The names of my fellow classmates are reverberating from the speakers onto the walls of the large stadium, which despite the open air outside, is still stiflingly hot to me.
Yes, I’m sweaty and nervous, fidgeting with the sleeves of the gown covering my dress and the very distracting tassel that keeps flapping in my face, but thankfully no one can see me unless they are looking for me.
As I walk, I try to spot Eddie in the crowd for what feels like the tenth time in a few minutes. There are too many people now to see, and the seats are far too many to scan, so I can barely make out any faces.
My mother is there, I know, along with Stevie, and he has Mrs. Maxine in tow. Poppy and Lily are with them, of course, and I ache to see my girls in the crowd, cheering their mother on.
Most of all, I wish that I could see him.
My first few steps are anxious and hurried until suddenly I notice that the applause and cheering for me as I cross the stage is strangely loud and close by.
My heart swells to about twice its size when I realize why that is.
I walk the rest of the way with pride, and as I’m having my picture taken, I chance a look into the crowd again, and yes, he’s still there.
It’s Eddie, pressed against the railing closest to the field and holding a huge bundle of roses in his hands.
He’s cheering for me like a madman, looking so very proud of me and whistling as loudly as he can. Just behind the love of my life, my family sits and screams for me. They are louder than everyone else, drowning out my doubts and fears.
Robin and Riley are waving homemade signs, and Allison’s little son gives me a happy grin. My mother holds Poppy in her lap, and Stevie lets Lily stand up, waving to me with Mrs. Maxine. They all look so very happy, and I feel that same love.
Their voices are like a soft melody that brings peace, and as I hold my degree in my hands, I now know exactly who I am and who I want to be.