Page 7 - 1958

Marilyn Campbell, XIII, 1956-57
Tonight, September 6, 1957, is a memorable one for my classmates and my-
self. In September, 1952, we, the graduates of tonight, crossed the tresh- old for the first time, little realizing that this day would ever come. I must express my appreciation of being chosen to give the valedictory address, that
is, to say farewell on behalf of this class to friends, fellow students, and teachers at C.D.C.I.
To you, our teachers, we owe our gratitude for yo~r considerate guidance throughout our years spent here in Coll- ingwood District Collegiate Institute. When we first entered high school, we may have thought your discipline strict,
your rules rigid. In retrospect, we can relive some of the classes when our ears were tuned to the two minute bell rather than to the teacher's voice, or when we waited throughout a compositio~ period for the inspirat- ion which failed to come. Yet, under your patient guida!.ce, much of our learning which you have imparted to us has enriched us while it has not i~ poverished you. For it is said that "he who imparts knowledge to others loses nothing of what he had, while he who reoeives it gains mUch."
But we have not reaohed the end of the path of learning. No longer guided by your wisdom we must search elsewhere for our teachings. True, we are no longer a part of your daily lives; yet, we will always remember what you have done for us. Other students will replaoe us but none who enter or leave will remember you more gratefully than we. In bidding farewell, we wish you the same suocess in shaping other young lives as you have had with us.
Fellow graduates, for the past five years we have journeyed along to- gether on the river of knowledge. Often we were buffeted by rocks or shoals and graduation seemed impossible. All too soon we discover that the river has reached the sea, leaving each one to begin his chosen career.
Tonight, each of us dwells upon fond memories. For the athletic-minded there will always be recolleotions of ribbons, cups, and personal glory (or an oocasional defeat) acquired by our heroes. The more socially-minded students will recall the Friday night parties, the Coke dances, and most of all, the formal dances.
We also dwell on the enjoyment derived from participating in the vari- ous clubs. Although our elders no doubt thought that we placed too much emphasis on sports and social activities, nevertheless, each of us was ob- sessed with the idea that,one day, we would aspire to this end. But the time for parting has come. Let us merely say farewell until we meet again and may God bless each and everyone of you.
At this time it seems fitting that we should extend our profound app- reciation to our parents who have encouraged us, and who have laboured that we might have this golden opportunity. To our friends and neighbours who have gathered here tonight we also extend thanks and a respectful farewell. To fellow students wo owe our allegiance. We bO forth but it is you who remain. Throughout our years spent here, we have worked togeti:ler and have come to know and value your friendship. Now that w~ are leaving, into your hands we surrender the torch. Be it yours to carry, and may the flame for- ever burn brightly in glory and honour of C.l,.C.l.