Mike Parker: ‘Pomp and Circumstance’ signals a new beginning
During the COVID years, I experienced palpable disappointment. My grandson Jaxen graduated from Clayton High School – but Sandra and I could not attend. Granddaughter Courtney received her Associate of Nursing Degree from Pitt Community College – but we could not attend. Granddaughter Haley received her Associate of Arts degree from Pitt before transferring to East Carolina – but we could not attend.
Tuesday evening, Sandra and I had the opportunity to travel to Johnston Community College in Smithfield to watch Jaxen receive his college diploma.
We call graduation ceremonies “commencement” for a reason. “Commencement” marks the end of one significant portion of life and the commencing – the beginning – of the next phase.
Jaxen did everything he could to make the experience easy for his grandmother and me. He obtained a special parking pass that allowed me to park right across the street from the ceremony. That kindness shortened the distance I had to limp with my cane.
Sandra and I arrived early and obtained seats as close as possible to the stage. We saved more seats for Jaxen’s family members who were on the way: Mom Lydia, Stepdad Brent, siblings Laney and Luke, and his other grandparents.
We had gotten a copy of the program and noticed an asterisk beside Jaxen’s name. I did not realize until that moment Jaxen was graduating with honors. I asked after the ceremony why he did not tell us about his honor. He said he hadn’t realized he was receiving any honors. I inquired about his GPA, and he told me it was a little above 3.7.
Jaxen was one of six students receiving a diploma in Computer Integrated Machining Technology. When Sandra and I met him in April to take him out for his 20th birthday, he told me about some of the projects he was working on. The terminology Jaxen used made me feel like he was using a foreign language. He spoke so fluently about the subject that I knew he had to know his stuff.
Jaxen reminds me a good deal of my father, Henry Parker. My dad was a sheet metal worker who taught himself drafting. He had the uncanny ability to look at nearly any mechanical device with a genuine understanding of its function – and its operation. Jaxen has the same gift of insight.
During Jaxen’s senior year in high school, he talked to me about his college plans.
“I want to study Computer Integrated Machining Technology and Welding,” he said. “What do you think, Papa?”
“I think you will never be unemployed,” I said.
He is starting his first job in this field on May 31. His employer has promised to move him to the second shift in August so Jaxen can return to school and receive his credential in welding.
As I watched him cross the stage after officials announced his name, I could not help remembering the shy, quiet little boy who loved Bojangles sausage biscuits and fries – the little boy who was never loud or intrusive and who always tried to please.
He is still quiet. I think he still loves Bojangles, but he now prefers the Japanese steakhouse. He is still unassuming and never takes himself too seriously. I doubt he knows how much I enjoy spending time with him.
After commencement Tuesday, he is entering a new phase of his life – adulthood and the workforce. Unless I miss my guess, his supervisors and fellow employees will soon realize what a treasure he is in their shop.
Congratulations, Jaxen. The world awaits you.
And never forget your Papa is ready to offer advice – but only if you ask for it.
Mike Parker is a columnist for the Neuse News. You can reach him at mparker16@gmail.com.
