Graduation Day

I was drawn to the title and the rules of this contest,
Indeed, it tickled my fancy, enticed, and energized me,
As I feel the need to give substance to my earnest quest,
And a platform to be able to tell either she or he,	
How by studying for a degree puts you to the test,
From there on, you will always want to be best, I foresee.
	
In my forties I started to study, this is my story.
I graduated, so proudly capped for my BA degree, 
My son said. “Mom, you deserve all the glory”.
You will feel good that your family will be proud, you’ll see,
It matters not one’s age, start studying, I was over forty,
As for my husband, he was as proud as could be.

I got my degrees late, why, because when I was eighteen, 
My dad said, “my girl, do you really want to study, I just fear
It is the boys and flirting, studying done only in between’’
How right he was, matriculated at an all-girls convent, oh dear,
Yes, university sounded sweet, twenty years on, no longer a teen,
My decision steadfast, to study my aim, this became crystal clear.

UNISA capped me, a second degree, this with honors, whoopee!
Why study?  Self-worth and confidence, sure you’ll agree.

Date: 2023/03/26
Poetry Contest: Graduation Day
Sponsor: Craig Cornish
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023


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Date: 6/18/2023 12:50:00 PM
There are times when we find out that there's more to learning than we thought when younger. I went back too. Excellent thoughts on your experience and learning.
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Date: 4/11/2023 11:23:00 AM
Jennifer, you have inspired me with your tale of how you decided to go back to school in your 40s. I'd want to offer my most heartfelt congratulations for reaching such an important milestone.
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Date: 3/30/2023 4:24:00 PM
A wonder journey for you dear Jennifer and as your son said - One to be proud of ! Bravo to you and your courage and tenacity ! I congratulate you like the rest ! Wonderful feeling inside and out . Hugs, Susan :)?
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Date: 3/29/2023 12:32:00 PM
Hi Jennifer, Thanks for sharing your story. I got my degree later on as well around working and taking care of my family. I wasn't ready to go to college straight out of high school and was anxious to leave home and be more independent. Many moons later in my 40's I graduated Magnum Cum Laud at a historically Black teacher's college. It's never, ever to late to pursue one's degree. Many congratulations to you
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Date: 3/29/2023 6:16:00 AM
This is very inspiring Jennifer! Congratulations for your accomplishmnent. So proud of you . Enjoy :)
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Date: 3/28/2023 9:24:00 PM
Inspiring story ! To have earned a degree after forty and that too after having a family and children, is so commendable. So the degree will be bringing double honors to you. Really enjoyed reading your account. Quite proud of you Jenny !
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Date: 3/28/2023 8:51:00 AM
A wonderful story/write/ending. Good for you. Age is just a number. Have a great/blessed day writing away................
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Date: 3/27/2023 12:02:00 PM
WoW! Jennifer, You've penned such an inspiring and uplifting write. I agree, it's never too late to go back to school and get your degree. I am so proud of you my friend. You are an inspiration to me and all who read your words. I want you to know you have penned a winning "poem" placement or no placement. Best wishes in the contest. Have a fantastic day my dear friend from across the pond:-0 Alexis
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Date: 3/27/2023 10:51:00 AM
What an inspiring story, Jennifer, yes it is never too late to get that degree! Many sincere congratulations on that great accomplishment~
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Date: 3/27/2023 5:46:00 AM
Indeed you deserve all the glory my friend. BIG congrats on your achievement and the uplifting spirit you convey. I felt the inspiration throughout. You should feel proud, Jennifer.
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Date: 3/27/2023 4:11:00 AM
Congratulations, Jennifer…you are beaming with pride! We seem to study better after we get our minds straight…after our youth…be blessed!
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Date: 3/27/2023 3:04:00 AM
Jennifer, a big congratulations. It takes courage to look at yourself and have others critique your work at the university level. You've accomplished something that I am sure will make you a better person. Hope you are well and continue to learn. Thank you also for your comments. Much appreciated!!
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Date: 3/27/2023 1:23:00 AM
You did your best. You deserve a prize.
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Date: 3/27/2023 12:13:00 AM
Well done Jennifer, proof that you're never to old to learn. Tom
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Date: 3/26/2023 6:45:00 PM
Great true story, Jennifer. I too am proud of you, as I imagine everyone on the Soup is! Bravo! ~ Scholars and Dollars, gw
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Date: 3/26/2023 12:34:00 PM
Well done Jennifer, you and your family have every reason to be proud of your achievements… Best wishes, Belle
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Date: 3/26/2023 12:09:00 PM
- Of course you should be proud, Jenny - I started late too... I finished one year before I turned 30 :) - Best wishes in the contest with this great poem, my friend :) - hugs
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