Yesterday was an absolutely gorgeous day for graduation. Grand day for all. When the odd balloons carried by students to help family find them in the crowd of black robes and bright faces were let go, they soared into the breezy, bright, blue sky. The Lawn was beautiful.
Glad to see the Colors applauded and saluted when they came forward. Shared the Pledge and National Anthem with thousands, not expecting either, but not knowing, really, what would be observed. This was my first graduation at The University.
Gov. Timothy Kaine’s speech was expertly delivered. I can see why many non-ideological voters would be quite taken with him. His positive personality came through in a very natural, engaging way.
His speech was good. I was so grateful it wasn’t some political junk. The Governor spoke on the theme of 400 years of Virginia’s celebration – yes, celebration. The graduates were encouraged to seek adventure, discovery and surprise like the original colonists.
Gov. Kaine touched on the big ideas in establishing and expanding the freedoms of the English-speaking Peoples in Virginia with their complexity without the Liberal pandering. Well done.
He mentioned the selfless service of graduates in teaching, the Peace Corps and Foreign Service, but forgot to add the selfless, dangerous service of the ROTC graduates going into the Armed Services.
President Casteen closed with one obligatory, Liberal comment about racial diversity. But, he finished with the stirring words, even though we may interpret them differently, of individual rights, freedom, the Rule of Law and the Republic.
My daughter, Maggie Kyle Bowden, graduated with a degree in English. She starts a marketing job in Atlanta on 1 July. So thrilled to share our joy and pride with her.
Thus, ends 11 years of my family having a kid on campus in Virginia universities. We may grow to miss I-64. Or not. The school loans will be paid in another 10 years.
Wah-hoo-wah!