Ode to the Class of 2012

We welcome you here on this splendid occasion And are thankful you’ve joined in our grand celebration As we reach this climactic moment in life And leave behind high school joys (and strife): The Homewood graduates of 2012. We are the seniors – we’ve worked long and hard. And this is the day when we give our regard To the parents and friends who have helped us to grow And have faithfully taught us so much that we know. Our work was sincere and our efforts were prudent. We’ve conquered the challenge of being good students By completing our classes with worthy grades, (Though not every time did we receive A’s!). We Homewood graduates of 2012. Here are your actors, dancers, musicians… Who have worked and succeeded in our many ambitions. We’re photographers, athletes, diligent Scouts, Equestrians – oh, without a doubt We completely disprove the unflattering lies That all homeschooled students are un-socialized. Our talents emerge to the praise of the King And these gifts are poured out as a sweet offering From the Homewood graduates of 2012. Our hobbies are many; our talents diverse. It isn’t surprising that as we disperse We leave countless reminders of how much we care In the lives that we’ve touched, in the love that we’ve shared. Indeed, this cool class is dynamic in service, Spending numerous hours volunteering in churches And serving our growing community; Oh what a great honor it is to be Among the Homewood graduates of 2012. Through AP and CLEP, dual credits and more, We students have opened a widening door That will lead us to places we desire to go, Because of the tireless efforts we show. Not all will leave home, but some certainly will, And each will work hard in refining his skill. In the upcoming years we’ll have jobs in the work force And endeavor to radically change this world’s course, We Homewood graduates of 2012. What a blessing it is to have been schooled at home! We will always remember, wherever we roam The close friendships that grew with our parents’ support And the joy of assignments we could often transport To locations with beautiful scenery: For how many of us have done school in a tree? Yes, the flexible natures of our schools were great, But we’re also prepared for the work that awaits. We Homewood graduates of 2012. In a time when our nation is growing in debt, When we see other countries becoming a threat, When acquiring a job is a huge competition, And our faith is engaging in great opposition, We have choices to make as we gain independence That determine our futures and also, the fragrance We bring to our friends and to those whom we meet. Will it be of death or of Christ: pure and sweet, Homewood graduates of 2012? As we leave this commencement I challenge you all To follow God’s leading, respond to his call. For we know that He has a great plan for our lives. As we walk in His will and continue to strive Toward the prize that awaits us, we’ll certainly find His omnipotent power, great love, and design. So be strong and courageous; do not be afraid. Journey forth on the path that our Father has laid Homewood graduates of 2012. Senior year is complete, and we’re moving on. A new time of our lives is beginning to dawn. As we look to the future with great expectations, We will build on our parents’ loving foundations. And with joy we set out to this turbulent world With God’s message of hope prepared to unfurl. For whatever our futures, we know this for sure: We are loved and directed by our awesome Savior, The Homewood graduates of 2012.