Hello, everyone! I really appreciate the exuberance shared in posts about all the wonderful times various ones had at Tempe High. I just want to say that there's also room--without being a drag or raining on anybody's parade--to acknowledge that others of us had a really rough time at Tempe High, whether as outcasts or loners or targets of hatred or prejudice or just being invisible or totally misunderstood or lost or unable to escape a crazy home life even at school. In my case, for instance, it's only now, with this upcoming 45th reunion, that I have healed enough from the trauma of my upbringing and its aftermath, to feel confident to even attend this kind of gathering, which can really put one's self-esteem to the test. Am interested in hearing other's thoughts on this.
While we didn't know each other while at THS, I look forward to meeting you at our 45th Reunion. I had a great time in my years there but I know for certain that wasn't the case for everyone, including some of my siblings.
Thank you for making a great point, Keven. We'd love to have ALL of the Class of '69 classmates attend our 45th Reunion, regardless of how they experienced those years. I think it's safe to say, we're all very different people than we were then.
Looking forward to meeting you in October.
Keven:
Can I ask why your not in the yearbook ? I, too, have difficulty any encounter with you. I shall look forward to meeting you.
Congrats on finally breaking the chains of torment that you seem to have grown up with !
What an important message Keven. I applaud you for having the courage and grace to post your message on the web site. I know there must be others who would agree. I think we have all grown up enough to be honest, and compassionate/kind to each other. Life is such a journey. Glad yours has come to a better place.
I remember you as being tall & smart, not a geek! However, it's how we remember ourselves that probably has the greatest impact on who we become.
Sure hope you & your wife can make the reunion, Elson.
Well said, Keven. It was also about perception, because I thought you were funny and smart and I was jealous because Sam liked you! Terry Price might have said it best - 'We were all little wounded islands of hurt walking around.' Hope to see you at the reunion.
