The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

Attitudes And Graduates

by Dessa Rodeffer, Publisher/Owner

29 May 2002

After witnessing Union's Graduation last Sunday, and Southern and La Harpe's this past Sunday, I am convinced there would be no losers in any type of consolidation efforts among these three top notch schools.

Parents and teachers have done a wonderful job which is highly reflected in the achievements and appreciation students expressed in their speeches.

It seems, no matter how big our schools become, they are still a part of a small family unit at home, a caring community, a loving church.

Our students are so intertwined with everything that's going on around them, and so sensitive to the needs of others, that the world has become a much smaller place in their eyes, while their circle of friends have increased with no boundaries.

More than any other year, I've noticed our students showing an extra dose of appreciation for those who have lead the way, and I've noticed a more responsible and more mature bunch of students.

In the Valedictory addresses of Shannen Painter of La Harpe High, Grant Van Tine, Union High, and Emily McCann of Southern High, all three expressed their gratitude for the many who helped support and encourage them, and who showed their support by coming to their various endeavors.

Their speeches were expressed in a sincere attitude of appreciation for school boards, teachers, classmates and surely is the true making of a peaceful society.

Whether 9-11 had anything to do with their attitudes and overwhelming sense of caring for all who are doing their best to make this a better place or not, I don't know, but one thing I am sure of, is that 9-11 has affected all of our lives.

The bond has not only strengthened the good character of New Yorkers and of all Americans, but it also strengthened the bond among all human beings around the world who watched in horror.

It proves, once again, that out of any situation, good can come. What was intended as evil and to destroy us, has actually made us all stronger.

Attitude is everything, and I believe it made us stumble in the past.

With 9-11, however, it has been tweaked, bringing more patriotism across invisible lines. This attitude of respect is giving new determination to strive for brotherhood, overcoming differences with gratitude for the good that lies within each of us.