Page 53 - 1997 Wardlaw Hartridge

THE WARDLAW-HARTRIDGE SCHOOL
At the beginning of the year, I read you a quotation: "We are not at our best when we are perched at the summit. We are at our best when we are climbing — even when the way is steep." As individuals and as a class you epitomize that notion, and you have grown in significant ways as a result of accepting the challenge of the climb.
What kind of growth do 1mean? 1 refer to the lasting, positive transformation which enables you to have confidence that you are competent — that you can meet and overcome challenges — that you have important talents to offer others. Each of you has discovered that about yourself during your time here. The growth has happended as you have stretched yourselves, not as you have found a comfort level. It has come as you have encountered difficulty, even failure — whether not getting the grade (s) you hoped for, the part you auditioned for, the starting position you trained for.
As I think about your class, I think of some whose many talents were not apparent to your peers until you discovered the courage to risk making them visible. You overcame major injuries, personal tragedies, and academic challenges. I think of some who were not convinced you should take honors courses or felt mistrust of school and your own ability to succeed, then discovered academic talents and blossomed into scholars. You grew as artists and performers through your commitment to cirtiquing your work. Several of you went out for a sport you had never played before because you thought you could make a difference, and you became valued contributors of your team — even being part of conference and state championship squads. You returned our football, track, girls' basketball and wrestling programs to prominence because of your skill, leadership and commitment.
I will always think fondly of your class for your spirit. Your members painted and ddecorated the school more than any other class, literally brightening the halls, gym and pool. You created and decorated the Middle School area. You made wonderful banners (and sets!). You energized the Upper School with Morning Meeting announcements, cheers, and attendance at events. You gave unstintingly of your free time to tutor, to serve others, to organize events. You also set a standard for tolerance — all while remaining true to yourselves.
You are each "climbing" in impressive fashion, and we know that you will continue your growth in important ways. Please come back often and let us know where your climbs take you.
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