University of Massachusetts Amherst - Index Yearbook (Amherst, MA)

Page 17 text:

E will omit the trite information usually given in writ- T ings of this nature, which is that, another year has passed away, the earth has again completed an annual circuit about the sun, and other similar astronomical truths, expressed in language more highly poetical than the above. Our readers are undoubtedly tolerably well aware ot facts such as these. And, too, need we inform you that we are seniors? Who does not know it ? Who does not observe the easy-sitting dignity, the consciousness of the superiority brought about by a three years ' experience of college life, the studious sedateness of our manners, and the hirsute pre- cursors of a fast coming manhood? Ah yes, the truth can but be apparent to everyone, and yet we ourselves have almost to be forced to the realization of our changed position and responsibilities. We have been metamorphosed in two re- spects, in our outward life and in our inward life. The outward change came naturally, gradually, unconsciously ; it is the inward transformation to the conception of which we are obliged to educate ourselves, and in order to live in accordance with which we are compelled to train our thoughts and to modify our actions. May we successfully strive to be the leaders and mentors of the college in all its workings, to guide it rightly to the full attainment of its own highest good, with honor to ourselves and our class. What encour- agement does our past history give to aid us in the work? Does not the record of our deeds give assurance that, if we are true to ourselves, we cannot fail ? We feel that it does. But shall we rest conceitedly upon the glory of our previous achievements? Let us rather continue onward and upward, until, at the end, complete satisfaction with ourselves, and