*EPILOGUE*

 

    The whole gymnasium wassilent. Everyone was contemplative. Each word of Damon's valedictory address was full of truth.

    "...Why do we have to end only to begin anew? Why does the grass have to die in summer only to shoot a new blade in the spring? That is what our lives are all about - beginnings and ends. And between each cycle are the memories we hold dearly in our hearts, may it be good or bad.

    In our journey as high school students, we have come face to face with challenges, some of them we almost gave up. But if it wouldn't have been for the people who helped us along the way, then we wouldn't be here. We will never feel the pride of graduating.

    In my experience, three of my friends I have learned to treasure are gone -gone forever. The simple twists of fate are not simple at all, they are very, very complicated..."

    Damon's voice was starting to crack. But he carried on.

    "To Faith - for me you are the best. You may be gone, but one day we'll meet again and we will be together, forever. Faith, you are the queen of my heart.

    To Stephen - I'm sorry for everything I've done wrong. And yes, I am a sore loser. Thanks for everything - you're the man.

    And to Hestie - I have forgiven you. I understand you did it for the love of you brother, but what we did was also for justice. Justice for Rhea's death. I hope you are sorry for what you did sop that you may find peace wherever you may be..."

      They're probably strapping my brother to his deathbed right now. And all these people are rejoicing. You haven't paid for this. Not yet. I will be back.

      No one was aware of the hooded figure sitting at the last row, quietly participating in the graduation. No one seemed to mind when she slipped out and left. No one, not even Damon or Sahly, noticed that the person looked so much like their old friend whom they thought, and hoped, was dead...

 

*----------------------*

 

The Graduation
By: Leah Juaymah Mababangloob and Chirstine Anne Mabini
Taken from: Humanae Vitae 

St. Paul College of Paranaque

SY 1999-2000 Literary Magazine