my head was that phrase that Popeye used to say when he had been pushed around by Brutus and was just about to get out the spinach. How does it go? " I've stood alls I can takes and I's can't stands no more!"
Now I'll answer my own question. I'll tell you who we belong to...
Each other.
Only WE know what it's like to try and work our way through a hallway as narrow as a razor blade.
Only WE know what it's like to have a Gymnasium so small that we can only play half-court basketball.
Only WE know what it's like to have to change into our PE strip in a bathroom so small the mice have to go outside to change their minds.
Only WE know what it's like to have to wear gloves with the fingers cut out during classes because the furnace isn't working and it's the only way to grip our pens during the winter.
Only WE know what it's like to try and get to Wendy's and back in only a 40 minute lunch hour.
WE know what it's like to have Mr. Paul threaten to "rip your lips off".
WE know what it's like to have to set up and put away the wooden chairs for Wednesday assembly.
WE know what it's like to try and give driving instructions to a school that is not really on ANY road.
WE know what it's like to have to try and sell oranges, grapefruit, chocolates, or sausages because that's the only way there will be money for an event.
Only WE had a school store that consisted of a fridge in a closet, some 2 year old chocolate bars and a money box.
WE know what it's like to consider a school large because it finally has 140 students.
WE know what it's like to work in a science room that has counters made of asbestos because they are from another century.
WE know what it's like to consider your school up and coming because they can finally afford a SECOND computer.
But mostly, because we shared not only all these experiences but we have bowed our heads together in prayer to the God, Father and Creator that the rest of the world classified as non-existent and us as morons for believing He still involves himself in the lives of his children.
Now there's an internet which the whole world is a part of. Let's use this opportunity to gather together again. To renew old friendships and to make new ones. But this time, not as insecure children trying to find our place in the world, filled with confusion and doubts, but with the wisdom and experience that having a few years under your belt can give.
YOU belong here.
