A Letter To My Longtime Friends XIII: Eleven Years Strong

Dear CGHS Class of 2006 Brethren,

This is your brother and friend Victor. How are you guys? I just want to take this time and write this letter to commemorate our eleventh year anniversary of our high school graduation. It was a glorious moment! It has been 11 years since we graduated from high school. I decided to put a day aside to remember this day and to reminisce and cherish the precious moments and good times we had together. So I am here to remind you all, just in case you forgot. Allow me to take you for a ride on Memory Lane, shall we? Hehehe...

On the day before, we went to a big church called "New Birth Missionary Baptist Church" in Lithonia, Georgia where the late Bishop Eddie L. Long was the senior pastor. He was a nice guy, so he was generous to grant us permission to use his church building to practice our graduation ritual, and our graduation ceremony. The next day in the morning, my brother and I woke up, we showered up, got dressed, grabbed our caps & gowns, and we got in the car, and drove away, and off to our graduation ceremony. But we had to be on time, or else we couldn't walk. I also had to spray on my favorite cologne as what my bus driver gave me as a graduation gift. As my family and I walked to the building, I was so happy that we were gathered together for the last time. We first went into this large room which resembles a large classroom and a small congregation. We were told to "get it out of our systems" since we were excited, so we did! Nothing was holding us back from walking with each other. As we proceed in to the hallway to walk with each other, my mother (who is now deceased) was happy, so she took a picture with us. We then walked together in two straight lines in a row through the middle congregational aisle to the choir stand. We sung two selections, our CGHS Alma Mater "Saints Forever", and an uplifting Gospel song "I Am Healed" by Donald Lawrence. Our names were called in alphabetical order for us to receive our diploma cases. Almost at the end, we tossed our caps in the air, which I consider is a sign on gladness! We then walked with each other out of the church when it was over. And outside, we signed more autographs. Also, pictures were taken, hugs and kisses were given, hands were extended for handshakes, love was shown to each other, gifts were given, and whole lots more. And after all this, we parted ways. Our hearts were filled with joy. Having said that, we were overjoyed! After all this, we went home, and then I took off my church clothes, and changed into my normal everyday clothes. I then went around the corner to my grandparents' house because they were throwing a graduation party for me and my brother, for we graduated from high school together. I tell you, THAT day was the proudest day of my life! The Lord has been with us. He never left us, nor forsook us!

Detuteronomy 31:8 - "And the LORD, he that is that doth go with thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed."

Thank you all for taking your precious time out to read this annual epistle. I just love to do this, since I started writing series of these essays and articles. As usual, stay on top of your game everyday. Don't back down for anyone, not even Satan. I wish you Peace, tranquility, and Many Blessings from God the Father through Jesus Christ, and may the Holy Ghost continue to guide you.

Kindest & Humble Regards,

Victor Kendrick II (Brother Vick)

P.S. Though it has been a long time ever since we parted ways, I still think about you guys everyday. I even pray for you all. You guys have a special place in my heart. I love you guys unconditionally. I am still writing my memoir page by page, and hopefully, it'll get published real soon. I'll keep you posted if I can. One day if the Lord willing, we will unite once more. I know I missed the high school reunion last year, but I was with you guys in spirit. Thank you all, and may Jesus bless you all! Much love!