It had been just over a year since I last visited, but it was if only a week had passed when I returned to my high school, St. Ignatius, today. I visited teachers, priests, campus ministers, college counselors and other faculty members who were more than happy to take some time out of a busy finals week to chat with me and catch up. I was in heaven.
Some people might not understand why I feel so passionate about my high school, especially since many people dislike their high school experience or see high school pride as a refusal to grow up. However, if I can emphasize the importance my high school had on my formation as a person, maybe they can begin to comprehend it. I consider my four years of high school as the best four years of my life. During that time I met some of the most amazing friends, was guided by countless inspiring mentors, learned some extremely valuable lessons, was given the most incredible of opportunities, and carried on a family legacy which goes back to both of my grandfathers. That was high school for me; in a word, it was...indescribable.
My visit today was a reminder that it was always be a place where I can hang my hat, as one of my former theology teachers said. My conversation with the incomparable Fr. Frank Canfield was both invigorating and relaxing. The many other people I spoke with today reinforced my dream deferred: to return to my alma mater to teach and coach. Granted, I have decided to pursue another dream first in journalism, but down the line I know I will call West. 30th and Lorain my place of work.
To be back where I became so much of who I am now reminded me of the lessons I learned there that I will carry forward in my final years of undergrad and into my career. I will attempt to live my life Ad majorem dei gloriam, and in doing so, will carry on that timeless Kairos motto: Live the Forth.
