I have two graduations to attend this week for two sons. One from eighth grade and one from high school. Both have struggled, in different ways, to reach this point.

People always talk about honoring the graduates, but I don't think that's what graduations are really all about. My boys don't care that much about the ceremony, just as long as someone gives them money. They're glad to be finished and looking forward to a summer break.

Their graduations, I feel, are a tribute to my husband and me. Who reminded them to do their homework? Who bought all those school supplies--sometimes at eight on a cold or rainy evening? Who sat in parent-teacher conferences? Who kept pushing and encouraging as they inched forward to their goals?

And who will be sitting in a hard chair beaming as each one receives his diploma? I think they'd rather stay home and watch a video.

My fourth son is graduating from high school and my fifth from eighth grade. One more in middle school. The others are grown. I'm almost there. If I strain, I can see the finish line.

I am graduating this week. Twice. My sons will accept the accolades on my behalf.

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