Journey what matters to VC class of 2002

"Life is not a destination, but a journey." This trek can lead us both stumbling through a jungle of hallways and traveling amongst a variety of peers.

Whatever it may be, it is important that on occasion we glance behind to see and appreciate the ground we have covered.

Valley Christian School can best be described as a close-knit, extended family. The uniqueness of this school shines through every day.

The close-knit atmosphere is accentuated by a high school enrollment of about 140 students, with 20 representing the entire 2002 graduating senior class.

Given such a small school environment, you are allowed to relate to each student on a personal level, and develop many lasting friendships.

As a new student venturing into this school, there are many important lessons that one must learn.

These may include subtly stretching the dress code limits, knowing that you can never write too much, but you can write too little (at least in Mr. Altmeyer's class), and realizing that no matter how much you try to deny it, everyone knows what you will be doing on the weekend.

Relationships are the key to this excellent institution, which include relationships with each other, but more importantly, a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Thus, each year begins with a high school retreat, where we learn more about each other as well as ourselves.

Dynamic speakers have challenged us concerning leadership in our school, and taking ownership of our spiritual lives.

Many memories were made at these retreats as students showed their extensive talent in the No Talent Show.

As the year progresses, each class discovers its own identity; and now as seniors we are finally starting to understand what that is.

We may be loud, rude and obnoxious at times, but at the heart of our class is unity.

Don't get me wrong, unity doesn't happen overnight; it is certainly a process.

This unifying process has taken place through many venues, but none more than the avenue of sports. Through sports, we are able to develop bonds and encourage one another.

Two-hour road trips on cramped school buses can lead to many interesting experiences. I won't go into all the details, other than the many jesting brawls, card games, and fruit "accidentally" falling out the windows.

Also, no one will forget three state appearances in basketball and two state championships in track.

Now as we end our journey, we are faced with one final definitive challenge - "senioritis."

Some of us have risen to the occasion, and overcome, while others, lost this battle long before their senior year.

Whatever the case, Valley Christian has provided us with many lasting experiences and lessons learned.

We write our own destiny, and become what we do, but it is only in the giving of oneself that we truly learn how to live.

It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.

Although the long road through this high school experience may be difficult at times, we all understand that at the end of our time together it's not the destination that matters, but the journey it took to get there.

Copyright 2002 Cowles Publishing Company
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.