Once again, the dance of discourse takes a twirl around the concept of Higher Education and what truly warrants a celebration. Our esteemed friend from across the aisle seems to have struck a chord that echoes around watering down what deserves a cheer and what doesn’t. He draws a vivid picture of celebrations ablaze at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which, in his words, resemble more of a daycare diploma distribution than a true milestone of achievement.
In his eyes, it seems that merely graduating college, particularly from an institution that doesn’t proudly perch itself atop the famed ladders of academia, doesn’t quite earn a parade of pomp and circumstance. This is where the conversation turns to a familiar refrain: the battle against mediocrity. Why, he wonders, are we popping confetti cannons for degrees from schools that aren’t strutting on the elite stage with high rankings and esteem? Shouldn’t we save our applause for accomplishments that crack positive change in society or score a touchdown in the world of business, science, or enterprise?
But wait, let’s not twirl out of balance here. His perspective is firmly rooted in a reality where achievements beckon bigger celebrations, those that paint pictures of success beyond the diploma — a high-paying gig, entrepreneurial wonders, or scientific breakthroughs. There’s beauty in raising a toast when someone lands a dream job or makes a mark on the world, but where’s the harm in a little cinnamon swirl of joy right at the start line, at the graduation stage, before life’s race kicks off?
Of course, our spirited critic casts an even brighter spotlight on what he believes should ignite our dance shoes: celebrations of enduring family success, happy marriages, and raising kids who, bless their hearts, don’t knock on trouble’s door. These are indeed worthy of jazz hands aplenty, but perhaps the graduation ceremony is the beginning of these dreams—each cheer for a cap and gown could be a note of encouragement for future harmonious success stories.
So, as folks decide who should twist and twirl upon life’s stages and when the applause meter hits its high note, perhaps there’s room for all views to share the spotlight. After all, every song needs its varied notes—both the soft applause for the first steps and the resounding cheers for crossing the far finish lines. Shouldn’t life’s journey make room for the choirs of both?
