Central High School - Cog N Pen Yearbook (Newark, NJ)

Page 9 text:

yore papos در‎ s s کر سر‎ TAT (li IN RETROSPECT Whatever we become—wherever we are—we shall always look with affectionate eyes on our Alma Mater. She has had us in her care for four happy years—to her must go a great share of the credit for the success we hope to attain in later life. We, who came here four years ago as children, are emerging as young men and women standing on the very threshold of life. “The social life, the pleas- ant companionship of friends, the ever friendly ad- vice and aid of our teachers have helped not only to develop our minds, but have moulded our characters as well. And now that the time has come for us to depart and take our places in the world, with a smile on our lips, and a tear in our eye, do we say “Central, adieu!” VR HL “KIDDING” YOURSELF Among the many slang expressions heard about the modern American school there are a few which are so appropriate for the thought expressed that the idea cannot be completely expressed in any other words. Among these latter is the expression, “kid- ding” oneself. All of us have heard this used over and over again, and all of us are afflicted to a greater or less degree with this disease, and there are many chronic cases. Some “kid” themselves that they are the smartest in the class; others “kid” themselves that they are the par excellence when it comes to dancing; some think they are so good looking that the teacher simply must give them an eight. Even the present writer is “kidding” himself. He “kids” himself that he is not “kidding”” himself; and there are many more. The great humorists (you know them), the class pests, the female boys and vice versa, the great gymnasts; all are “kidding” themselves. There is one type of “kidding yourself” that is highly commendable, that type which makes us stand up against odds. “The kind the vastly inferior foot- ball team practices when it goes up against a greatly superior force resolved to win. This type is a valu- able asset to anyone, but it cannot be designated by a slang phrase. It is on a much higher plane; we call it self-confidence. And even this, if carried to extreme, is bad and becomes overconfidence. Seniors, as we go through life we will find many people who are “kidding” themselves. “They never long command our respect, they never reach success; don't be one of them. “When you find yourself nurs- ing some pretty vanity say “Pshaw, I'm kidding my- self,” and then stop it. Be confident and not over- conhdent. Remember—don't “kid” yourself.