Wednesday, August 20, 2008 Neri: Notes from a Golden Jubilarian By Nelia G. Neri Eve
Where have all the years gone? This was what 22 of us, 1958 high school graduates of St. Theresa’s College, asked ourselves during the alumnae homecoming last July 26. No, we didn’t feel “that old,” the reason why we couldn’t fully grasp the fact that indeed 50 years have passed since that balmy day in March when our class (a total of 68 in two sections) proudly stood onstage, diplomas in hand, eyes shining bright with excitement.
Only a third of the class came for the golden jubilee; some had to beg off because of more pressing concerns, while a few had completely lost touch with us. On the other hand, 13 of our former classmates have gone on to eternal life.
Bonding time for our group began during the dance practices. Can you imagine the struggle we went through trying to learn a simple and sedate Chinese dance? Definite signs that aging and arthritis have crept in! Though we don’t feel “that old,” our bodies don’t feel “that young” either!
Everything came to a head on homecoming week when our classmates from other places arrived.
We had a dizzying series of activites which left us quite tired—sightseeing, museum hopping, parties, nights out, beach forays including an overnight stay in Plantation Bay (thanks to our good friend Manny G.), and more. However, the bottom line was that we were having a blast!
We were giddy young girls once again enjoying each other’s company, and laughing ourselves silly.
Homecoming day found us with that special golden glow on our faces; not because we were golden jubilarians wearing blouses in gold brocade, but because of heightened emotions (anxious, nervous and terrified).
Why, it had been ages since we were on stage in the dear old auditorium and we were about to present a dance number. It was hot, as in oven-hot, but we managed to keep our cool, and in the end, acquitted ourselves creditably for our Chinese Fan Dance.
We felt like superstars when all was said and done. The needless apprehension was over and there was only that feeling of euphoria. Such a priceless feel!
Turning gold as a Theresian was a milestone and a new addition to my trove of STC memories. These happy memories count among the timeless treasures in my mind.
