LEWISTON – A steady rain failed to dampen the spirits of 238 seniors and their families packed inside the Colisee for Edward Little High School’s graduation exercises Saturday night.
With “inkblot” as their theme, the speakers shaped their remarks around a large onstage blot on an easel that each saw in a unique way.
Valedictorian Carin M. Q. Eisenstein said, “We will always be reflected in other people,” but she admonished her classmates to avoid accepting and become the image that’s seen by others.
“Do not settle for a shallow understanding of who you are,” she said. “We do not have to be ambiguous blobs.”
Her view of the inkblot brought memories of a second-grade poem she had written that, over time, had not lived up to her proud recollection of it.
Nevertheless, she told her classmates, “The process made that poem meaningful.”
She concluded by saying, “With one foot in the past and one in the future, we are torn between nostalgic memories and our dreams and ambitions.”
She advised the graduates to “take the time to reflect on our surroundings and ourselves.”
In an introduction of the valedictorian, ELHS English teacher Lucille Guay said Eisenstein “has always been about four years ahead of herself in achievement.” She told the audience that Carin is the third, and youngest, sibling of the Eisenstein family to become an ELHS valedictorian.
Salutatorian Elizabeth F. Esponette told the audience that the inkblot reminded her of her childhood pigtails.
She explained how she thought about growing up and developing responsibility. However, she continued: “Adopt fun as your best hobby. Never give up your pigtails.”
To Katelyn R. Perkins, third honor part, the blot represented the Eiffel Tower, a symbol of inspiration to her.
“The quest for originality is often a lonely one,” she said. “One must be bold to achieve your best.”
Marcus J. Schlotterbeck, fourth honor part, said the blot reminded him of a man he had seen recently who was wearing sunglasses. He couldn’t make eye contact, and he felt the man had “retreated behind the glasses.”
On the other hand, a Maine Turnpike toll taker had paused for a couple of friendly words with him, and he felt an honest, yet fleeting, connection.
Schlotterbeck said he also remembered middle school when it was difficult to learn how to relate to others and earn their respect. Many students become toughened to possible rejection in high school, he said.
“Let’s actually graduate to a higher level,” he urged.
Amanda R. Burgess, fifth honor part, said she believes the inkblot “only has meaning if you create that meaning yourself.”
That’s true of life, she said.
“Enjoy this time,” she continued, “and take this advice from Emily Dickinson – dwell in possibilities.”
Class President Kimberly E. Preble introduced the class speakers.
The ELHS combined choirs sang “By Heart,” and a smaller group of students performed “Doors.”
“I Hope You Dance,” sung by Kasey M. Little, brought a standing ovation from her classmates.
Awards were presented by ELHS Principal James H. Miller III and the diplomas were presented by Barbara J. Eretzian, superintendent of Auburn schools.
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