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Lynn C. McMurray
Dear Friends,
I loved seeing so many of you last night at our 50+1 reunion. I laughed over and over as I saw people I could not recognize, then looked at their name tag, realized who they were, and rejoiced in a big bear hug. I also marvelled at the handful, like David Jackson, where were the spitting-images of their 18-year-old selves, and who could still pass, it seems, for high-school seniors.
Everything about the reunion was good, and I thank those who labored to make it happen. We missed all who could not come, and I regret that I saw so many across the hall who I wanted very much to talk to, but kept getting drawn into other conversations until my wife, Charlene, and I had to leave with many greetings still unsaid. The shared memories and video clips were priceless, though I was disappointed at not seeing that famous pass from Steve Marshall to David Barton. I was also deeply touched by the ever-growing list of those passed on, who we knew and loved. Like our friend Victor Checketts, I felt a swell of emotion as I reflected on lost friendships past.
For those who could not come, I enjoyed your greetings on the web and pictures in my yearbook. I spent a couple of pleasant hours looking at pictures, remembering names and faces, chuckling at the kind and funny messages so typical of yearbooks, and savoring stirred memories. How fun it was to enjoy anew the friendships, games, activities, clubs, teachers, coaches, classes, and places, all experiences that bound us together as a class. Time tends to soften rough edges and put things in perspective. As I looked at all those faces in my yearbook, I could see much goodness and light, and regretted that our class was so large that we could not all know each other. I realized, too, that many carried untold burdens I never knew but wished I did. I wish we had the time to sit and hear each other's stories. So much to learn. So much to share.
All things considered, I am very grateful for the years we shared at Skyline, and thank you one and all for making such a difference in my life. Regardless of faith, race, politics, or creed, I think we were friends, something I will never forget. I'm with Tiny Tim, "God bless us, everyone."
With kindest regards,
Lynn McMurray
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