Bennett High School - Beacon Yearbook (Buffalo, NY)

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SENIORS X

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SAL TATORY In almost any instance we can cite, the greater the distance or length of time between the subject and the observer, the better is the perspective obtained. Our subject, of course, is our high school education, both planned and incidental. Inas- much as we have not yet been separated from 'it, perhaps we are not now fully quali- fied to evaluate our past four years at Bennett objectively. However, since our com- ing graduation is the Hrst of many occasions which will compel us to do so, I shall attempt to summarize the reflections of my class at this time. Although most of us are only beginning to comprehend the true signincance of their part in our lives, we all wish to extend our most sincere thanks to our principal, Mr. Farrar, to the two assistant principals who have ably and amicably guided us, Mr. Walz and Mr. Miller, and especially to our teachers. A personal thank you, I am sure, is also given from the heart of each individual graduate to his parents. The only thanks that these devoted persons really want, however, is the satisfaction of knowing that they have played a part in the development of a good citizen and a well-adjusted man or woman. This can only be given them by our future lives. The benefits in respect to character, experience, and knowledge obtained here at Bennett are too abundant to enumerate now. Our schoolis excellent academic pro- gram, of course, has given us invaluable information and training. Equally important are the experiences we have had in this cosmopolitan institution, through extra- curricular activities and personal contacts, and the strengthening in us of such traits of character as co-operation, understanding, and the appreciation of the rights and opinions of others. With our graduation in a few weeks, the reality of our high school days ends, leaving only the memories. I offer this advice to all prospective graduates: Absorb as many memories as you possibly can of your life here, especially in these few Hnal weeks, for these recollections must serve you for the rest of your lifetimef' Few graduates will not cherish these memories, longing to recall more of both their serious and amusing experiences here. The stories of many of these experiences will be en- deared to us and embellished by the passage of time, as they are retold and relived. Until now, this class has been regarded chieHy as a unit. In these four years, we have achieved a certain degree of unity through close co-operation, but this unity should not be confused with mere uniformity. Allowing for differences in individuals, most of our lives have been similar up to this point. In a few weeks, however, our paths will separate, with each graduate pursuing his own goal. Although we shall probably keep in contact with the close friends we have made here, other classmates will never be seen again. Many acquaintances who have greatly influenced our lives will abruptly drop out of them. Although they will be replaced by others, we cannot help regretting this inevitable result of graduation. As we turn toward the future, most of us realize that high school is only the beginning. Whether we go directly into the world or first to college, there is much more to be learned, particularly in the school of experience. Although we may wonder about the future, when we shall have only ourselves to rely upon, we have every reason to look forward to what is ahead. Broad new horizons of knowledge and opportunity await us in life. Without a doubt, 'gThe best IS yet to bef' Kenneth Kreinheder 14