As we woke today, trying to sort out realities with dreams, we come to the sudden realization that this is last day that we will be together as one. Although we would much rather it is a figment of our imagination, what is real can’t be denied, no matter how hard we may try. Yet discussion of the date and its significance was still a taboo at breakfast tables.
The day then started picking up. Setting up for open day, then frantically changing into appropriate attire… Running up and down the ten flights of stairs we have all become so familiar with… By the time the banquet finished, everyone was ready to just relax. But of course, as always, we had to book it back to Hedden Hall to get ready for the next event.
The variety show was held in the prestigious convocation hall, where we danced, juggled, sang, and everything in between. From the confused faces of parents when Shads break out laughing, it does seem like we have more than a few inside jokes among us. Time flashed by as memories of Shad also flashed before my eyes: each challenge, each event, each dorky moment, and each astounding realization.
It was only after the finale of the variety show, (I think it’s the shock of the fact that we had finished the last of our responsibilities) that tears flowed. These tears were genuine. These tears were heartfelt. These tears were a result of our futile attempts to halt the progression of time.
Once upon a time, we walked in complete silence to sacrifice something towards the community. Today, we marched down the same path. But this time, instead of individuals walking towards the same destination, we grabbed hold of each other and formed chains. We walked together. Our footsteps in sync. No one talked. Yet we communicated.
For a whole month everyone has put in effort to create this community. Now, we had to place it on the chopping block with our own hands. No one’s willing, and no one’s glad. But what needs to be done has to be done. Everything beautiful must eventually come to an end so we can look back at it in awe. But then again, “end” is not the adjective for Shad @ Mac 2011. Rather, it is a stage. I will never forget the lessons I’ve learned here. I will never forget the incredible individuals who have taught me in ways they might not even be aware. Thank you, I love you all.
Alisha Chen, Shad Valley McMaster ‘11
Hometown: Calgary, AB
