Three Down

We have lived in Taiwan four years. How can it be in just those four years, three of my own children have graduated? This reality would be almost inconceivable, if my memory didn't prove otherwise.

Abbi was just a freshman when God opened the doors to Taiwan and Morrison. Four fast flying years, and now, she has joined the ranks of Morrison alumni.

Congratulations, class of 2016.

 Unique within itself, Morrison is neither fully Taiwanese, nor fully American. Graduation traditions, while resembling some American high school traditions, deviate due to this uniqueness.

Official graduation festivities began with a reception for the graduates and their parents. And, of course, the usual photo opportunities! It is a time of celebration, and conversations. They also tell "the story" of the class. A handful began their Morrison adventure in kindergarten. While others began their academic careers in Chinese schools, or schools around the world. No matter where their path began, or traveled through, all their paths ended at Morrison.

This reception is hosted by the board of trustees. They want to make sure everyone is well fed and ready for the long evening of ceremonies and celebrations.

Afterwards, the graduates-to-be gather to don their caps and gowns. 

As the graduates enter the auditorium, each mother is presented a rose from their child. Talk about heart rendering. 

Unlike public schools in America, the graduating class chooses several hymns or praise and worship songs to sing.. This was the only part of the ceremony in which I cried. Cornerstone was chosen by the class,  as a tribute to the their classmate Josh, who tragically died after being struck by a car. This was one of his favorites and sung at his funeral. I love the song, but it will always remind me of Josh and his early departure from this world.

And prayers of thanksgiving and blessing.

Abbi was recognized with the female athletic award- given not only for ability, but

also dedication, work ethic, and sportsmanship. 

Along with the diploma, each graduate receives a Bible.

It's official!

Seating is limited, so only the families and faculty attend graduation. Afterwards, a reception line, dubbed The Wailing Wall, forms to allow underclassmen and other community members to congratulate the graduates. The darkness of the evening is dispelled by the continuos camera flashes.

Several of Abbi's current and former teachers paused to congratulate Abbi:

basketball and track coach,

biology and anatomy and physiology teacher,

 Chinese teacher,

and last year's physics teacher who pushed and pushed Abbi, often to tears, but as a result strengthened her as a student, as well as in her faith.

The night would not be complete without a picture of the swim team captains and coach.

After all the posing, smiling, and congratulating comes an all night party. With the opening of the pool, this year included midnight swimming!

But as the sun rises the next morning,  reality sets in.

The morning brings tears and sadness. The majority of the graduates not only leave the Taichung area, but Taiwan, some permanently. There is a good chance that their goodbyes, will be for forever. 

It's hard to be both happy and sad at the same time!