GRADUATION DAY

Finally, Graduation Day is here.

The audience is ready to yell, scream and cheer.

Their graduate has earned a degree.

A journey meant to be.

Watching people take a seat.

recall the classes that you had to complete.

Waiting for the music to begin,

the Coliseum is filled with din.

The "Graduation March" begins to play.

Graduates are on their way.

Commencement is off to a splendid start.

Hearing the music, it touches my heart.

Seeing the green caps and gowns appear,

searching for you, don't see you and hold back a tear.

Knowing they will further their education or soon be jobseekers,

graduates listen to their commencement speakers.

Each graduate's name and degree

appears on the Jumbovision, we can see.

Hearing each graduate's name announced,

seeing, then hearing, your name pronounced.

The audience appears carefree.

On the other hand, you can't see me,

Hearing my "woohoo" cheer,

you walk the stage recognizing my voice in the crowd; you can hear.

You know that it's me and that I'm here

to celebrate your achievements this year.

After commencement, the party takes place.

Smells waft throughout the house, and there is a smile on your face.

Pizza and Jersey Mike's sets the party mood

adding cake, your favorite food.

Ice-cold bottled water quenches the thirst and tastes just right.

Before the party heads into the night,

there is a hug or two

with a few photo opportunities with you.

Unforgettable, the 12th of May,

it's Spring 2023 Graduation Day!

Writer's notes: This poem is dedicated to my grandson who graduated this month. In addition, GRADUATION DAY is submitted to Vocal's Sensational Challenge.

Of course, the "Graduation March" sometimes referred to as simply Pomp and Circumstance is a familiar and traditional processional tune played at American graduations.

In 1901, Pomp and Circumstance March #1 was written by Sir Edward Elgar, who is a British composer, and the music played at the coronation of King Edward VII. Naturally, the song is considered patriotic in the UK.

So, how did it cross the pond and become associated with American education? The song was played as a recessional in 1905 at a Yale graduation. That year, Sir Edward Elgar received an honorary doctorate from Yale. Later, the song was used as a processional song at graduations, and ever since it has become a tradition.

Thank you for reading! Your hearts and comments are appreciated!

Reference: https://www.npr.org/2003/05/27/1273081/pomp-and-circumstance#:~:text=Sir%20Edward%20Elgar%20composed%20Pomp,coronation%20of%20King%20Edward%20VII.