To the editor:

I read the article on Barrington seniors’ reactions to the planned virtual graduation with interest and mixed feelings.

First of all, I congratulate all graduating seniors on their accomplishment, especially given the acknowledged rigor and caliber of BHS. However, I am unsettled at the negative reactions to the compromise ceremony that has been planned.

As I see it, all the traditional elements are in place; conferring of diplomas, caps and gowns, photo and video ops, and the “walk across the stage”. The walk is a ritual of the symbolic leaving behind of childhood; no more schoolgirl or schoolboy, rather, an entrance into young adulthood.

What is absent is the crowd of classmates, friends and family, the party makers. Are these entitlements? After all, in the real, adult world, not all students have these observers to cheer for them. If you do, you are lucky, for sure, but not entitled.

Please don’t allow your personal disappointment and loss of a spotlight moment in time detract from the celebrations and congratulations that you do receive. In adulthood, it is common to experience the loss of an expected joy. Embrace this as an early first lesson in being a grown-up and making lemonade from lemons. Get creative with your family and friends and celebrate in a safe manner when you can.

Best wishes to the Class of 2020, their families, friends and faculty.

Jorie Allen

Barrington