My little sister graduated college this semester and I couldn't be prouder! I wore a Kate Spade dress (that thankfully still fit then!) with a cardigan. And we had some lovely family time together in SWPA. Katie changed when we got back to my folks' house. I didn't plan enough to bring along something more comfy for myself. It was a long but happy day. And for Katie, I imagine it was bittersweet.
I remember vividly how I felt when I finished undergrad. Panic is probably the best and most honest word to describe it. I know it is a happy moment for one's loved ones but with all the uncertainty and impending transition involved, it's difficult to be so confident and happy. Graduates are facing so much upheaval in their lives. And the news reports don't offer much optimism. I am certain Katie will land on her feet, as she is smart, hard-working, organized, and passionate about her career. But that doesn't mean that the next few weeks and possibly months will not be fraught with their own challenges. Good luck to graduates everywhere who are facing similar circumstances and impending transitions!
In very sad news, the world lost the genius and humor of Nora Ephron yesterday. It seems fitting to share the commencement address she delivered in the 90s to her alma mater. Considering the current political climate, this quote (with all its 90s-specific references) stood out for me:
Don't underestimate how much antagonism there is toward women and how many people wish we could turn the clock back. One of the things people always say to you if you get upset is, don't take it personally, but listen hard to what's going on and, please, I beg you, take it personally. Understand: every attack on Hillary Clinton for not knowing her place is an attack on you. Underneath almost all those attacks are the words: get back, get back to where you once belonged. When Elizabeth Dole pretends that she isn't serious about her career, that is an attack on you. The acquittal of O.J. Simpson is an attack on you. Any move to limit abortion rights is an attack on you -- whether or not you believe in abortion. The fact that Clarence Thomas is sitting on the Supreme Court today is an attack on you.
My introduction to Ephron came through her hilarious and heart-string tugging rom-coms. But it is important to remember that she was also a significant figure in the feminist movement. RIP.
4 comments:
Oh my gosh... my little sister is 8 right now and I can't even begin to imagine her graduation (from high school, much less college). Much congrats to yours!
There's nearly 10 years between us so it's hard for me to fathom her even being old enough to be a college graduate! But it is wonderful to be a part of these milestones and to watch our siblings become the people they are supposed to be. Continue enjoying the joy having a little sister!! It never stops being fun!
Yes, my sister and I are 11 years apart (and we're the only ones). It's different from a typical sibling relationship with a smaller age gap, but no less rewarding.
That is a horrible, viserole speech designed to do nothing but insite hatred.
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